Difference Between Boiler Mountings and Accessories

Published: 23 Jul 2025

Boilers are the heart of many industrial operations and heating systems, whose efficiency and safety depend heavily on two important sets of components: boiler mountings and boiler accessories. While both play critical roles, they serve very different purposes. It’s important to understand the difference between the two for anyone working in boiler design, maintenance, or operation.

In this article, we’ll break down the difference between boiler mountings and accessories, how each contributes to boiler performance, and why they matter in real-world applications.

Boiler Mountings vs Accessories: Key Differences

Boiler Mountings

These are fundamental components for maintaining boiler operations safely and stably. They regulate pressure, monitor water levels, and control steam flow to prevent accidents and ensure smooth operations.
Without them, a boiler cannot run safely and would pose serious operational hazards.
They’re mounted directly on the boiler shell or drum; examples include safety valves and pressure gauges.
They monitor and control internal parameters like the water level and pressure inside the boiler.
They do not enhance boiler output; instead, they ensure safe functioning.
They are specifically designed for safety—for example, fusible plugs prevent overheating, while blow-off cocks help remove sludge.
These components typically include a pressure gauge, safety valve, water level indicator, stop valve, fusible plug, and blow-off cock.
A boiler cannot operate without them; they are mandatory for startup and all regulation.
Mountings are generally regulatory. They control and safeguard.
Typically installed during the boiler’s manufacturing phase.
These components protect not only the boiler but also its operators.
They are usually included in the initial boiler setup as an essential part of the system.

Boiler Accessories

They are used to improve the boiler’s overall efficiency and performance by recovering heat, boosting steam generation, or enhancing combustion.
They are optional; a boiler can still function without them, but at reduced efficiency.
They are installed externally, along the piping or around the boiler system—such as economizers or superheaters.
These components address external fluid conditions, such as feed water temperature and air intake.
They directly improve fuel economy, thermal efficiency, and steam output.
They are focused on performance, and not directly on safety.
These include devices such as the economizer, air preheater, superheater, steam separator, injector, and feed pump.
A boiler can operate without them, but it won’t be as energy-efficient.
They serve as enhancement tools for optimizing thermal energy usage.
They can be added later based on system upgrades or efficiency needs.
They help improve fuel economy and thermal performance.
These components are typically an additional investment based on performance goals.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between boiler mountings and accessories is key to efficient boiler operation. Mountings are essential for safe operation. Essentially, they serve as the boiler’s protective gear. Accessories, on the other hand, act as performance boosters—optional but extremely helpful in reducing energy costs and enhancing output.

Whether you’re a plant engineer, a mechanical student, or a boiler technician, knowing which components are mandatory and which are optional can help you make better operational decisions.