Question 251Steam Plants - 1st Asst/Chief

The correct answer is B) insufficient condensate flow. The air ejector condenser vent is designed to release any non-condensable gases, such as air, that accumulate in the condenser. Insufficient condensate flow through the condenser can cause the temperature of the condensate to remain high, leading to incomplete condensation and the release of vapor through the vent. This indicates that the condensate flow is not adequate to properly cool and condense the steam passing through the condenser. The other options are incorrect because low condensate temperature (A) would not cause venting, excessive condensate pump speed (C) would increase flow, and excess makeup feed (D) would not directly impact the condenser operation.