The replacement of a $300,000 boiler part should keep hot water flowing to NIU buildings, officials said.

A deaerator, essential to the normal operation of NIU’s boiler system currently is being replaced after inspectors discovered holes in its inner plate last year.

The component is one of two used at the East Heating Plant to remove oxygen from water in the university’s steam heating system. Removal of oxygen prevents system corrosion.

NIU Project Manager Conrad Miller said the heating system depends on steam heat produced from the passage of water through large boilers.

Once inside the boilers, the water is run over heating coils and produces enough steam to heat all university facilities, including the residence halls.

“Deaerators are an essential item for the life of the boiler system,” said Atique Ahmed, supervisor of the deaerator replacement.

He said the deaerators undergo annual inspection by the State Fire Marshall and representatives of university insurance. The inspections revealed deficiencies in both deaerators.

While the west deaerator currently is being replaced, the east deaerator was replaced last November for approximately $300,000.

Ahmed explained that holes in the deaerators are a major safety concern because each one is pressurized up to 15 pounds per square inch.

A deaerator in good condition relieves excess pressure through a release valve, but holes in the inner plate could fragment and pose a safety hazard.

“It is very important to replace them for the safety of our workers,” Ahmed said.

Engineering consultants from the firm of Brown, Davis and Mullens are in charge of the contracting and specifications for the deaerator, which have an estimated life span of 25 to 30 years.