Steam boilers are basic structures that heat water, which creates steam. Depending on the steam boiler's purpose, this steam can be used to heat a structure or power an engine. There are various types of steam boilers and functions.
Steam Boiler Types
Generally, steam boilers break down into two categories. There is a "closed" system steam boiler in which the unused steam, which has now condensed, is recycled back into the system and reheated for further use. If you are concerned about contamination, you can obtain an "open" system steam boiler, in which the steam boiler evacuates the unused condensed liquid out of the system. This may require a continuous flow of water to the boiler.
Firetube and Watertube
Once you have determined if you are going to develop a "closed" or "open" steam boiler, you should determine if you are using a "firetube" or "watertube" steam boiler. A firetube steam boiler is the most common. It is a more complicated construction because it involves an external shell with tubes of water in the interior. Heated gas passes through the core of the firetube and heats the internal water tubes, creating steam. That steam is then released from the firetube steam boiler. The watertube steam boiler is a bit more basic and involves a metal tube that stands vertical above a heating source. The water sits inside the tube and is heated until it begins to steam. The watertube releases the steam at the top of the metal vessel. The watertube is as simpler construction and may be more advantageous.
Water Levels
To further educate yourself about steam boilers, you must be cognizant of the water levels in the steam boilers. Most boilers either stand vertically or sit horizontally and have a certain area of water surface to release the steam. Typically, a steam boiler will be self-regulating, allowing for the appropriate steam to release as more water pumps in from an external source. Nonetheless, use of a commercial grade steam boiler requires consistent monitoring of the water levels. If it operates without enough water, it can cause extensive damage to the boiler and may even lead to an explosion.
Typically, you can monitor a steam boiler with its glass gauge, which is clearly visible in front of the steam boiler. Most steam boilers have a pre-set value for its temperature, and if you notice that the steam boiler is exceeding this temperature, there is insufficient water in the steam boiler.
