What type of foundation supports bottom supported boilers?

Bottom-supported boilers require a solid and stable foundation to accommodate their weight and operational stresses. Concrete foundations are commonly used for this purpose because they provide the necessary strength and durability to support heavy equipment. Concrete can be designed to withstand high pressures and is resistant to various environmental factors, making it an ideal choice for applications involving boilers.

A concrete foundation also helps in distributing the weight of the boiler evenly across a larger area, reducing the risk of settling or shifting over time. This stability is crucial for the safe operation of the boiler, ensuring that it functions reliably without the risk of mechanical failure caused by an inadequate foundation.

Other types of foundations, such as wooden foundations, may not provide the required strength and longevity, especially in the presence of moisture or heat. Metal beams could be used in certain boiler support applications but are typically not the primary choice for standalone support. A gravel base, while useful for drainage, lacks the structural integrity necessary for directly supporting the weight of a boiler. Thus, concrete foundations are the preferred and most reliable option for bottom-supported boilers.