Which of the following are the two main types of steam boilers?

The two main types of steam boilers are fire-tube and water-tube boilers, which are fundamentally distinguished by their design and the way they circulate water and steam.

In a fire-tube boiler, hot gases from combustion pass through tubes that are surrounded by water. This configuration allows for efficient heat transfer to the water, leading to steam creation. Fire-tube boilers are generally simpler in design and are often used in smaller applications or where limited steam generation is required.

Conversely, in a water-tube boiler, water flows through tubes that are surrounded by hot combustion gases. This design allows for higher pressures and temperatures, making water-tube boilers suitable for larger applications and industrial settings. They are typically more efficient and have quicker response times in terms of steam production.

Understanding the differences between these two types of boilers is critical for power engineers, as the choice of boiler impacts system efficiency, safety, and operational capabilities in various settings.