What are the two main types of boilers used in industry?

The two main types of boilers used in industry are fire-tube boilers and water-tube boilers. Fire-tube boilers consist of a pressurized shell filled with water, in which combustion gases pass through tubes that are submerged in the water. This design allows for efficient heat transfer from the gases to the water, generating steam for various industrial processes.

In contrast, water-tube boilers operate by passing water through tubes that are heated by combustion gases on the outside of the tubes. This method allows for higher pressure and temperature operations, making water-tube boilers more suitable for large industrial applications where high efficiency and rapid steam generation are necessary.

Understanding the distinction between these two types of boilers is important for boilermakers as it influences the choice of boiler based on application, efficiency, and safety considerations in industrial settings.