Boiler Basics

Hot water is a necessity that is often taken for granted, especially in modern homes. Everyone benefits from hot water, which is why so many homes have a boiler installed. These machines are also used in industries and for a number of other applications.

Function

Boilers are large containers that hold water or another liquid inside. An attached heater boils this liquid, and the hot water or water vapor is then released through a series of valves and pipes.

Significance

Boilers are important for giving hot water to a building, heat in general to come older buildings, and for providing steam power for locomotion engines, like those in trains.

Fuel

Most boilers out there use some kind of combustion fuel for heat, such as coal, wood, or natural gas. Newer boilers rely on electric heaters.

Materials

Older boilers are traditionally made of wrought iron, while newer ones are composed of steel. Copper is also used in smaller boilers or small boiler parts because it can withstand heat and is easily malleable.

Safety

There have been safety issues with boilers for years now. Poorly constructed ones can easily burst when water is heated, and if the boiler heats with no water inside, it can explode once cool water is added.