A boiler is a closed vessel in which water or other fluid is heated under pressure for generating steam or other hot fluids.
When sizing a boiler you must have enough capacity to handle the maximum hourly load of the system. You should always install a boiler with future expansion in mind. More than one may be required depending how critical it is for continuous service during shutdown and maintenance. All boilers should be equipped with fully automatic controls to provide adequate safety at all times. All equipment in the system should be rated at least to the maximum allowable working pressure. Equipment and controls should meet if not exceed ASME, UA, local, state and all applicable codes.
Boilers require fresh air and ventilation and must be installed in areas where both can be attained. When in confined rooms permanent openings for air transfer should be provided. Vents and draft creating equipment may be needed to achieve proper movement. The venting system should be wired to the boiler to assure proper air when the boiler is fired up. At least two doors at a minimum are recommended for ingress and egress to insure proper safety for personnel.
Do not use galvanized pipe or fittings on any of the boiler piping: feed, steam, or water lines. A proper blowdown system must be provided for safety.
When boilers are not used for periods of time, such as seasonal or storage in freezing weather the system should be drained so not to damage the equipment.
Hot Water Boiler
A hot water boiler is a pressure vessel, fired or unfired, used to heat water. They can be classified by: low pressure boiler, high pressure or temperature power boiler, or miniature boiler depending on the various codes.
Steam Boiler
A steam boiler is a closed pressure vessel, fired or unfired, used to create steam by applying heat. They can be classified by: low pressure boiler, high pressure or power boiler, small power boiler or miniature boiler depending on the various codes.
Water Heater
A water heater is designed to heat supply water and has automatic controls to limit the temperature to a maximum of 210°.
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