Boiler Types: Advantages and Disadvantages By: Dane Haystead Objective: To inform the public about the pros and cons of different types of boilers.

Types of Boilers Shell boilers Water-tube boilers

Shell Boilers Advantages: Able to purchase whole plant as package. Able to build up a reserve of energy Construction is straight forward One furnace tube and burner Disadvantages: Only kg/h steam output Large diameter cylinders limit pressure

Water-tube Boilers Advantages: Small water content Small diameter tubes and steam drum Able to produce superheated steam Customizable design (flexibility) Disadvantages: More complex construction Complex control systems required

Conclusion Shell boilers are for smaller scale applications than water-tube boilers Only need water-tube boilers when a high pressure or temperature is required (ie. Power stations) References are available upon request