What Are The Different Types of Commercial Boiler Systems?
Commercial boiler systems vary in size, intensity, and heat sources, so it can be quite confusing trying to figure out which one you should get for your facility. Fortunately, we’re here to help. Read on to learn more about the types of commercial boiler systems and their ideal uses.
Fire Tube Boiler
Fire tube boilers are one of the oldest types of boilers. In this design, hot gases travel from the heating source through tubes that circulate through a water-filled chamber. Because of their relatively simple design, fire tube boilers are more affordable and easier to operate. They’re ideal for medium to low-pressure applications.
Within the category of fire tube boilers are two subsets based on the furnace’s location.
Fire tube boilers with external furnaces include:
- Horizontal return tubular fire tube boilers
- Compact fire tube boilers
- Firebox boilers
Fire tube boilers with internal furnaces include:
- Vertical tubular fire tube boilers
- Horizontal tubular fire tube boilers
Fire tube boilers also come in either a dry-back design or a wet-back design. A wet-back boiler means the end closure is cooled by water, whereas a dry-back boiler isn’t cooled by water.
Water Tube Boiler
Water tube boilers work opposite of fire tube boilers and are highly efficient. In this design, the heat source is on the outside and water is inside the tubes. Water tube boilers are ideal for high-pressure applications and those with variable load requirements.
Electric Steam Boiler
Electric steam boilers environmentally-friendly and efficient as they don’t produce emissions, but operating them can come at a high premium. Electric steam boilers are ideal for smaller operations like hospitals, laundries, and food processing facilities.
Boiler Fuel Types
Boilers are also categorized by their source of fuel. The most common types of fuel used in commercial boiler systems are:
- Biomass: wood chips, corn husks, and other combustible plan substances
- Coal: crushed coal is more efficient than clumps
- Gas: natural gas
- Oil: diesel, gasoline, and other petroleum-based fuels
Experts in Commercial Boiler Systems
If you’re considering a commercial boiler for your facility, contact Heinz Mechanical Industries. We have a wide selection of boilers. Our contractors can install and maintain your commercial boiler system. We work closely with healthcare, education, government, and industrial facilities. So give us a call today to discuss your project.
