Advantages and Limitations of Babcock and Wilcox Boiler
Read: Construction and working of Babcock and Wilcox boiler
Advantages and application of Babcock and Wilcox boiler
- The draught loss of Babcock and Wilcox boiler is minimum
- Very high steam generation capacity 20,000 to 40,000 kg/hr
- Inspection during operation is possible.
- Defective tubes can replace readily.
- All portion of Babcock and Wilcox boiler is accessible to inspection, cleaning, and repairing.
- Rapid circulation of water can be made.
- Very quick steaming. This boiler has ability to raise the temperature of water quickly, so they are suitable were to meet sudden demands.
- The water tube and drum are not rigidly connected to the brick wall, which enables the free expansion and contraction during thermal cycle.
- It can deliver dry steam of high capacity even under poor feed water supply when compared to other boilers.
- The efficiency of 60 to 80%
- Less floor area required per unit power when compared to fire tube boiler.
Disadvantages of Babcock and Wilcox boiler
- The water used in this boiler must be free from impurity and sedimentary particle. Water treatment is necessary.
- Fouling of the tube may cause overheating and bursting of tubes.
- Should keep correct water level inside the drum. A failure of water supply for even a short period cause a large problem related to overheating.