Which type of boiler is commonly used in power engineering?

The fire-tube boiler is commonly used in power engineering due to its efficient design and operational reliability. In a fire-tube boiler, hot gases from the combustion process pass through tubes that are surrounded by water. This design allows for effective heat transfer from the hot gases to the water, which generates steam. Fire-tube boilers are known for their simplicity, ease of operation, and lower initial cost compared to other types, making them a popular choice for various industrial applications, including power generation. They are particularly favored for their capability to provide a steady supply of steam, which is essential in many power engineering processes.

Other types listed serve different purposes or are less common for large-scale power generation. Electric boilers, while useful for specific applications, are typically not used for large power production due to their reliance on electricity rather than a combustion process. Heat exchangers are critical components in various systems but are not themselves boilers; they facilitate heat transfer rather than producing steam for power generation. Steam generators, while relevant, are often more specialized than fire-tube boilers and may refer to different types of equipment, including water-tube boilers or specific types of generators suited for certain tasks. Thus, the fire-tube boiler stands out for its broad application and established reputation in