Question

What is the advantage of having smaller ratio of water to steam space?

(a) Steam can be generated at a faster even if the boiler is cold

(b) Increases the rate of evaporation

(c) Water is made cyclic, i.e., from boiler drum to water tube and back to drum

(d) Helps in mobilizing the boiler

This question was addressed to me in an interview for job.

Question is from Boiler Classification topic in chapter Steam Generators & Accessories of Energy Engineering

Answer 1

The correct choice is (a) Steam can be generated at a faster even if the boiler is cold

The best I can explain: Rate of evaporation is more as area of heating surface is more due to presence of large small diameter tubes. Due to that smaller water ratio is allowed to steam space where in the steam can be generated as a faster rate even if the boiler is cold. As the rate of evaporation is more, it is preferred in steam power plants for power generation.