Functions
Steam boilers allow people to use stored energy, which travels from the source of fuel to the water contained in the boiler and then on to the final intended purpose. Steam boilers work by heating water to the boiling point. Once the water begins to produce steam, the steam can then be used as energy for the intended function. For example, if the steam is being used to power a train, then the steam travels through pipes to the engine, when the steam is turned into energy.
Types
In addition to regular steam boilers, there also exists a variety known as the superheated steam boiler. This type of boiler works like its regular counterpart. However, instead of converting the steam into energy once the water reaches its boiling point, the superheated steam boiler uses a device called a superheater to further add heat to the steam. The final result is steam that has been heated at a much higher temperature than normal. There are drawbacks to using steam that has been superheated. If a leak occurs, safety becomes an issue because of the high temperature and high pressure at which the steam is kept. It can cause serious harm to anyone present during a leak.
