Boiler design

Beyond boiler characteristics, other parameters are necessary to specify the best system.
Space constraints, space purpose, redundancy requirements and other factors affect the design process.
The best boiler system may incorporate multiple smaller boilers to handle the load instead of a larger one.

The main function of a boiler is to heat water to generate steam.
Steam produced in a boiler can be used for a variety of purposes including:

Sections of a steam locomotive showing the many fire-tubes which carry the hot gases of the fire through the boiler to heat the water and so create steam.
Boiler design is the process of designing boilers used for various purposes.
The main function of a boiler is to heat water to generate steam.

Large buildings normally use boiler plants for their space heating needs: