Locomotive boiler steaming rate State whether the following is correct: A locomotive boiler is designed to produce steam at a very high rate to meet rapid traction demands.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Yes

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Locomotive boilers powered rail transport for generations. Their duty cycle involves frequent acceleration, gradients, and varying load. To respond quickly, these boilers are optimized for high rates of steam generation rather than the very highest pressures seen in stationary water-tube units.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Horizontal, multi-tubular, fire-tube design with large grate area and long tube-bank heating surface.
  • Use of exhaust steam blast to induce strong draft through the firebed.
  • Coal or oil firing with manual or mechanical stoking.


Concept / Approach:
Large heating surface from numerous small tubes, a spacious firebox, and powerful induced draft via the blast pipe allow high combustion rates. The design emphasizes rapid steam-raising capability and steady supply under fluctuating demand, which is precisely what “very high rate” refers to (kg of steam per hour per unit of shell volume).


Step-by-Step Solution:
Blast pipe ejects exhaust steam up the chimney, creating strong draft.High draft supports intense combustion on the grate.Many fire tubes provide ample heating surface for quick heat transfer to water.Result: high steam generation rate suitable for traction duty.


Verification / Alternative check:
Historical performance figures show large locomotives producing many tons of steam per hour, far higher steaming rates per unit size than modest stationary fire-tube boilers.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Superheaters, feedwater heaters, or fuel type can enhance performance but are not prerequisites for high steaming rate; the core design and draft system enable it.


Common Pitfalls:
Equating “high rate” with “high pressure”—locomotives prioritize rate and responsiveness over extreme pressures.


Final Answer:
Yes

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