A. It is entirely self-contained, generates steam very rapidly, is economical in space, and needs no elaborate foundation.
Q. What disadvantages has the locomotive or fire box boiler?
A. Expensive first cost, and difficulty in cleaning, especially where impure feed water is used.
RETURN FLUE BOILER.
Q. Describe the construction of a Return Flue Boiler?
A. It has a cylindrical shell, with heads riveted at each end, in which are placed a large main flue, and a number of small flues or tubes, open at both ends. The top row of flues is placed below the water line. One end of the main flue is used for the fire box, into which the fuel is thrown through door at back end and the products of combustion pass forward through this main flue to an ample smoke box in front end, and return through the smaller flues or tubes to smoke box at rear end, which is connected to the smoke stack. They are generally supplied with steam dome and mud drum, and are used extensively in the construction of traction engines where straw is used for fuel. They are also furnished with several hand-holes placed in proper places for cleaning the boiler.
Sectional View J. I. Case Return Flue Boiler.
Q. What are the advantages of this style of boiler?
A. Large heating surface, easily repaired and cleaned, simplicity of construction and compactness.