Arkansas Boiler Operator Practice Exam

In a fire tube boiler, where do the heat and gases of combustion pass?

1. Through the water in the tank

2. Outside of the boiler

3. Through the tubes

4. Through the tank walls

The correct answer is: Through the tubes

The correct answer highlights the operational principle of a fire tube boiler, where the heat and gases of combustion are directed through the tubes that are immersed in water. In this setup, the combustion gases flow inside the tubes, transferring heat to the surrounding water, which generates steam or hot water. This configuration allows for efficient heat transfer and utilizes the surface area of the tubes to maximize contact with the water, making it an effective system for producing steam. Understanding that the heat travels through the tubes is fundamental to grasping how fire tube boilers function, emphasizing their design for efficient thermal exchange. The other options do not align with the operational characteristics of a fire tube boiler; for instance, the water in the tank does not have gases passing through it, nor do the gases move outside the boiler or through the tank walls. This knowledge is essential for anyone operating or maintaining a fire tube boiler in order to ensure proper functionality and safety.