How is a Boiler Made?

A closed vessel which is used to heat fluids (more commonly water) is what is known as a boiler. The fluid normally exists in the boiler so that it can be used in heating applications or various processes such as generation of power, sanitation or even cooking.

Material used in the making of a boiler

A boiler has got a pressure vessel which is usually made from alloy steel/ conventionally made from wrought iron. The boiler code from ASME virtually prohibits the use of stainless steel in the modern boilers wetted parts and so, you will mostly find the stainless steel in the parts of the boiler which will not get exposed to the boilers liquid water. However, in the models that are live stream, you will find that brass or copper has been used and it is because these two materials can be easily fabricated when it comes to boilers that are of smaller sizes.

In the past, steam locomotive fireboxes wee made of copper because of its thermal conductivity which is high and also because it has better formability. But in the modern times, and with the current economic hardships; copper is not a favourite to use because of its high price and therefore, many find buying it to be a choice that is uneconomical thus go for cheaper substitutes like steel.

The wrought iron of the highest grade, which would be obtained from ironwork specialists like Cleator Moor (UK), was much used in the Victorian age in making boilers. But the design practise in the 20th century move to the use of steel instead.

Steps in making a boiler

Now, you can have your own DIY boiler by just following the below give steps:

1) On the drums ends, cut central holes in such a way the pipe (which is about 150mm) will snugly fit through. Push it into the drum then braise, weld or solder it in place. Also make sure that the joints (especially the bottom) are tight enough not to let any water through. The pipe acts as the chimney and the drum as the vessel/boiler.

2) On the water heaters top, measure then have a hole cut which shall fit the pipe which has got a J-shape then seal it using either of the aforementioned ways. This is the pipe for pressure release and without it; your boiler will not work or might turn into a bomb with severe consequences.

3) Have two holes cut at the boilers bottom (to act as outlets or inlets) then braise, weld or insert then to their place. You can alternatively have the top with a hole cut so that you can be pouring water from there. But remember that you will still need an outlet at the boilers bottom so a tap would do.

4) With another topless cylinder that is 300mm high, you then cut a rectangular bottom hole and it is where you will have your fire fed with fuels and also remove any accumulating ash.

5) Take your drum and have it positioned at the topless cylinders top then braise or weld to hold in place.

6) Have the drum filled with water, light a fire at the bottom then wait for the water to heat but remember to keep the fire burning until the water has been heated.

The above mentioned is how you can make a DIY water boiler.