Fire-tube / smoke-tube boilers

Water-tube boilers 

Water-tube boilers are commonly used on vessels requiring higher steam capacity or higher operating pressures. In this design, water flows through tubes that are heated externally by combustion gases.

This configuration allows for faster steam generation and improved performance in high-demand applications

Applications in the maritime industry   

Water-tube boilers are often found on: 

  • LNG carriers 
  • Large tankers 
  • Offshore installations 
  • Vessels with high steam demand 

Due to their more complex design, water-tube boilers require specialised knowledge during inspection and repair.

Typical operational challenges  

Common issues include: 

  • Tube overheating and failure 
  • Scaling or contamination on water-side surfaces 
  • Burner performance issues 
  • Control system instability 

These challenges can impact steam production and increase operational risk if not addressed 
early. 

Our expertise  

Global Boiler Services supports water-tube boilers with: 

  • Pressure part inspection and repair 
  • Tube replacement and fabrication 
  • Performance optimisation 
  • Burner tuning and automation upgrades 

Our engineers work closely with vessel crews to ensure safe and efficient operation of water-tube boiler systems. 

Water-tube boilers

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