Definition

Noun: A steam boiler is a sealed vessel or container in which water is heated to produce steam. This steam is then used for various purposes, such as power generation, heating systems, or industrial processes.

Usage

The term "steam boiler" is used to describe the specific piece of equipment that generates steam. It is a compound noun. * The factory's power plant relies on a large steam boiler. * Regular maintenance is crucial for the safe operation of a steam boiler.

Examples

• The locomotive's steam boiler provided the power to drive the pistons.
• Before modern heating, many buildings were warmed by radiators connected to a central steam boiler.
• The engineer checked the pressure gauge on the steam boiler.

Advanced Usage

• "Boiler" as shorthand: In many technical and industrial contexts, the word "boiler" alone is commonly understood to mean "steam boiler."
  • The boiler room houses the main heating equipment for the complex.

Variants and Related Words

• Boiler (n): A common shortened form of "steam boiler."
• Steam generator (n): A term sometimes used interchangeably with "steam boiler," though it can imply a more modern or specific type of unit.
• Fire-tube boiler (n): A type of steam boiler where hot gases pass through tubes running through a sealed container of water.
• Water-tube boiler (n): A type of steam boiler where water flows inside tubes that are heated externally by hot gases.

Synonyms

• Steam generator: A device that produces steam.
• (Steam) Vessel: A general term for a container, often used in technical specifications for boilers.

Related Idioms or Phrases

• Under pressure: While not exclusive to boilers, this idiom originates from the high-pressure conditions inside a steam boiler. It describes a state of stress or urgency.
  • The team has been working under a lot of pressure to meet the deadline.

Noun

1. sealed vessel where water is converted to steam