What Is a Natural Circulation Waste Heat Boiler with Steam Drum?

A natural circulation waste heat boiler utilizes the density difference between water and steam to circulate water naturally without mechanical pumps. A steam drum is used to separate steam from the water-steam mixture, producing saturated steam.

Key Features:

• Uses natural circulation—no external pump required

• Provides saturated steam

• Designed for stable and continuous operation

• Ideal for medium- to low-pressure applications

• Efficient in recovering heat from high-temperature exhaust gases

Main Advantages:

• Low operating cost and simple maintenance

• High reliability and safety

• Best suited for processes requiring steady saturated steam, such as gas turbine exhaust recovery or furnace waste heat recovery

What Is a Waste Heat Boiler with Superheater?

A waste heat boiler with superheater includes an additional heat exchange section (superheater) that heats the saturated steam from the steam drum into superheated steam. This is crucial in systems where high steam enthalpy and efficiency are required—such as in power generation.

Key Features:

• Delivers superheated steam, typically at 300–500°C or more

• Suitable for high-pressure and high-temperature applications

• Can be used in combined heat and power (CHP) systems

• Multiple-stage temperature control available

Main Advantages:

• Improves overall thermal efficiency of the system

• Provides high-quality steam required by steam turbines or chemical processes

• More adaptable to varying thermal loads with precise temperature control

Typical Application Scenarios

Natural Circulation Waste Heat Boiler with Steam Drum:

• Heat recovery from steel sintering machines

• Waste heat utilization from cement kilns

• Exhaust recovery from gas turbines or furnaces

• Industrial saturated steam or hot water supply

Waste Heat Boiler with Superheater:

• Waste-to-energy (WTE) power generation

• Refinery or petrochemical high-temperature systems

• Steam turbines in power plants

• Industrial processes requiring superheated steam

How to Choose the Right Type?

When selecting the appropriate waste heat boiler, consider the following:

1. Temperature and quality of exhaust gas – Higher temperature sources favor systems with superheaters.

2. Steam usage – For power generation or equipment drive, superheated steam is essential.

3. Cost and budget – Natural circulation boilers are more cost-effective and easier to maintain.

4. Operational stability – Simpler natural circulation systems offer better long-term reliability.

5. Steam parameters – Match your required steam pressure and temperature with boiler capability.

Conclusion: Which Waste Heat Boiler Is Right for You?

Both types of waste heat boilers have their place in energy recovery systems. Your ideal choice depends on your process requirements, steam usage, and budget constraints. At Boyu, we provide customized waste heat boiler solutions tailored to your specific needs—ensuring optimal performance, safety, and efficiency.