Monotube steam generator

Herreshoff steam generator in a Peruvian torpedo boat of 1879

A Monotube steam generator is a type of steam generator consisting of a single tube, usually in a multi-layer spiral, that forms a Once Through Steam Generator (OTSG). The first of these was the Herreshoff steam generator of 1873.^[1]

Principles

For the sake of efficiency, it is desirable to minimise the steam content of the generator. Heat can then be transferred efficiently into liquid water, rather than into low-density steam. Monotube steam generators may either boil gradually along their length, usually pumped circulation systems,^[2] but where this boiling does not disrupt the circulation. Otherwise they can use the Benson supercritical system, where the pressure is sufficient to prevent boiling (within the heated volume) altogether.^[3]

Examples

White steam car steam generator

Examples of Monotube steam generators include:

• industrial steam generators ^[4]
• the water-tube boilers of the monotube type used in steam cars, such as:
  • AMC
  • Doble
  • Gardner-Serpollet
  • Locomobile Company of America
  • White, US patent 659,837 of 1900 ^[5]

Flash boilers

A Flash boiler is a particular type of low-water-content monotube boiler. Modern use is confined to model steam boats but, historically, flash boilers were used in Gardner-Serpollet steam cars.

See also

• List of boiler types, by manufacturer
• Steam generator (boiler)
• Steam generator (railroad)

References

1. Light Steam Power XXIV (3): 157–159. July–September 1975. Missing or empty |title= (help)
2. Newest on Process Equipments (2012-11-25). "Boilers circulation systems: natural circulation and forced circulation". Enggcyclopedia. Retrieved 2012-12-02.
3. http://www.babcock.com/library/pdf/br-1658.pdf
4. Clayton Thermal Products UK - Steam Generators Principle of Operation
5. http://whitesteamcar.com/White_Steam_Car_Registry/Patents_files/Steam%20Generator%20%28US%20Pat%20659837%29.pdf