Paloputkia

Paloputkia is a Finnish term that translates to "fire tubes" or "fire pipes." In a broader sense, it refers to a type of heat exchanger where hot combustion gases pass through a bundle of tubes, transferring their heat to a surrounding fluid, typically water or steam. This design is commonly found in boilers, particularly in steam boilers used for industrial processes or power generation.

The principle behind paloputkia is the efficient transfer of heat from the combustion chamber to the working fluid. The hot gases, generated from burning fuel such as coal, oil, or natural gas, flow through the numerous tubes. The larger surface area provided by these tubes maximizes the contact between the hot gases and the water surrounding them, leading to effective heat absorption. As the water absorbs heat, it either heats up or boils to produce steam, depending on the boiler's design and operating pressure.

Paloputkia boilers are known for their robustness and relatively simple construction. They are a well-established technology in industrial heating applications. The design allows for a compact unit where a significant amount of heat can be generated and transferred. Maintenance involves cleaning the tubes to remove soot and ash buildup, which can impede heat transfer efficiency. The material of the tubes is crucial, needing to withstand high temperatures and pressures.