What type of steel is frequently used for boiler construction due to its properties?

Carbon steel is frequently used for boiler construction due to its advantageous properties, particularly its strength, durability, and ability to withstand high pressures and temperatures that are typically present in boiler operations. This type of steel is primarily composed of iron and carbon, making it both cost-effective and suitable for forming and welding, which are essential processes in boiler fabrication.

Carbon steel exhibits excellent mechanical properties, including good tensile strength and toughness, which are crucial for handling the stresses placed on a boiler during operation. Additionally, its weldability allows for the efficient assembly of various boiler components.

In comparison, while alloy steel and stainless steel have specific applications due to their resistance to corrosion and other properties, they may not be as commonly used in typical boiler construction as carbon steel. Cast iron, while strong and able to withstand high pressures, is generally too brittle for most boiler applications where flexibility and impact resistance are required. The selection of carbon steel for boiler construction thus reflects a balance of performance, cost-efficiency, and suitability for the demanding conditions encountered in boiler operation.