Boiler Headers

Product Description

Boiler Headers  Explained

Boiler headers (also called manifolds) are thick-walled pressure vessels used to collect or distribute steam, water, or flue gases within a boiler system. They serve as central nodes in high-pressure piping systems and play a critical role in ensuring balanced flow and thermal efficiency.

 What Are Boiler Headers?

A boiler header is a large cylindrical pipe (horizontal or vertical) that connects multiple smaller tubes or coils (e.g., economizer, water wall, superheater, or reheater coils). Headers manage the flow of fluid (steam or water) between different sections of the boiler.

Types of Boiler Headers:

Functions:

• Flow distribution or collection

• Pressure equalization

• Temperature regulation

• Facilitating inspection, control, and maintenance

• Preventing thermal shocks and flow imbalances

Construction Details:

• Material: High-grade alloy or carbon steel (e.g., SA-106 Gr B, SA-335 P11/P22, etc.)

• Design Pressure & Temp: Must meet ASME Section I or equivalent codes

• Ends: Typically flanged or beveled for welding

• Orientation: Horizontal (most common) or vertical

Boiler Header Locations:

• Water Wall Headers: At the top and bottom of the boiler furnace

• Superheater Headers: Before and after superheater coils

• Economizer Headers: At inlet and outlet of economizer banks

• Main Steam Header: Final outlet from the boiler to the plant/turbine

Maintenance and Inspection:

• Non-destructive testing (NDT): Ultrasonic, radiographic, magnetic particle

• Visual inspection of welds and joints

• Hydrostatic pressure testing

• Cleaning and descaling