Why are baffles used in the steam and water drum of water-tube boilers?

• A. Prevent water carryover with the steam
• B. Increase heat transfer rate
• C. Reduce noise
• D. Control boiler draft

Answer: (A)

Baffles in the steam and water drum are there to keep the steam as dry as possible by separating water droplets from the steam before it leaves the drum. In a water-tube boiler, the mixture of steam and water rises into the drum and small droplets can cling to the steam or be carried along with it. The baffles act as barriers or screens that disrupt the flow, forcing droplets to collide with the surfaces and fall back into the water, while the steam path is guided so that the vapor can exit with minimal carryover. This improves steam quality and reduces the chance of water being carried into downstream equipment. While baffles can influence flow distribution, their main job is moisture separation rather than increasing heat transfer, reducing noise, or controlling boiler draft.