What are the primary components of a steam boiler?

The primary components of a steam boiler include the furnace, steam drum, water drum, and superheater.

The furnace is where the combustion of fuel occurs, generating heat needed to convert water into steam. The steam drum is a crucial component that serves as a reservoir for steam produced from the boiling water, helping maintain the required steam pressure and facilitating the separation of steam from water. The water drum, typically located beneath the steam drum, holds water that is preheated before it enters the steam drum, enhancing efficiency by maximizing the use of heat.

The superheater is vital for further heating the steam after it has been generated, raising its temperature above its saturation point. This process increases the efficiency of the steam in performing work, such as driving turbines in a power generation setting.

This combination of components ensures the effective generation and management of steam in the boiler system, making option B the correct choice.