We are equipment whisperers.
Imagine this: You’re at a conference, surrounded by industry experts, and someone raises their hand to ask, “What’s the difference between a Water Tube Boiler and a Fire Tube Boiler?” Now, most of us would expect this to be common knowledge at a water conference, right? But here’s the twist—the person asking wasn’t a water professional. He was a curious customer, frustrated because the company servicing his boiler couldn’t give him a clear answer.
This is where we, as water professionals, can really shine. Our job isn’t just to service equipment; it’s to educate our customers. We need to explain how their systems work, identify issues, discuss the solutions we’ve implemented, and most importantly, show them the results. Because when customers understand, they trust.
We are the “equipment whisperers,” and our mission is heating transfer management. In boilers, everything has to work together perfectly for efficient heat transfer. But how do we prove that? And how do we share that information in a way our customers understand?
Today’s episode tackles the age-old question: What’s the difference between a Water Tube Boiler and a Fire Tube Boiler? And for those of you working in the field, here’s a challenge: Can you explain it easily to your customers?
Water Tube Boilers circulate water through tubes heated externally by combustion gasses. These systems are typically larger, with higher efficiency, and can handle extreme pressures and temperatures. On the other hand, Fire Tube Boilers have hot gasses flowing through the tubes surrounded by water. They’re simpler, more compact, and generally cheaper to install—perfect for smaller applications.
But no matter what type of boiler your customer has, scale buildup is always the enemy. When scale forms inside a Water Tube Boiler, the consequences are severe. Fire Tube Boilers are a bit more forgiving, but the goal remains the same: Keep those heat transfer surfaces clean to generate steam with the least fuel possible.
So, the next time your customer asks a question—no matter how simple it seems—take the time to explain. Prove the value of your service and remind them that you’re there to help them maximize their system’s efficiency.
Tune in every day this week for a new episode of Scaling UP! H2O, and let’s make this Industrial Water Week a celebration of the amazing work we do!
Happy Industrial Water Week!
Timestamps
0:01 – Trace Blackmore welcomes you to Boiler Tuesday
09:32 – What is the difference between a Fire Tube Boiler and a Water Tube Boiler?
17:09- Our friend Fred Shurtz, Owner and the President of Precision Chemical, Division of Browne Labs stops by to wish everyone a happy Boiler Tuesday
19:40 – Detective H2O – The Case of Being Picture Perfect (NEW release for 2024)
Connect with Fred Shurtz
Phone: +1 812 455 7378
Email: fshurtz@precisonchem.com
Website: Precision Chemical
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fred-shurtz-7287b032/
Links Mentioned
369 Mastering New Business: A Sales Journey
Water Cake
Industrial Water Week Resources Page
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