Boiler Horsepower Formula:
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Boiler horsepower (BHP) is a measurement of a boiler's capacity to produce steam. One boiler horsepower is defined as the ability to evaporate 34.5 pounds of water per hour into steam at 212°F and atmospheric pressure.
The calculator uses the standard boiler horsepower formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula converts steam output in pounds per hour to equivalent boiler horsepower based on the standard definition.
Details: Calculating boiler horsepower is essential for sizing boilers, determining capacity requirements, comparing boiler performance, and ensuring proper system design for heating and industrial processes.
Tips: Enter the steam output in pounds per hour (lb/hr). The value must be greater than zero. The calculator will automatically compute the equivalent boiler horsepower.
Q1: What's the difference between boiler hp and mechanical hp?
A: Boiler horsepower measures steam production capacity, while mechanical horsepower measures work output. They are different units with different definitions.
Q2: Why is 34.5 used in the formula?
A: This number comes from the historical definition where one boiler horsepower equals the evaporation of 34.5 pounds of water per hour at 212°F.
Q3: Can this calculator be used for all types of boilers?
A: Yes, the formula applies to all steam boilers regardless of fuel type (gas, oil, electric, etc.).
Q4: What is a typical boiler horsepower range?
A: Residential boilers typically range from 1-10 BHP, commercial systems from 10-500 BHP, and industrial boilers can exceed 1000 BHP.
Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation provides theoretical boiler horsepower. Actual performance may vary based on boiler efficiency, operating conditions, and steam quality.