Why do Portage & Main Outdoor Water Furnaces have round fireboxes?
The Steam Engines were built round for a reason! The round, barrel-shaped firebox design has passed the test of time. Round is the strongest shape for a firebox. Round has fewer welds which translates into greater strength and longevity. Round has minimal expansion or contraction. Round means less weld stress. Round provides the best heat transfer and the highest efficiency based on normal fire burn practices. Other shapes have been tried by other companies but none have proven to be more effective. No other firebox design has been tested and proven more effective.
