Don't think that a modern boiler is something that you can fix with a basic set of plumbing skills. These units are far more advanced than their ancient forefathers were. Most modern boilers typically have a computer control system, advanced sensory readouts, and multiple power settings. The typical model of boiler that most people think of is a giant metal drum that you have to feed with coal or wood in order to generate power.
While the fuel source has changed over the years, the power generation method is still the same. The boiler is heated, the water is boiled, and the resulting steam pressure turns a turbine to generate power. Many modern boilers use diesel fuel, or electric heating elements to boil their water. This is where the need for computer systems comes in.
Due to the ever changing demand for power a boiler room needs to be able to control the output of the boilers under its control. Failure to run the boilers properly can result in some severe problems which can lead to boiler damage. This in turn leads to repairs being needed which can take an excessively long time to complete. Power engineering isn't a simple field and boiler repair is a perfect example of it.
In order to repair a boiler you have to first shut it down and let it cool off. This can take upwards of several days depending on the size of the boiler and its output. After it's cooled down you can then begin the required maintenance or replace worn out parts. Finally after you're done the boiler has to be slowly heated back to its operating temperature before being engaged at full power.
Failure to do this can result in damage to the actual structure of the boiler and that is not repairable. So if you like working a job where some days you'll have nothing to do, and others you'll have overwhelming amounts of work then this field might be fore you. It can get hot working with a boilers but it can also be very rewarding. A properly maintained boiler will run for several years without much of an issue.
In fact in several modern cities there are boilers that are older than the buildings that they are in. Boilers by their design are meant to be tough, and the old models made before computers and electronics are some of the toughest around. These models are prime examples of power engineering at its best.
Working in a boiler room can be boring at times. Modern systems ensure that you are notified about changes over a variety of factors before any actual problems occur. However it can impart a sense of pride managing a room full of these monsters and keeping them all in perfect shape. Although old, the technology is going to be around for some time and technicians will be needed.
