There are two inclinations commonly used in power plant boilers –
0° Inclination
10° Inclination
0° Inclination: For a 0° inclination steam drum, the longitudinal axis of the steam drum is horizontal.
10° Inclination: For a 10° inclination steam drum, the longitudinal axis of the steam drum is inclined at an angle of 10° to the horizontal. An inclination of 10° is provided to the steam drum to assist in a proper circulation of water and steam inside the steam drum.
The difference between the water level in the front and rear of the steam drum is called as “Head Difference” and it creates a flow which is also known as “Thermo-siphon effect” due to density difference. This improves the circulation and steam purity.