A membrane water wall is best described as?

A membrane water wall is an essential component in certain types of boilers, particularly those used in power plants. This design includes tubes that carry water or steam, and the purpose of the membrane construction is to create a continuous surface that can withstand high temperatures and pressures while also providing effective heat transfer.

The inclusion of metal plates welded between the tubes characterizes the membrane water wall. These plates serve to minimize the loss of heat and promote efficient combustion within the furnace. They act as a barrier that not only helps in insulating the tubes but also allows the structure to remain rigid, which is crucial in a high-stress environment like a boiler. The welded plates integrate the tubes into a single coherent unit, enhancing their strength and stability while also playing a role in the overall heat transfer process.

Other configurations, such as using metal sheeting, firebrick, or waterproof membranes, do not accurately capture the defining feature of a membrane water wall. While they might serve different purposes in various applications, they do not provide the same structural integrity and heat transfer efficiency that the welded plates provide in the context of a membrane water wall.