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Belpaire firebox is a type of firebox used on steam locomotives. It
was invented by Alfred Belpaire of Belgium. It has a greater
surface area at the top of the firebox, improving heat transfer and
steam production. Its rectangular shape makes attaching the firebox
to the boiler more difficult, but this is offset by simpler
interior bracing of the firebox. The Pennsylvania Railroad used
Belpaire fireboxes on nearly all of its steam locomotives. The
distinctive square shape practically became a PRR trademark, as no
other American railroad except the Great Northern used Belpaire
fireboxes in significant numbers.
