Babcock & Wilcox (B&W) began in 1867 with one patent, two friends and an unwavering commitment to reliable and effective innovation. When Stephen Wilcox first avowed that “there must be a better way” to safely generate power, he and George Babcock responded with the design for the first inherently safe water-tube boiler, and the company was born. This challenge to continuously improve endures today, over 150 years later.
More than 2,000 years ago, a Greek mathematician and scientist named Hero designed a device that used steam as a power source. His invention, the aeolipile, is credited as being the first steam engine.
In 1856, Stephen Wilcox built upon Hero's science to engineer and patent the water-tube boiler for use in industry. His success led him to team up with childhood friend George Babcock and establish The Babcock & Wilcox Company in 1867.
B&W’s early logos showcased Hero’s aeolipile, one of the first recorded demonstrations of the power of steam. The logo was updated several times as the company grew and expanded over the years, eventually evolving into our current logo -- encircled, simplified “B&W” letters and full company name. These elements symbolize our strong history, momentum, and never-ending commitment to helping our customers around the globe achieve their goals.
For more than 150 years, B&W has engineered new and improved energy and environmental products and services that offer dependable performance for a wide range of industries.
What hasn’t changed is the commitment we make to our customers today that our founders made when they established “The Original” Babcock & Wilcox – to find a better way, and stand by what we deliver.
