Test Your Knowledge: Special Boiler Quiz

When a hydrostatic test of a boiler exceeds the maximum allowable working pressure, each safety valve should have its valve disc held to its seat by means of a testing clamp or "gag". This is necessary to prevent the safety valve from opening and releasing pressure during the test. By holding the valve disc to its seat, the safety valve remains closed and ensures that the pressure in the boiler does not exceed the maximum allowable working pressure.

In a boiler room, it is necessary to post both Boiler licenses and Inspection certificates or examination certificates. Posting the boiler licenses ensures that the boiler operators are properly qualified and licensed to operate the boilers. On the other hand, posting the inspection certificates or examination certificates indicates that the boilers have been inspected and are in compliance with safety regulations. Therefore, both B and C should be posted in the boiler room to ensure proper documentation and compliance.

The safety valve is sealed to prevent tampering with pressure and capacity. This ensures that the valve operates at the correct pressure and capacity, which is crucial for maintaining the safety of the system or equipment it is installed in. If the valve is tampered with, it could lead to incorrect pressure levels or capacity, potentially causing damage or accidents. By sealing the valve, unauthorized individuals are prevented from making any adjustments that could compromise the safety and functionality of the system.

A firetube boiler is a type of boiler where hot combustion gasses pass through tubes that are surrounded by boiler water. In this design, the heat from the gasses is transferred to the water, resulting in the production of steam. This type of boiler is commonly used in industrial applications where high steam production is required. The other options mentioned, such as water tube and cast iron boilers, have different designs and mechanisms for heat transfer. The term "high-return temperature" does not accurately describe the type of boiler.

The correct procedure for blowing down a high pressure boiler is to open the quick-opening valve first and close it last. This is because the quick-opening valve allows for a rapid release of pressure and water from the boiler, which helps to remove any sediment or impurities. By opening it first, any buildup or blockages can be cleared effectively. Closing it last ensures that all the blowdown process is complete and the system is properly drained.

A hydrostatic test is considered to be a proof test that is used to determine if the component works as designed. This test involves filling the component with a liquid, usually water, and applying pressure to check for any leaks or failures. It is called a proof test because it provides evidence or proof that the component can withstand the intended operating conditions without any issues.

A pigtail or siphon is required in steam pressure gauge lines to protect the gauge from a high temperature. Steam can reach very high temperatures, and without a pigtail or siphon, the hot steam could directly come in contact with the gauge, causing damage or inaccurate readings. The pigtail or siphon acts as a barrier, allowing the steam to cool down before reaching the gauge, ensuring its proper functioning and longevity.

Foaming in a boiler may be caused by a high concentration of dissolved solids in the boiler water. When the concentration of dissolved solids, such as salts and minerals, becomes too high, it can lead to the formation of foam. This foam can interfere with the normal operation of the boiler, causing issues such as reduced heat transfer efficiency, increased corrosion, and potential damage to the boiler system. Therefore, it is important to maintain proper water treatment and control the level of dissolved solids to prevent foaming in the boiler.

The low-water cutoff (LWCO) is a device fitted to the boiler to shut off the fuel supply to the burners when the water level in the boiler is low. This is important because if the water level in the boiler drops too low, it can expose the heating surfaces to excessive heat, leading to potential damage or even a boiler explosion. By shutting off the fuel supply, the LWCO helps prevent this dangerous situation and ensures the boiler operates safely.

The evaporative capacity of a steam boiler is typically measured in terms of the amount of steam it can produce per hour. This measurement is important as it helps determine the efficiency and productivity of the boiler. By stating the evaporative capacity in pounds of steam per hour, it provides a standardized unit of measurement that allows for easy comparison and evaluation of different boilers.

Convection is a method of heat transfer where the movement of fluids is due solely to the flow of fluids. In convection, heat is transferred through the bulk movement of the fluid itself, as opposed to conduction where heat is transferred through direct contact between particles. This flow of fluids occurs because of the differences in temperature and density within the fluid, causing the warmer, less dense fluid to rise and the cooler, denser fluid to sink. This continuous circulation of fluid allows for the transfer of heat from one location to another.

Primary air refers to the air that is mixed with the fuel at or in the burner. It is the initial air supply that is required for the combustion process to take place. Primary air helps in the proper mixing of fuel and air, ensuring efficient and controlled combustion. It plays a crucial role in determining the flame stability, flame shape, and overall combustion performance.

Handhole and manhole openings in a boiler permit inspection, cleaning, and repairs. These openings allow access to the interior of the boiler, facilitating necessary maintenance activities such as inspections, cleaning to remove sediment or scale buildup, and repairs to any components or parts as needed to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the boiler.

One boiler horsepower is defined as the evaporation of 34.5 pounds of water per hour from and at a temperature of 212°F. This means that one boiler horsepower is the amount of heat energy required to convert 34.5 pounds of water into steam at 212°F in one hour.

According to the Minnesota statutes, a high pressure boiler plant of 51 to 500 horsepower may be left in operation unattended by an operator for no more than two consecutive hours when the premises are occupied by employees of the public.

Boiler stays are used to support tube sheets in a boiler. Tube sheets are important components in a boiler that hold the tubes in place. The stays provide additional support to ensure that the tube sheets remain stable and secure. Without the stays, the tube sheets may become weak and fail, leading to potential safety hazards and operational issues. Therefore, it is essential to use boiler stays to support the tube sheets and maintain the integrity of the boiler system.

Sodium sulfite is used as an oxygen scavenger because it has the ability to react with and remove oxygen from a system. It is commonly used in water treatment processes and in food preservation to prevent oxidation and spoilage. Sodium sulfite is a reducing agent, meaning it can donate electrons to oxygen molecules, effectively neutralizing its presence. This makes it an effective choice for scavenging oxygen and maintaining the quality and stability of various products and systems.

A boiler equipped with 2 Low Water Cut Offs (LWCOs) must have a manual reset on the auxiliary LWCO. This means that if the water level falls below the set point on the auxiliary LWCO, it will not automatically reset itself. Instead, a manual action is required to reset the LWCO and restore the boiler's operation. This is an important safety feature as it ensures that any issues with the water level are properly addressed and not ignored or overlooked.

Black smoke can be caused by insufficient combustion air. When there is not enough air available for combustion, the fuel does not burn completely, resulting in the production of black smoke. This can occur in various combustion processes, such as in boilers or engines. The incomplete combustion leads to the release of unburned carbon particles, which appear as black smoke. Increasing the supply of combustion air can help to ensure more complete combustion and reduce the formation of black smoke.

A water column is used to reduce the amount of movement of the water in a steam boiler. This allows the operator to obtain a clear and accurate reading of the water level in the gauge glass. The water column acts as a buffer, preventing rapid fluctuations in water level caused by the movement of steam and water within the boiler. It provides a stable and steady supply of water to the gauge glass, ensuring that the operator can easily monitor the water level.

Latent heat refers to the heat energy absorbed or released during a phase change, such as the conversion of a substance from a solid to a liquid or from a liquid to a gas, without any change in temperature. It is called latent heat because it is hidden or "latent" within the substance and does not directly affect the temperature. This heat is responsible for the changes in state, such as melting or evaporation, and is measured separately from sensible heat, which is the heat that causes a change in temperature.

Suspended matter refers to any solid impurity in water that cannot be dissolved. This can include particles such as silt, clay, or organic matter that remain suspended in the water without dissolving. These particles are typically larger in size and do not dissolve due to their insolubility. Suspended matter can affect the clarity and quality of water, and it is often removed through filtration or sedimentation processes.

A pressure control typically has two scales: cut-in pressure and differential pressure. Cut-in pressure refers to the minimum pressure at which the control starts to act, while differential pressure is the difference between the cut-in and cut-out pressures. The given answer correctly identifies these two scales, making it the correct choice.

As steam pressure increases, there is a corresponding increase in the boiling temperature of the water in the boiler. This is because higher pressure raises the boiling point of water, causing it to require more heat to reach its boiling temperature. Therefore, as the steam pressure increases, the boiling temperature of the water in the boiler also increases.

The correct answer is PSI pounds per square inch. PSI is the unit of measurement for pressure, specifically the amount of force exerted on a surface area of one square inch. This unit is commonly used to measure the maximum allowable working pressure (MAWP) of a system or equipment, such as in industrial applications or for pressure vessels. The other options mentioned, such as pound per hours (Pound/h) and LBS by pression, are not correct units for measuring pressure and are unrelated to MAWP.

The correct answer is Electrode and Resistance. Electric boilers can be classified into two general designs based on their heating element: electrode and resistance. In electrode boilers, the water is heated by passing an electric current through electrodes immersed in the water. Resistance boilers, on the other hand, use electrical resistance to generate heat, typically through heating elements made of materials with high electrical resistance. These two designs offer different advantages and are suitable for different applications.

Continuous blowdown systems are used in boilers to help control the concentration of dissolved solids. Dissolved solids in boiler water can lead to various problems such as scaling, corrosion, and foaming. By continuously removing a small amount of water from the boiler, the concentration of dissolved solids is reduced, ensuring that the water remains within acceptable limits. This helps to maintain the efficiency and longevity of the boiler system.

The correct answer is "Water on one side hot and gas on the other side." This statement accurately defines a heating surface as a surface where water is present on one side and hot gas is present on the other side. This arrangement allows for heat transfer from the hot gas to the water, resulting in heating.

This setup is designed to rapidly remove sludge and sediment from the bottom of the boiler. The quick-opening valve allows for a fast release of the blowdown water, which helps to effectively clear the bottom of the boiler. Once the quick-opening valve has been opened and the initial surge of blowdown water has been released, the slow-opening valve is then used to control the flow and allow for more precise regulation of the blowdown process.

The letters "HRT" in the context of a steam boiler refer to "Horizontal return tubular." This term describes a specific type of boiler design where the flue gasses travel horizontally through a series of tubes before returning to the front of the boiler. This design allows for efficient heat transfer and is commonly used in small to medium-sized boilers.

Boiler water with a pH of 6 is considered acidic. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Anything below 7 is considered acidic, while anything above 7 is considered alkaline or basic. Since the pH of 6 is below 7, it falls into the acidic range.

In the context of Minnesota state statutes for low pressure boilers, the definition of a "year" in terms of operational hours is typically set at 2000 hours. This standard measure is used to quantify a year of operation or service time for regulatory, maintenance, and inspection purposes. It provides a clear and uniform time frame to ensure that all low pressure boilers are operated, maintained, and inspected consistently across the state within the stipulated duration, facilitating better safety and efficiency management.

The efficiency of the boiler based on heat absorption is determined by calculating the output divided by the input. This formula allows us to understand how effectively the boiler is absorbing and utilizing heat energy. By dividing the output (the amount of useful work or heat produced by the boiler) by the input (the amount of fuel or energy supplied to the boiler), we can determine the efficiency of the boiler in converting the input energy into useful output energy.

A steam trap is a device used in steam systems to remove air and condensate from the steam line. As steam condenses into water, it can cause damage to the system and reduce its efficiency. The steam trap helps to remove this condensate and any air present in the line, ensuring that only steam flows through the system. This helps to maintain the proper functioning of the steam system and prevent any potential damage or inefficiencies.

The correct answer is carbon and hydrogen. Combustion is a chemical reaction that occurs when a fuel combines with oxygen to produce heat and light. In this process, the carbon and hydrogen atoms in the fuel are oxidized, releasing energy. Therefore, carbon and hydrogen are the essential elements present in fuels for combustion to occur.

According to the statutes of the State of Minnesota, each electric boiler horsepower is equal to 10 Kilowatts.

To determine if a safety valve on a boiler has sufficient capacity, one should check with the ASME Code. The ASME Code sets the standards and regulations for the design, construction, and operation of boilers and pressure vessels. It provides guidelines for the sizing and selection of safety valves based on factors such as the boiler's capacity, pressure, and type. By checking with the ASME Code, one can ensure that the safety valve meets the required capacity to effectively protect the boiler from overpressure situations.

A safety valve in a boiler is a critical safety device designed to prevent excessive pressure buildup by releasing steam when the pressure exceeds a safe level. This helps prevent boiler explosions and ensures the safe operation of the boiler system.

Low carbon steel is the most common material used for piping systems, especially in industrial settings. It's cost-effective, strong, and readily available. While non-ferrous metals, cast iron, and stainless steel are also used for specific applications, they are not as widely used as low carbon steel due to factors such as cost, corrosion resistance, and temperature limitations.

A water tube boiler is a type of boiler that has water flowing inside the tubes while hot gasses or flames surround the outside of the tubes. This design allows for efficient heat transfer and steam generation.

Heat transfer through a metal occurs via conduction. Conduction is the process where heat is transferred through a material without the movement of the material itself. In metals, conduction is particularly efficient because of the free electrons that rapidly transfer energy from one part of the metal to another. Radiation involves heat transfer through electromagnetic waves, convection involves heat transfer through fluid motion, and diffusion is more related to the spreading of particles rather than heat transfer.

The correct answer is "fuel supply when the burner flame goes out". A flame device is designed to detect the presence of a burner flame. If the flame goes out, it signals the device to shut off the fuel supply, preventing any potential hazards or accidents. This ensures that the fuel is not continuously flowing without a flame, which could lead to gas leaks or other dangerous situations.

Deaerators are essential components in boiler systems. They remove dissolved gases, primarily oxygen and carbon dioxide, from the feedwater to prevent corrosion in the boiler and associated piping. The primary mechanism for gas removal is heating the water. As the water temperature increases, the solubility of gases decreases, causing them to be released from the water. The released gases are then vented from the deaerator.

The boiling point of water in a pressurized boiler increases as the pressure inside the boiler increases. This is a well-established principle in thermodynamics, where higher pressure leads to a higher boiling point for a given substance. In summary, as the pressure goes up, the boiling point of water within the boiler also goes up.

Convection is the correct answer because it refers to the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids, such as liquids or gasses. In convection, heat is transferred by the circulation of the fluid, which causes warmer particles to rise and cooler particles to sink, creating a continuous flow. This process is commonly observed in everyday life, such as when heat is transferred from a stove to a pot of water or when warm air rises and cool air sinks in a room.

A cross tee fitting is used on boiler column connections to access the connecting piping for cleaning. This allows for maintenance and cleaning of the pipes connected to the boiler, ensuring that they remain free from debris and blockages, which can be crucial for the proper functioning of the boiler system.

Safety valves are crucial safety devices on steam boilers. Their primary function is to prevent a dangerous pressure buildup that could lead to an explosion. If the pressure inside the boiler exceeds the MAWP, the safety valve automatically opens to release steam and reduce the pressure to a safe level. While options (a) and (d) relate to pressure regulation, they are not the primary function of a safety valve. Option (b) uses the term "blowback," which is not the standard term for the release of steam from a safety valve.

A low-water cutoff (LWCO) prevents boiler damage by cutting off the fuel supply to prevent overheating of any part of the furnace. This is important because if the water level in the boiler drops too low, it can expose the heating surfaces and cause them to overheat, leading to potential damage or even failure of the boiler. By cutting off the fuel supply, the LWCO ensures that the boiler does not continue to operate without sufficient water, protecting it from overheating and potential damage.

A globe valve should be used if a valve is required in a steam line for throttling action. Globe valves are designed to regulate flow by gradually opening or closing the valve, allowing for precise control of the fluid passing through. They are commonly used in applications where throttling or regulating the flow is necessary, such as in steam lines. Unlike gate valves, which are mainly used for full flow or shut-off, globe valves provide better control and can handle the high pressures and temperatures typically found in steam lines. Therefore, a globe valve is the correct choice in this scenario.

The safety valve test should not be performed unless another licensed engineer is present. This is important because safety valve testing involves releasing high pressure steam, which can be dangerous if not handled properly. Having another licensed engineer present ensures that there is an experienced professional who can assist and supervise the test, minimizing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safety of everyone involved.

A siphon tube is necessary to prevent water from entering a steam gauge. This is because steam gauges are designed to measure the pressure of steam, and if water were to enter the gauge, it could cause damage or inaccurate readings. The siphon tube helps to create a barrier between the steam and the gauge, allowing only steam to pass through and preventing any water from entering.

The main function of a gas burner is to mix the gas with combustion air. This is an essential process in order to achieve proper combustion and efficient burning of the gas. By mixing the gas with the combustion air, the burner ensures that the fuel is evenly distributed and properly ignited, resulting in a controlled and efficient combustion process. This is crucial for achieving optimal heating or energy production in furnaces or other gas-powered systems.

The minimum size drain required on a water column is 3/4 inch. This means that the drain should have a diameter of 3/4 inch in order to effectively drain the water column.

Sensible heat refers to the heat energy that is transferred to or from a substance, resulting in a change in its temperature. It is the heat energy that can be sensed or felt. Unlike latent heat, which is associated with phase changes (such as the heat of evaporation or fusion), sensible heat directly affects the temperature of a substance. Therefore, it is able to cause a change in temperature.

Before filling a boiler with water, the licensed engineer should ensure that the flame scanner has been tested. This is important because the flame scanner is responsible for detecting the presence and quality of the flame inside the boiler. Testing the flame scanner ensures that it is functioning properly and can accurately detect any issues with the flame, such as instability or extinguishment. This helps to prevent potential hazards and ensures the safe operation of the boiler.

The minimum size bottom blowdown line used on a mini or miniature boiler is 1/2 inch.

The lever on a safety valve is used to test the operation of the valve. By manually operating the lever, the valve can be forced open at the correct pressure to ensure that it is functioning properly. This allows for regular testing and maintenance of the safety valve to ensure its reliability in case of an emergency.

Vacuum levels are often measured in inches of mercury (Hg), indicating the height of a mercury column that the vacuum could support. This measurement is commonly used in various industries and applications to quantify the level of vacuum.

A pressuretrol attached to the steam space of a boiler controls the burner operation by starting the burner when there is a decrease in pressure. When the pressure in the steam space decreases below a certain set point, the pressuretrol activates the burner to increase the pressure back to the desired level. This helps maintain the optimal pressure in the boiler and ensures efficient and safe operation.

The correct answer is Pressure control. In a steam boiler system, the pressure control unit is responsible for turning the burner on and off based on the steam pressure. It monitors the pressure levels and activates the burner when the pressure falls below a certain threshold, ensuring that there is enough steam to meet the demand. Similarly, it shuts off the burner when the pressure exceeds a certain limit to prevent any damage or unsafe conditions. The pressure control unit plays a crucial role in maintaining the optimal pressure levels in the steam boiler system.

A high pressure boiler of 25 HP should be checked every 24 hours. This is because high pressure boilers require regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure their safe and efficient operation. Checking the boiler every 24 hours allows for timely detection of any potential issues or malfunctions, allowing for prompt repairs or adjustments to be made. Regular checks also help to ensure that the boiler is operating within safe parameters, minimizing the risk of accidents or failures.

Large high-pressure utility boilers use natural draft for several reasons. Natural draft relies on the buoyancy of hot gasses to create a pressure difference, which allows for the removal of combustion products and the supply of fresh air. This method is cost-effective, as it does not require additional mechanical equipment. Additionally, the natural draft provides a stable and reliable flow of air, ensuring efficient combustion and heat transfer.

Safety valves should be tested on a low-pressure boiler every quarter, or every 90 days. This regular testing ensures that the safety valves are functioning properly and can release excess pressure to prevent any potential accidents or damage. Testing them quarterly allows for timely identification and correction of any issues that may arise, ensuring the continued safety and efficiency of the boiler system.

A high pressure boiler must have two means of feed water supply if it exceeds 50 HP or 500 square feet. This means that if the boiler has a horsepower rating greater than 500, it is required to have two separate methods for supplying water. This is likely to ensure that there is a backup system in place in case one supply method fails, ensuring continuous operation and safety of the boiler.

The correct answer is "15 PSI and over 6 boiler horsepower." This is because a High Pressure Boiler is defined as a boiler that operates at a pressure greater than 15 pounds per square inch (PSI) and has a power output of over 6 boiler horsepower. Therefore, any boiler that meets both of these criteria can be classified as a High Pressure Boiler.

A main steam stop is necessary in each boiler in a battery because it allows for the control and regulation of the flow of steam. This stop valve is essential for shutting off the supply of steam to the system, preventing any potential accidents or damage. It serves as a safety measure to ensure that the steam flow can be quickly and effectively stopped when needed.

The low-water fuel cutoff (LWCO) is used on a boiler to prevent damage due to burner overfiring. This safety device is designed to shut off the burner when the water level in the boiler drops below a certain point. If the burner continues to fire without sufficient water, it can cause overheating and damage to the boiler. The LWCO helps to protect the boiler from this potential harm by shutting off the burner before it can overfire.

The correct answer is "check valve between a stop valve and a boiler". This means that the feedwater line contains a check valve, which is a type of valve that allows the flow of fluid in one direction only. It is located between a stop valve and a boiler, which ensures that water flows from the feedwater line into the boiler and prevents any backflow.

The test connection between the siphon tube and the boiler pressure gauge is needed to test the steam temperature at the pressure shown on the gauge. This connection allows for accurate measurement of the steam temperature and ensures that it is consistent with the pressure indicated on the gauge. This is important for monitoring and maintaining the proper functioning of the boiler system.

A high pressure boiler requires two means of feed water supply if it exceeds 50 horsepower. This is likely because high pressure boilers operate at higher pressures and temperatures, which can result in a higher demand for water. Having two means of feed water supply ensures that there is a backup system in place in case one fails or is unable to meet the demand. This helps to maintain the safe and efficient operation of the boiler.

According to the statutes of the State of Minnesota, one boiler horsepower for steam-coil-type generators is equal to 5 sq ft of boiler heating surface.

A steam boiler operating control regulates the steam pressure inside the boiler. This control ensures the boiler operates within a safe pressure range by adjusting the fuel supply or burner operation to maintain the desired steam pressure. It is crucial for efficient boiler performance and safety. Other controls, like gas pressure control and safety valves, serve different functions unrelated to steam pressure regulation.

The function of an automatic city water feeder on a low pressure boiler is to control the water level of the tank. This device is responsible for monitoring the water level in the tank and automatically adding water when necessary to maintain the desired level. It helps to ensure that the boiler always has enough water to operate efficiently and safely.

The heating surface of a boiler refers to the area of the boiler that is exposed to the heat produced by the combustion of fuel. In general, the heating surface of a watertube boiler is smaller than that of a firetube boiler. This is because, in a water boiler, the water is contained inside the tubes, which are surrounded by hot gasses. This allows for a more efficient transfer of heat from the gasses to the water. In contrast, in a firetube boiler, the water surrounds the tubes, resulting in a larger heating surface area. Therefore, the statement that the heating surface is smaller in a watertube boiler than in a firetube boiler is correct.

The spring in a safety valve is crucial for maintaining the valve's proper functioning. Its main purpose is to keep the valve closed under normal operating pressures. When the pressure exceeds the set limit, the spring force is overcome, causing the valve to open and release the excess pressure. Once the pressure drops back to safe levels, the spring forces the valve disc to close against the seat, ensuring the system is sealed again.

The maximum pressure allowed in a low pressure hot water boiler is 160 psig. This means that the pressure inside the boiler should not exceed 160 pounds per square inch gauge. This limit is set to ensure the safety and proper functioning of the boiler, as exceeding this pressure could lead to damage or even explosion.

Manually tripping the LWCO linkage simulates a low-water condition without actually lowering the boiler water level. This is the safest method because it avoids the risk of damaging the boiler or causing a hazardous situation if the LWCO fails to operate. The other options involve potentially dangerous actions like lowering the water level or blowing down the float chamber, which could lead to overheating or other issues if not performed carefully.

Improper drainage of steam lines can result in high steam flow. When steam lines are not properly drained, condensate can accumulate and restrict the flow of steam. This accumulation of condensate can cause an increase in pressure within the steam lines, leading to a higher steam flow.