208 Questions
What is a key reason why regular checks of hot water heating boilers are important?
Because they may not function safely and efficiently during unsupervised periods
What is the purpose of the programmed combustion control sequence in hot water boilers?
To maintain safe and efficient burner operation
What is the ideal color of the burner flame when burning natural gas?
Predominantly blue
What is included in routine boiler checks?
Pressure, temperature, flame condition, and stack temperature
What happens when the heating conditions are satisfied in a hot water boiler?
The boiler stops
Why do hot water boilers need regular attention despite having automatic systems?
To ensure safe and dependable operation
What is the ideal color of a light fuel oil flame?
Bright yellow with orange at the tips
What is the purpose of checking the flue gas temperature regularly?
To identify fouling of heating surfaces
What is the result of a gradual increase in flue gas temperature?
Reduced heat transfer efficiency
What is the consequence of excessive soot in the furnace?
Potentially dangerous furnace explosion
What is the cause of high flue gas temperature when excess air is present?
Gases traveling at a higher velocity
What is the recommended hot water supply set point for non-condensing boilers?
At or near 75°C
What is the maximum operating temperature for hot water heating boilers?
120°C
What is the purpose of checking the combustion air intake?
To remove any obstructions
What is the result of a dirty burner nozzle in oil firing?
Smoky flame
Who should be hired to perform combustion analysis and adjust the air-fuel ratio?
A licensed gas fitter, oil fitter, or burner technician
What is the minimum differential pressure required between the safety relief valve set pressure and the boiler operating pressure according to ASME VI?
70 kPa
What happens when the safety relief valve is not able to open at its set pressure?
The pressure vessel may fail
Why is it important to regularly check that the heating system is completely filled with water?
To ensure satisfactory operation of the entire system
What is a common cause of water loss from a hot water heating system?
Leaks in the piping and valves
What is the purpose of installing a water meter in the make-up line?
To detect leaks in the heat exchangers
What happens when an expansion tank is full and the boiler fires?
The piping system becomes pressurized
What is the purpose of checking the air charge in a bladder-style expansion tank?
To ensure the tank has adequate room for expansion
What is the consequence of a full expansion tank if left unaddressed?
Corrosive and scale-forming compounds are introduced to the system
Why is it important to ensure the safety relief valve stays tightly closed unless required to open?
To ensure the valve does not leak or weep
What is the purpose of an automatic feed valve in a hot water heating system?
To add make-up water when needed
What is a sign of a damaged tank bladder?
Water issues forth with air when depressing the Schrader valve stem
What should be done after replacing a bladder or re-coring a Schrader valve?
Recharge the tank
Why is it important to determine and repair the cause of an air leak in a conventional air cushion expansion tank?
To prevent the tank from filling with water
What is often used to test the water in closed hot water heating systems?
A chemical residual test
What is the purpose of restricting blowoff and blowdown in hot water heating boilers?
To reduce the need for internal water treatment
What is a necessary step in restoring an expansion tank to service?
Slowly restoring the boiler isolation valve
What is a common source of air leaks in conventional air cushion expansion tanks?
Old, brittle, and cracked gauge glass gaskets
What is the purpose of a low water fuel cut-off (LWCO) in steam boilers?
To ensure the boiler operates safely
How often are some closed hot water heating systems tested?
Monthly
Why do larger capacity steam boilers require continuous supervision?
Because of the hazards they pose to public safety
What is the primary purpose of the daily checks performed by boiler operators?
To ensure the safe operation of the boilers under their care
What is the correct procedure when taking over from the automatic control system?
Adjust the fuel feed according to the boiler load
Why should the boiler pressure not be greater than the operating control cut-out set point?
To prevent the safety valve from weeping or simmering
What is the recommended pressure differential between the safety valve set pressure and the boiler operating pressure control?
The greater of 70 kPa or 25% of the safety valve setting
What is the primary indicator of boiler water level?
The gauge glass
What is the purpose of the continuous blowdown (CBD) adjustment?
To remove impurities from the boiler water
What is the recommended maximum boiler operating pressure for a hot water heating boiler with a safety relief valve set to 207 kPa?
137 kPa
Why is it important to not rely entirely on water level controls, emergency water feeders, or automatic alarms?
Because they can lead to complacency
What is the purpose of the log book entry in the operator's duties?
To record the operator's daily activities and tasks
What is the recommended maximum boiler operating pressure for a steam power boiler with a safety valve set point of 1725 kPa?
1552.5 kPa
Where does precipitated sediment typically accumulate?
In areas of slow boiler water circulation
Why should the gauge glass and water column be blown through regularly?
To remove sediment and ensure clear lines
What is a common indicator of condensate system corrosiveness?
Condensate pH
What is a possible cause of foaming or priming in a boiler?
Excessive dissolved or suspended solids
How can mild cases of foaming be controlled?
By using antifoam chemicals
What should be done regularly to ensure the most efficient heat transfer?
Soot blowing
What is the recommended boiler load when operating soot blowers?
Above 50% of maximum
What is the purpose of monitoring the flue gas temperature?
To detect heat exchanger fouling
What is the purpose of regular testing of low water fuel cut-offs?
To prove the control will trip the boiler
What can cause poor heat transfer in a boiler?
Both A and B
What is the primary purpose of tracking steam production, fuel flow, and flue gas temperature on a common screen?
To facilitate easier analysis and monitoring of boiler performance
What is the purpose of performing tests on boiler water, deaerated feedwater, and condensate?
To determine the amount of chemicals required for treatment
What is the primary objective of the continuous blowdown (CBD) process?
To maintain the concentration of dissolved and suspended solids below the maximum allowed
What is the importance of keeping the boiler room and equipment clean?
To reduce the risk of fire hazards
What should be done to minimize oxygen in the boiler water?
Use every practical means to exclude oxygen from the boiler water
What is the recommended practice for feeding make-up water into a steam heating system?
Into the condensate return tank
What is the primary purpose of maintaining the Boiler Room Log?
To record each test performed, the time of the test, and the result of the test
What is the indication of possible water leakage in low-pressure steam boilers?
A loss of 7-8 cm of water per month in boiler water level
Why is it essential to monitor the make-up water flow?
To calculate the percentage of make-up water used
What is the purpose of backwashing filters and regenerating ion exchange softeners in external water treatment equipment?
To maintain the effectiveness of the equipment
What is the primary cause of a rapidly falling water level in a boiler?
Faulty feedwater level controller
What should the operator do first if the boiler is in operation but the water level is not visible in the gauge glass?
Check the drain on the gauge glass
What is the recommended procedure if a boiler sustains a low water condition?
Let the boiler cool slowly before draining and inspecting
What is the consequence of a high water level in a boiler?
Severe plant damage and loss of life
What should the operator do if the water level in the gauge glass is higher than normal?
Manually reduce the feedwater flow to the boiler
What is the recommended procedure if carryover or priming is suspected in a boiler?
Isolate the boiler from the main steam header
What is the purpose of manually controlling the drum level when the automatic control is not functioning?
To maintain the water level at the desired point
What is the recommended procedure when manually controlling the drum level with a bypass valve?
Have at least two operators present
What should the operator do if the boiler is found to have a low water level below the lowest visible point of the gauge glass?
Immediately shut off the fuel and air to the boiler
What is the purpose of determining the underlying cause of a high water condition in a boiler?
To resume normal operation
What is the primary function of the programmed combustion control sequence in hot water boilers?
To maintain safe and efficient burner operation
What is a key aspect of routine boiler checks that operators must perform daily?
Checking the burner flame condition
Why is it crucial to ensure regular checks of hot water heating boilers, despite not requiring continuous supervision?
To ensure the boiler functions safely and efficiently during unsupervised periods
What is the primary purpose of monitoring the flame condition during daily routine checks?
To identify any potential issues with the burner operation
Why do hot water boilers require regular attention, despite having fully automatic systems?
To ensure safe and dependable operation
What is the primary benefit of the programmed combustion control sequence in hot water boilers?
It maintains safe and efficient burner operation
What is the colour of a light fuel oil flame?
Bright yellow with orange at the tips
What is the primary indication of fouled heating surfaces?
Higher flue gas temperature
What is the recommended action if the burner nozzle is dirty?
Hire a certified burner technician to clean the nozzle
What is the primary cause of excessive soot in the furnace?
Poor combustion conditions
What is the recommended maximum operating temperature for hot water heating boilers?
120°C
What is the primary consequence of over-firing a boiler?
Higher flue gas temperature
What is the primary purpose of tracking the flue gas temperature?
To detect fouled heating surfaces
What is the recommended action if the flue gas temperature is too high?
Hire a certified burner technician to perform combustion analysis
What is the primary indication of water vapour in the combustion process?
White plume
What is the primary purpose of checking the boiler discharge water temperature?
To ensure the hot water supply set point is reached
What is the primary reason for restricting blowoff and blowdown in hot water heating boilers?
To reduce the amount of make-up water required
What is the purpose of checking the residual of corrosion inhibitor in closed hot water heating systems?
To prevent corrosion and scale formation
Why is it necessary to renew gauge glass gaskets in conventional air cushion expansion tanks?
To prevent air leaks
What is the minimum pressure differential required between the safety relief valve set pressure and the boiler operating pressure according to ASME VI, when the safety relief valve is set to open at 400 kPa?
120 kPa
What is the consequence of not replacing a damaged tank bladder in a conventional air cushion expansion tank?
The tank must be replaced entirely
What is the consequence of a small pressure differential between the safety relief valve set pressure and the boiler operating pressure?
The valve may leak or weep
What is the purpose of shot feeding water treatment chemicals into a hot water heating system?
To prevent corrosion and scale formation
What is the primary reason for checking the expansion tank regularly in a hot water heating system?
To ensure the tank has adequate room for expansion
What is the primary reason for performing regular steam boiler operating duties?
To prevent hazards to public safety
What is the effect of a full expansion tank on the boiler operation in a hot water heating system?
The boiler will pressurize to higher than the safety valve set point
What is the consequence of not repairing air leaks in conventional air cushion expansion tanks?
The tank will fill with water
What is the purpose of an automatic feed valve in a hot water heating system?
To add make-up water to the system
What is the consequence of not addressing water losses in a hot water heating system?
Corrosive and scale-forming compounds will be introduced to the system
What is the purpose of using pipe plugs or caps on the vent and drain lines in conventional air cushion expansion tanks?
To secure the system from air leaks
What is the recommended procedure to check the air charge in a bladder-style expansion tank?
Drain the water from the tank and use a tire pressure gauge to read the tank pressure
Why is it necessary to depress the Schrader valve stem in a conventional air cushion expansion tank?
To test the tank for air leaks
What is the primary purpose of re-coring a Schrader valve in a conventional air cushion expansion tank?
To repair air leaks
What is the effect of a leaking circulating pump packing or seals in a hot water heating system?
The system will lose water
What is the purpose of regularly checking the heating system to ensure it is completely filled with water?
To ensure the system is properly filled and vented
What is the consequence of a full expansion tank in a hot water heating system if left unaddressed?
Water, heat, and chemical wastage will occur
What is the main purpose of the operator's familiarity with the method of changing over from automatic to hand control of fuel admission to the furnace?
To enable the operator to take over from the control system in case of failure of the automatic arrangement
What is the recommended procedure to prevent safety valves from weeping or simmering due to high pressure?
Set the operating control cut-out to a lower pressure than the safety valve set point
What is the primary reason for not relying entirely on water level controls, emergency water feeders, or automatic alarms?
To keep water in the boiler at the proper level
What is the primary purpose of blowing down the gauge glass and water column?
To remove sediment that accumulates in areas of slow boiler water circulation
What is the correct procedure when the boiler load increases?
Increase the amount of fuel burned in the boiler furnace
What is the recommended maximum boiler operating pressure for a hot water heating boiler with a safety relief valve set to 207 kPa?
137 kPa
What is the recommended procedure when dealing with persistent foaming in the boiler?
Taking the boiler out of service, cooling, draining, and washing it out thoroughly
What is the primary function of the gauge glass?
To indicate the boiler water level
Why is it necessary to keep the heating surfaces free from soot and ash?
To allow for the most efficient transfer of heat to boiler water
What is the purpose of testing the low water fuel cut-off?
To prove that the control will shut off the boiler
What is the consequence of not maintaining the recommended pressure differential between the safety valve set pressure and the boiler operating pressure control?
The safety valve will fail to open at the set pressure
What is the purpose of the daily checks performed by boiler operators?
To ensure the safe operation of the boiler
What is the consequence of a wide fluctuation of the water level in the boiler?
Foaming or priming of the boiler
Why is it necessary to regularly test the water conditions in the boiler?
To prevent the formation of scale on the heating surfaces
What is the recommended maximum boiler operating pressure for a steam power boiler with a safety valve set point of 1725 kPa?
1552.5 kPa
What is the purpose of regularly monitoring the steam production in the boiler?
To detect heat exchanger fouling
What is the primary objective of the operator's daily checks?
To ensure the safe operation of the boiler and its components
What is the recommended boiler load when operating soot blowers?
Above 50% of maximum
What is the consequence of not regularly blowing down the gauge glass and water column?
The accumulation of sediment in areas of slow boiler water circulation
What is the purpose of checking the return line and other parts of the system for evidence of corrosion?
To detect rust in the gauge glass
What is the primary purpose of tracking steam production, fuel flow, and flue gas temperature on a common screen in larger plants?
To monitor equipment performance and identify potential issues
Why is it important to perform tests on boiler water, deaerated feedwater, and condensate at regular intervals?
To monitor the performance of the water treatment program
What is the primary purpose of the continuous blowdown (CBD) process?
To remove dissolved and suspended solids from the boiler water
Why is it important to inspect the boiler and its components regularly?
To identify and address potential issues before they become major problems
What is the purpose of monitoring the make-up water flow?
To check for signs of water leakage
Why is it important to maintain a clean boiler room and equipment?
To reduce the risk of fire hazards
What is the purpose of the Boiler Room Log?
To record test results and observations
Why is it important to check for signs of leakage from safety valves, manholes, and other components during inspections?
To identify potential safety issues and prevent accidents
What is the primary purpose of monitoring the boiler water conductivity?
To determine the concentration of dissolved and suspended solids
Why is it important to feed make-up water into the condensate return tank instead of directly into the boiler?
To minimize the release of dissolved gases from the make-up water
What is the primary reason for not feeding water into the boiler immediately after a low water condition is detected?
To prevent quenching of overheated heating surfaces
What is the recommended procedure when the water level in the gauge glass is higher than normal?
Manually reduce the feedwater flow to the boiler and operate the main blowoff valves
What is the consequence of a high water level in a boiler if water enters the steam lines?
Severe plant damage and loss of life
What should the operator do if the boiler is in operation but the water level is not visible in the gauge glass?
Open the drain on the gauge glass to check the level
What is the purpose of isolating the boiler from the main steam header when carryover or priming is suspected?
To prevent water from entering the steam lines
What is the recommended procedure when the underlying cause of a high water condition is being determined and repaired?
Manually control the drum level with the bypass valve
What is the consequence of a faulty feedwater level controller in a boiler?
Rapidly falling water level in the boiler
What is the purpose of having at least two operators present when manually controlling the drum level with a bypass valve?
To prevent accidents and ensure safety
What is the recommended procedure when the cause of a low water level is being determined and repaired?
Let the boiler cool slowly and then inspect for damage
What is the consequence of not determining and correcting the cause of a low water level in a boiler?
Catastrophic failure of the boiler
What is the consequence of a draft fan failure in a furnace?
The furnace will explode
What is the purpose of a low-air cut-off switch in a boiler?
To cut power to the fuel safety shut-off valves when air pressure drops
Why must the fuel flow stop immediately if a flame failure occurs?
To prevent the furnace from filling with unburned fuel, causing an explosion
What is the purpose of flame detection devices in a boiler?
To shut off the fuel supply immediately after the flame fails
What is the primary cause of most boiler accidents?
Neglect of safety protocols
What may cause a draft fan to fail?
Tripped breaker or broken coupling between the motor and fan
What is required to be reported by the person in charge of a boiler or pressure vessel in the event of an explosion?
The exact place or location, names of persons killed or injured, and the cause of the explosion
What is the purpose of a systematic check of the actual operation against the normal sequence during boiler operation?
To prevent costly downtime or delays
Why is it important to have a good knowledge of the control system during boiler operation?
To troubleshoot more easily
What should not be moved or interfered with at the scene of an explosion until an inspector has investigated the accident?
The equipment or objects at the scene
What is the purpose of following a routine during boiler troubleshooting?
To ensure that obvious causes of trouble are not overlooked
What is fundamental to any boiler operation?
Fundamental equipment knowledge
Why are regular checks of operating and protective devices necessary in automatically fired packaged boilers?
To ensure they are functioning properly despite requiring little attention during operation
What is a common cause of furnace explosions in boilers?
Insufficient purge of the furnace before lighting
Why is it important for boiler operators to know the basic causes of explosions?
To prevent extensive damage to property and personal injury or loss of life
What can occur when a pressure part of the boiler bursts due to excessive steam pressure or structural weakness?
Pressure explosion
Why is it important to perform regular maintenance and checks on boilers and controls?
To prevent accidents and ensure safe operation of the boiler
What can cause overheating of the heating surfaces in a boiler?
Low water condition
What is a common cause of pressure explosions in boilers?
Weakening of the material due to corrosion
Why is it important for boiler operators to refrain from unsafe practices that may lead to explosions?
To prevent accidents and ensure safe operation of the boiler
What can occur when a boiler's furnace or gas passes contain an explosive air/fuel mixture?
Furnace explosion
Why is it important for boiler operators to conscientiously follow the instructions regarding testing and maintenance of fittings and controls?
To prevent accidents and ensure safe operation of the boiler
What is the purpose of a low-air cut-off switch in a modern automatically-fired packaged boiler?
To cut the power to the fuel safety shut-off valves when the pressure at the blower discharge drops below the minimum safe value
What is the primary reason for shutting off the fuel supply immediately when a draft fan fails?
To prevent a furnace explosion
What is the purpose of flame detection devices in fluid-fired boilers?
To shut off the fuel supply immediately after the flame fails
What is the main reason why boiler accidents can be prevented?
Because most boiler accidents can be prevented with proper maintenance and safety procedures
What is a common cause of flame failure during boiler operation?
Insufficient fuel oil supply due to a plugged filter
What is the consequence of a draft fan failure if the fuel supply is not shut off immediately?
The furnace may explode due to unburned fuel accumulating
What must the person in charge of the boiler or pressure vessel do in the event of an explosion?
Notify the proper authorities and report all particulars concerning the explosion
What is essential to have before operating a steam or hot water boiler?
Fundamental equipment knowledge
What is the purpose of a systematic check of the actual operation against the normal sequence?
To prevent costly downtime or delays
What should not be done at the scene of an explosion until an inspector has investigated the accident?
Nothing should be moved or interfered with, unless it is for the purpose of saving life or limb, protecting property, or the removal of the dead
What is necessary for systematic troubleshooting?
A good knowledge of the control system
What is the purpose of following a routine when troubleshooting?
So that obvious causes of trouble are not overlooked
What is a common cause of furnace explosions in boilers?
Insufficient purge of the furnace before lighting
What can occur if the operator neglects the mandatory, regular checking of operating and protective devices in automatically fired packaged boilers?
The devices may become inoperable due to neglect
What is a common consequence of boiler explosions?
Extensive damage to property and personal injury or loss of life
What is a reason why automatically fired packaged boilers require little attention during operation?
They are well protected by automatic devices
What is a cause of pressure explosions in boilers?
Overstressing of the material due to overly rapid boiler warm-up
What should the operator do to prevent an explosion in a boiler?
Conscientiously follow the instructions regarding testing and maintenance of fittings and controls
What can cause the accumulation of an explosive mixture of fuel and air in a boiler's furnace?
Repeated unsuccessful attempts to light off without appropriate purging
What is a necessary step to prevent boiler accidents?
Applying the proper operating procedures and maintenance logs
What is a consequence of inadequate maintenance of boilers and controls?
Increased risk of boiler accidents
What is a common misconception about automatically fired boilers?
No supervision is required for automatically fired boilers
What is a possible cause of a lack of spark in a boiler ignition system?
Electrodes grounded, or porcelain cracked
What should be done if the pilot or low-fire flame is insufficient?
Adjust the pilot or low-fire flame
What is a possible cause of the burner staying on low-fire?
Boiler pressure above high-low fire control setting
What should be done if the programmed combustion control “test/run” switch is in the test position?
Place the test/run switch in the run position
What is a possible cause of no main flame when the pilot or low-fire flame is present?
Supply to main nozzles restricted or cut off
What should be done if the damper motor is not operative?
Check the damper linkage
What is the possible cause of a shutdown during firing due to a faulty flame detector?
Lens dirty or sight tube obstructed
What is the possible cause of shutdown during firing due to a faulty fuel valve?
Defective fuel valve, loose electrical connections
What is the possible cause of air dampers not functioning due to a faulty damper motor?
Inoperative damper motor
What is the possible cause of shutdown during firing due to an improper air-fuel ratio?
Improper air-fuel ratio
What is the possible cause of shutdown during firing due to a faulty limit switch?
Limit switches open, interlocks open, or draft fan motor failure
What is the possible cause of air dampers not functioning due to a faulty damper positioning switch?
Damper positioning switch in wrong position
Learn about the importance of regular checks of hot water heating boilers, including pressure, temperature, and flame condition, to ensure safe and efficient operation. Understand the key components to monitor during unsupervised periods. Test your knowledge on hot water boiler operation!
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