114 Questions
EASY What is the primary reason for ensuring the boiler pressure is not higher than necessary?
To prevent safety valves from weeping or simmering
What happens if the safety valve is subjected to pressure at or near its set pressure?
The valve will weep or simmer, causing deposits to accumulate
What is the recommended difference in pressure between the safety relief valve and the maximum operating pressure?
The greater of 70 kPa or 25% of the safety valve setting
What is the most important rule in the safe operation of steam boilers?
To keep water in the boiler at the proper level
What accumulates in areas of slow boiler water circulation?
Precipitated sediment
What is the gauge glass primarily used for?
To monitor water level
What is the purpose of checking the combustion air intake to the boiler room?
To remove obstructions
What happens if the boiler pressure exceeds the safety valve setting?
The boiler will rupture
What is the primary function of the operating control?
To maintain the boiler pressure at set point
What should be done if the flame is smoky?
Take the necessary action to correct the conditions
Why is it necessary to blow through the gauge glass, water column, low water cut-offs, and boiler connecting piping regularly?
To ensure the lines are clear and sediment cannot accumulate in the float cages
What can be an indicator of condensate system corrosiveness?
Condensate pH
What is the primary reason for continuous supervision of larger capacity steam boilers?
To ensure public safety
What can cause foaming in boilers?
All of the above
What is the purpose of a low water fuel cut-off (LWCO) in a steam boiler?
To shut off the fuel supply in case of low water levels
What is the purpose of soot blowing?
To remove soot and ash from the heating surfaces
Why is it necessary to regularly test the low water fuel cut-offs?
To prove the control will shut off the boiler
What should be the color of the burner flame when burning natural gas?
Predominantly blue
What is the purpose of a routine inspection in a steam boiler operation?
To identify potential safety hazards and ensure safe operation
How often should the gauge glass and water column be blown down if a considerable amount of make-up water is used?
Daily
What is the purpose of isolating the feedwater and blowing off the boiler?
To test the low water cut-off
What should an operator check regularly in a steam boiler?
All of the above, including LWCO, heat transfer, and feedwater quality
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 significance of a white plume in the chimney during combustion?
It indicates the presence of water vapour from the combustion process
What can be the cause of poor heat transfer?
All of the above
What is the purpose of a housekeeping task in a steam boiler operation?
To ensure a clean and safe working environment
What is the purpose of a log book entry in a steam boiler operation?
To record operator duties and activities
What is necessary to ensure the boiler is operating efficiently?
Regular tests of water conditions
What is the primary purpose of chart recorders in larger plants?
To track steam production, fuel flow, and flue gas temperature
Why is it necessary to monitor the make-up water flow?
To calculate the percentage of make-up water used
What is the purpose of blowing off the boilers?
To reduce the concentration of dissolved and suspended solids
Why is it important to keep the boiler room and equipment clean?
To reduce the risk of accidents and fire hazards
What should be done to the filter of the fuel pump if necessary?
Clean the filter
Why is it preferable to feed make-up water into the condensate tank?
Because the condensate will raise the temperature of the make-up water
What should be recorded in the daily log?
The CBD setting, boiler water conductivity, and any adverse conditions
What is the purpose of backwashing filters?
To remove solids from the filters
Why is it necessary to check the operation of the auxiliary equipment?
To detect any unusual noises or conditions
What should be done to the boiler water to give it the greatest protection?
Determine the amount of chemicals required based on test results
What is the primary reason for continuous supervision of larger capacity steam boilers?
To ensure the safe operation of the boiler
What is the purpose of checking the flue gas temperature?
To optimize the heat transfer efficiency
What should an operator check regularly in a steam boiler?
The burner operation, flue gas temperature, steam pressure, and water level
What is the significance of a white plume in the chimney during combustion?
It indicates the presence of water vapour from the combustion process
What is the purpose of the boiler water treatment tests?
To prevent corrosion and scaling in the boiler
What is the purpose of the routine inspection in a steam boiler operation?
To ensure the safe operation of the boiler and identify potential issues
What should an operator do to ensure the boiler is operating efficiently?
Perform regular inspections and tests
What is the purpose of the log book entry in a steam boiler operation?
To record the results of the routine inspections and tests
MEDIUM What is the likely cause of a smoky flame in an oil-fired boiler?
Incorrect air-fuel ratio
What should be done to prevent the boiler pressure from exceeding the safety valve setting?
Ensure the operating control cut-off is set to prevent the boiler pressure from approaching the setting of the safety valve
What is the purpose of the gauge glass in a steam boiler?
To indicate the boiler water level
What is the recommended difference in pressure between the safety relief valve and the maximum operating pressure for a hot water heating boiler?
The greater of 70 kPa or 25% of the safety valve setting
What should be done if the boiler load increases?
Increase the fuel feed rate
What accumulates in areas of slow boiler water circulation?
Sediment
What is the purpose of checking the combustion air intake to the boiler room?
To remove obstructions from the outside or inside of the intake
What is the recommended difference in pressure between the safety relief valve and the maximum operating pressure for a steam power boiler?
10% of the safety valve setting, but not less than 50 kPa
What should be done to correct a dirty burner nozzle?
Hire a certified burner technician to perform combustion analysis
What is the purpose of the operating control in a steam boiler?
To control the fuel feed rate
What is the primary reason for blowing through the gauge glass, water column, low water cut-offs, and boiler connecting piping regularly?
To ensure the lines are clear and sediment cannot accumulate in the float cages
What is the purpose of checking the return line and other parts of the system for evidence of corrosion?
To ensure the water treatment chemicals are at the proper concentration
What is the primary cause of a wide fluctuation of the water level in the boiler?
The boiler is foaming or priming
What is the purpose of using antifoam chemicals in a boiler?
To control mild cases of foaming
What is the primary purpose of testing a low water cut-off?
To prove the control will trip the boiler
What is the primary reason for keeping the heating surfaces free from soot and ash?
To ensure efficient heat transfer
What is the primary purpose of regular monitoring of the flue gas temperature and steam production?
To indicate heat exchanger fouling
What is the primary purpose of blowing down the gauge glass and water column?
To remove sediment and ensure the lines are clear
What is the primary reason for checking the boiler water to ensure the water treatment chemicals are at the proper concentration?
To prevent rust in the gauge glass
What is the primary purpose of isolating the feedwater and blowing off the boiler?
To test the low water cut-off
What is the purpose of taking samples of the boiler water, deaerated feedwater, and condensate?
To determine the amount of chemicals required for the boiler
What should be done to the boiler if the concentration of dissolved and suspended solids exceeds the maximum allowed?
Increase the continuous blowdown
Why is it necessary to monitor the make-up water flow?
To calculate the percentage of make-up water used
What should be done to the mixing tanks and pot feeders after determining the amount of chemicals required?
Fill the mixing tanks and pot feeders accordingly
What is the purpose of inspecting the boiler?
To find any signs of leakage or unusual noises
Why is it important to keep the boiler room and equipment clean?
To prevent fire hazards
What should be done to the boiler water to give it the greatest protection?
Determine the amount of chemicals required
Why is it preferable to feed make-up water into the condensate tank?
To release the dissolved gases in the water
What should be recorded in the Boiler Room Log?
Each test performed, the time of the test, and the result of the test
What is the purpose of checking the external water treatment equipment?
To ensure the filters are backwashed or ion exchange softeners are regenerated
What is the primary purpose of daily routine activities in steam boiler operation?
To ensure the safe operation of the boilers under their care
What is the significance of a predominantly blue flame when burning natural gas?
It indicates that the combustion process is complete
What is the purpose of checking the low water fuel cut-offs regularly?
To ensure the safe operation of the boilers
What is the primary purpose of a routine inspection in steam boiler operation?
To identify areas of the boiler that need maintenance
What is the purpose of monitoring the make-up water flow?
To maintain the correct water level in the boiler
What is the purpose of the feedwater treatment tests?
To ensure the quality of the feedwater
What is the primary purpose of the boiler water treatment tests?
To ensure the quality of the boiler water
What is the significance of observing the condition of the burner flame?
It indicates the combustion process is complete
HARD What is the likely cause of a boiler flame that is not smoky?
Correct air-fuel ratio
What is the purpose of checking the combustion air intake to the boiler room?
To ensure adequate combustion air supply
What should be done if the boiler pressure exceeds the safety valve setting?
Reduce the fuel feed to decrease pressure
What is the recommended action if the gauge glass is unreliable?
Stop boiler operation
What is the purpose of the operating control?
To monitor the boiler steam pressure
What is the likely cause of precipitated sediment in the boiler?
Areas of slow boiler water circulation
What should be done to prevent the boiler pressure from exceeding the safety valve setting?
Monitor the boiler steam pressure regularly
What is the purpose of the safety valve?
To prevent the boiler pressure from exceeding the safety valve setting
What is the recommended difference in pressure between the safety relief valve and the maximum operating pressure for a power boiler?
50 kPa or 10% of the safety valve setting
What is the purpose of checking the boiler steam pressure regularly?
To ensure the boiler is operating within the set point
What is the primary reason for monitoring the make-up water flow?
To identify potential water leakage in the system
Why is it necessary to perform routine inspections of the boiler?
To identify signs of leakage from safety valves
What is the purpose of blowing off the boilers?
To remove dissolved and suspended solids from the boiler water
What is the significance of a large part of the dissolved gases in the make-up water being released?
It is a result of feeding make-up water into the condensate tank
What is the purpose of maintaining the Boiler Room Log?
To record the results of water treatment tests and conditions observed
Why is it necessary to check the operation of the auxiliary equipment?
To ensure the auxiliary equipment is functioning correctly
What is the primary reason for blowing through the gauge glass, water column, low water cut-offs, and boiler connecting piping regularly?
To ensure the level controls are operative
What is the purpose of the continuous blowdown?
To keep the concentration of dissolved and suspended solids below the maximum allowed
Why is it necessary to keep the boiler room and equipment clean?
To prevent fires and accidents
What is the likely cause of a wide fluctuation of the water level in the boiler?
Foaming or priming due to high steaming rate
What is the purpose of backwashing filters?
To clean the filters and remove any accumulated debris
What is the purpose of soot blowing in a steam boiler?
To allow for the most efficient transfer of heat to boiler water
What is the purpose of testing a low water cut-off regularly?
To prove it will trip the boiler
What is the purpose of chart recorders in larger plants?
To track steam production, fuel flow, and flue gas temperature
What is the purpose of checking the return line and other parts of the system for evidence of corrosion?
To check the water treatment chemicals are at the proper concentration
What is the likely cause of poor heat transfer in a steam boiler?
Scale formation on the heating surfaces or soot and ash accumulation
What is the purpose of isolating the feedwater and blowing off the boiler?
To test the low water cut-off
What should be done to the boiler water to give it the greatest protection?
Properly treat the feedwater, boiler water, and regulate the amount of intermittent and continuous blowdowns
What is the purpose of regularly monitoring the flue gas temperature, firing rate, and steam production?
To ensure the boiler is operating efficiently
What should be done to control mild cases of foaming in the boiler?
Use antifoam chemicals
Study Notes
Steam Boiler Operations
- Larger capacity steam boilers require continuous supervision due to the hazards they pose to public safety.
- Operators must attend to steam pressure, water level, and burner conditions with vigilance.
Daily Routine Activities
- Operators must perform several checks and functions every day, including:
- Burner operation
- Flue gas temperature
- Steam pressure
- Water level
- Low water fuel cut-offs and float-type water level controls
- Heat transfer
- Operator duties include:
- Boiler water treatment tests
- Feedwater treatment tests
- Make-up water monitoring and tests
- Continuous blowdown (CBD) adjustment
- Bottom blowoff
- Routine inspection
- Housekeeping
- Log book entry
Burner Operation and Flue Gas Temperature
- Burner operating principles are the same for hot water and steam boilers.
- Observe the condition of the burner flame:
- Should be bright and symmetrical
- Natural gas flame should be predominantly blue
- Light fuel oil flame should be bright yellow
- Check the chimney for signs of smoking:
- White plume indicates water vapor from combustion
- Smoky flame indicates dirty burner nozzle, low fuel temperature, or incorrect fuel-air ratio
Steam Pressure
- Check the boiler steam pressure to maintain the boiler pressure at set point.
- The amount of fuel burned must correspond to the boiler load.
- The operator must be able to take over from the control system in case of failure.
Water Column and Gauge Glass
- Keep water in the boiler at the proper level.
- Never depend entirely on water level controls, emergency water feeders, or automatic alarms.
- The gauge glass is the primary indicator of boiler water level.
- Blow down the gauge glass and water column regularly to prevent sediment accumulation.
Water Treatment
- Take samples of boiler water, deaerated feedwater, and condensate.
- Perform required tests at intervals outlined in the water treatment program.
- Determine the amount of chemicals required to give the boilers and system the greatest protection.
- Monitor the external water treatment equipment.
Continuous Blowdown
- The continuous blowdown (CBD) should be opened just enough to keep the concentration of dissolved and suspended solids below the maximum allowed.
- Record the CBD setting and the boiler water conductivity in the daily log.
Inspection and Auxiliary Equipment
- Make a full inspection of the boiler to check for signs of leakage.
- Determine the cause of any unusual noises or conditions.
- Check the operation of auxiliary equipment in the boiler room, including:
- Feedwater, condensate, and vacuum pumps
- Fuel pump and fuel level in the tank (for oil-fired boilers)
Housekeeping and Boiler Log
- Keep the boiler room and equipment clean.
- Maintain the Boiler Room Log to record:
- Each test performed, time, and result
- Each condition observed
- Each adverse condition and steps taken to address it
- Sign and date each entry
Make-Up Water
- Use every practical means to exclude oxygen from the boiler water.
- Monitor the make-up water flow and calculate the percentage of make-up water used.
- Unexplained increases in make-up water indicate an abnormal system water loss.
- Feed make-up water into the condensate tank instead of directly into the boiler to reduce oxygen intake.
Steam Boiler Operations
- Larger capacity steam boilers require continuous supervision due to the hazards they pose to public safety.
- Operators must attend to steam pressure, water level, and burner conditions with vigilance.
Daily Routine Activities
- Operators must perform several checks and functions every day, including:
- Burner operation
- Flue gas temperature
- Steam pressure
- Water level
- Low water fuel cut-offs and float-type water level controls
- Heat transfer
- Operator duties include:
- Boiler water treatment tests
- Feedwater treatment tests
- Make-up water monitoring and tests
- Continuous blowdown (CBD) adjustment
- Bottom blowoff
- Routine inspection
- Housekeeping
- Log book entry
Burner Operation and Flue Gas Temperature
- Burner operating principles are the same for hot water and steam boilers.
- Observe the condition of the burner flame:
- Should be bright and symmetrical
- Natural gas flame should be predominantly blue
- Light fuel oil flame should be bright yellow
- Check the chimney for signs of smoking:
- White plume indicates water vapor from combustion
- Smoky flame indicates dirty burner nozzle, low fuel temperature, or incorrect fuel-air ratio
Steam Pressure
- Check the boiler steam pressure to maintain the boiler pressure at set point.
- The amount of fuel burned must correspond to the boiler load.
- The operator must be able to take over from the control system in case of failure.
Water Column and Gauge Glass
- Keep water in the boiler at the proper level.
- Never depend entirely on water level controls, emergency water feeders, or automatic alarms.
- The gauge glass is the primary indicator of boiler water level.
- Blow down the gauge glass and water column regularly to prevent sediment accumulation.
Water Treatment
- Take samples of boiler water, deaerated feedwater, and condensate.
- Perform required tests at intervals outlined in the water treatment program.
- Determine the amount of chemicals required to give the boilers and system the greatest protection.
- Monitor the external water treatment equipment.
Continuous Blowdown
- The continuous blowdown (CBD) should be opened just enough to keep the concentration of dissolved and suspended solids below the maximum allowed.
- Record the CBD setting and the boiler water conductivity in the daily log.
Inspection and Auxiliary Equipment
- Make a full inspection of the boiler to check for signs of leakage.
- Determine the cause of any unusual noises or conditions.
- Check the operation of auxiliary equipment in the boiler room, including:
- Feedwater, condensate, and vacuum pumps
- Fuel pump and fuel level in the tank (for oil-fired boilers)
Housekeeping and Boiler Log
- Keep the boiler room and equipment clean.
- Maintain the Boiler Room Log to record:
- Each test performed, time, and result
- Each condition observed
- Each adverse condition and steps taken to address it
- Sign and date each entry
Make-Up Water
- Use every practical means to exclude oxygen from the boiler water.
- Monitor the make-up water flow and calculate the percentage of make-up water used.
- Unexplained increases in make-up water indicate an abnormal system water loss.
- Feed make-up water into the condensate tank instead of directly into the boiler to reduce oxygen intake.
Steam Boiler Operations
- Larger capacity steam boilers require continuous supervision due to the hazards they pose to public safety.
- Operators must attend to steam pressure, water level, and burner conditions with vigilance.
Daily Routine Activities
- Operators must perform several checks and functions every day, including:
- Burner operation
- Flue gas temperature
- Steam pressure
- Water level
- Low water fuel cut-offs and float-type water level controls
- Heat transfer
- Operator duties include:
- Boiler water treatment tests
- Feedwater treatment tests
- Make-up water monitoring and tests
- Continuous blowdown (CBD) adjustment
- Bottom blowoff
- Routine inspection
- Housekeeping
- Log book entry
Burner Operation and Flue Gas Temperature
- Burner operating principles are the same for hot water and steam boilers.
- Observe the condition of the burner flame:
- Should be bright and symmetrical
- Natural gas flame should be predominantly blue
- Light fuel oil flame should be bright yellow
- Check the chimney for signs of smoking:
- White plume indicates water vapor from combustion
- Smoky flame indicates dirty burner nozzle, low fuel temperature, or incorrect fuel-air ratio
Steam Pressure
- Check the boiler steam pressure to maintain the boiler pressure at set point.
- The amount of fuel burned must correspond to the boiler load.
- The operator must be able to take over from the control system in case of failure.
Water Column and Gauge Glass
- Keep water in the boiler at the proper level.
- Never depend entirely on water level controls, emergency water feeders, or automatic alarms.
- The gauge glass is the primary indicator of boiler water level.
- Blow down the gauge glass and water column regularly to prevent sediment accumulation.
Water Treatment
- Take samples of boiler water, deaerated feedwater, and condensate.
- Perform required tests at intervals outlined in the water treatment program.
- Determine the amount of chemicals required to give the boilers and system the greatest protection.
- Monitor the external water treatment equipment.
Continuous Blowdown
- The continuous blowdown (CBD) should be opened just enough to keep the concentration of dissolved and suspended solids below the maximum allowed.
- Record the CBD setting and the boiler water conductivity in the daily log.
Inspection and Auxiliary Equipment
- Make a full inspection of the boiler to check for signs of leakage.
- Determine the cause of any unusual noises or conditions.
- Check the operation of auxiliary equipment in the boiler room, including:
- Feedwater, condensate, and vacuum pumps
- Fuel pump and fuel level in the tank (for oil-fired boilers)
Housekeeping and Boiler Log
- Keep the boiler room and equipment clean.
- Maintain the Boiler Room Log to record:
- Each test performed, time, and result
- Each condition observed
- Each adverse condition and steps taken to address it
- Sign and date each entry
Make-Up Water
- Use every practical means to exclude oxygen from the boiler water.
- Monitor the make-up water flow and calculate the percentage of make-up water used.
- Unexplained increases in make-up water indicate an abnormal system water loss.
- Feed make-up water into the condensate tank instead of directly into the boiler to reduce oxygen intake.
This quiz covers the safe operation of larger capacity steam boilers and the hazards they pose to public safety. It includes topics such as steam pressure, water level, burner conditions, and safety devices.
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