Minnesota Boiler License Practice Exam

Can a skilled boiler operator use a pressure gauge to indicate a waterlogged expansion tank?

1. No.

2. Only if the boiler is up to pressure.

3. Yes.

4. None of these answers.

The correct answer is: Yes.

A skilled boiler operator can indeed use a pressure gauge to indicate a waterlogged expansion tank. When an expansion tank is functioning properly, it should be partially filled with air, allowing it to absorb excess pressure and maintain a steady operation of the boiler system. However, if the expansion tank becomes waterlogged, it will lose its ability to accommodate water expansion due to heating, resulting in pressure changes within the system. The pressure gauge will reflect this condition by showing an increase in pressure that may indicate the expansion tank is full of water and not allowing for the necessary expansion of steam or water. Thus, regular monitoring of the pressure gauge is an essential practice for operators to identify such issues promptly. By recognizing abnormal pressure readings, an operator can take corrective measures before it leads to system failure or safety hazards.