Minnesota Boiler License Practice Exam

During operation, how should valves in the feedwater piping be positioned?

1. Always closed

2. Always open

3. Visible and locked in the open position

4. Only manually operated

The correct answer is: Visible and locked in the open position

The correct approach for positioning valves in the feedwater piping during operation is to ensure they are visible and locked in the open position. This is crucial for maintaining a reliable flow of feedwater into the boiler, which is essential for its safe and efficient operation. When valves are locked in the open position, it prevents accidental closure, which could lead to a lack of water flow into the boiler and potentially result in overheating and damage to the system. Visibility is also important for quick verification by operators that the feedwater is adequately supplied, allowing for prompt responses to any potential issues that may arise, such as a drop in water levels. In operation, keeping these valves open is necessary to ensure that the boiler has a consistent supply of water, which is critical for steam production. Other options like keeping valves always closed or only manually operated could compromise the functionality of the feedwater system, while options suggesting they should always be open do not prioritize the safety measures of locking these valves. Thus, the combination of visibility and the locked open position provides an essential safety measure in boiler operation.