Minnesota Boiler License Practice Exam

If a Magnetrol low water cut off hangs up, what should the boiler operator do?

1. Take apart the low water cut out and check the enclosing tube to see if the steel rod is sticking inside it.

2. Replace the magnets.

3. Replace the floats.

4. Replace the switches.

The correct answer is: Take apart the low water cut out and check the enclosing tube to see if the steel rod is sticking inside it.

When dealing with a Magnetrol low water cut off that is hanging up, it is crucial to first assess the condition of the component directly responsible for its operation. The correct process involves taking apart the low water cut off device and inspecting the enclosing tube to check if the steel rod is sticking inside it. This action targets the potential cause of the malfunction—obstruction in the mechanism. The design of a low water cut off relies on a float mechanism that triggers safety processes when water levels fall too low. If the internal rod or float gets stuck, it can prevent accurate readings, potentially leading to unsafe boiler operation. Therefore, investigating the specific area where mechanical failure might be occurring allows the boiler operator to identify and rectify the issue efficiently. Other options, such as replacing magnets, floats, or switches, may be unnecessary if the underlying issue is simply a mechanical binding. These components may still be in good working condition, and changing them without diagnosing the actual problem could lead to wasted resources and delayed resolutions. Hence, the most logical first step is to inspect the internal mechanics of the low water cut off device.