Minnesota Boiler License Practice Exam

If the water in the boiler is below the bottom tri cock, can water be safely added to the boiler?

1. No

2. Only if the pressure is above 15 PSIG

3. Yes if water flows continuously from the gauge glass drain line

4. None of the answers given

The correct answer is: Yes if water flows continuously from the gauge glass drain line

The correct choice is based on the procedures in boiler operation concerning water levels and safety protocols. When the water in the boiler is below the bottom try cock, it is an indication that the water level is critically low, which poses a safety risk including potential overheating and damage to the boiler due to insufficient coolant. Adding water to the boiler under these conditions can be safe, but specific precautions should be followed. If water flows continuously from the gauge glass drain line when filling, it indicates that the water level is rising and that the system is able to accept additional water without creating dangerous overpressure or risking the integrity of the system. This means that the boiler is being filled properly, allowing for necessary precautions to be in place to prevent any hazardous situations. If the pressure were below safe limits or the gauge glass does not demonstrate that filling is occurring as intended, it may lead to complications. Thus, relying on the indicator of continuous flow from the gauge glass drain line provides assurance that the operational systems are functioning correctly and safely.