Minnesota Boiler License Practice Exam

What must be placed between two stop valves on the steam outlet and between the header line?

1. Thermocoupler

2. Dial actuated thermostat

3. Drain

4. Pressure gauge

The correct answer is: Drain

A drain must be placed between two stop valves on the steam outlet and between the header line to ensure that any condensate can be removed from the system. This is critical for preventing water hammer, which can cause significant damage to the boiler and associated piping. The presence of condensate can lead to pressure fluctuations and inefficiencies in the steam system, so the drain facilitates proper drainage and allows for the maintenance of optimal operating conditions. In contrast, while thermocouples and dial actuated thermostats are important for monitoring temperature, they do not serve the function of removing condensate. A pressure gauge is vital for indicating system pressure but does not address the need to manage condensate accumulation. Therefore, the necessity of a drain is focused on maintaining system integrity and efficiency.