New York Low Pressure Boiler COF Practice

At what percent do you hydrostatically test a boiler?

1. 100%

2. 150%

3. 200%

4. 250%

The correct answer is: 150%

The hydrostatic test for a boiler is typically conducted at 150% of the maximum allowable working pressure (MAWP). This means that when you perform a hydrostatic test, you are pressurizing the boiler system to ensure its integrity and safety at a level that is higher than it would normally experience during operation. By testing at this higher pressure—150%—you can identify any weaknesses or potential failures in the system, ensuring that it can handle its regular operating pressures safely. It is a crucial safety measure in confirming that the boiler and its components are capable of withstanding operational conditions without risking leaks or catastrophic failures. Testing at lower percentages would not effectively verify the safety margins built into the design, while testing at higher percentages could be unnecessarily risky and might result in damage to the boiler system.