New York Low Pressure Boiler COF Practice

At what pressure should safety valves be set?

1. The lowest possible working limit

2. The maximum allowable working pressure

3. The average operational pressure

4. The preset pressure of the safety valve

The correct answer is: The maximum allowable working pressure

Safety valves are critical components in boiler systems, designed to protect the equipment from overpressure situations. They must be set at the maximum allowable working pressure (MAWP) of the boiler. This setting ensures that the safety valve will open and relieve pressure if it exceeds this limit, thus preventing potential damage to the boiler or other components. Setting the safety valve at the MAWP is essential because it is the highest pressure that the boiler is designed to safely handle under normal operating conditions. If the pressure exceeds this threshold, the safety valve will activate to release excess steam or water, effectively maintaining safe operating conditions and preventing catastrophic failures. While the other options might suggest having a safety margin or operating within typical ranges, they do not conform to the regulatory standards and safety requirements essential for the operation of low-pressure boilers. By ensuring that the safety valve is calibrated correctly at the maximum allowable working pressure, it guarantees the protection of the system and personnel involved.