New York Low Pressure Boiler COF Practice

How are pipes joined together for a boiler operating at 100 psig MAWP?

1. With screws

2. Using flanged or welded connections

3. With crimping

4. Using adhesive

The correct answer is: Using flanged or welded connections

When it comes to joining pipes for a boiler operating at 100 psig MAWP (Maximum Allowable Working Pressure), using flanged or welded connections is the appropriate and safest method. This is because flanged connections provide a robust joining mechanism that can effectively handle the high pressures and temperatures typically found in boiler systems. Additionally, flanged joints allow for ease of maintenance and inspection, as the flanges can be easily opened to access the interior of the piping for repairs or cleaning. Welding, on the other hand, creates a permanent bond between the pipes, which is extremely strong and capable of withstanding the significant stresses associated with high-pressure systems. Welded connections are generally preferred in high-pressure applications because they provide a continuous, seamless integration between the pipes, minimizing the risk of leaks. Other methods such as crimping, adhesive bonding, or using screws are not suitable for high-pressure applications such as those seen with a boiler operating at 100 psig MAWP. Crimping may be used for low-pressure applications but lacks the strength needed for a boiler. Adhesive methods cannot provide the mechanical strength required in high-pressure scenarios, and using screws can also present risks of failure under high pressure and are not commonly employed in this context.