New York Low Pressure Boiler COF Practice

What is the minimum size for a safety valve in a low pressure boiler?

1. 1 inch

2. 3/4 inch

3. 1/2 inch

4. 2 inches

The correct answer is: 3/4 inch

The minimum size for a safety valve in a low-pressure boiler is determined by various codes and regulations that ensure safety and functionality. A size of 3/4 inch is typically accepted as the minimum requirement because it allows for adequate discharge capacity to prevent dangerous pressure buildup within the boiler. Proper sizing helps ensure that the safety valve can respond effectively to excess pressure, allowing steam or water to escape quickly and prevent a potentially hazardous situation. The other sizes provided either exceed the minimum requirement or do not comply with standard regulations for low-pressure boilers. For instance, choices like 1 inch or 2 inches serve as larger options which can be suitable under certain conditions but are unnecessary for maintaining safety at lower pressures. Similarly, 1/2 inch does not allow the necessary flow rate needed for effective pressure relief, which could compromise boiler safety. Thus, 3/4 inch is the benchmark that balances safety and effectiveness for low-pressure systems.