New York Low Pressure Boiler COF Practice

What type of valve is commonly used to control pressure within a boiler?

1. Check valve

2. Ball valve

3. Pressure relief valve

4. Solenoid valve

The correct answer is: Pressure relief valve

A pressure relief valve is specifically designed to control pressure within a boiler. Its primary function is to release excess pressure to prevent overpressure situations that could lead to dangerous conditions, including potential explosions. This valve automatically opens at a predetermined pressure level, allowing steam or water to escape safely, thereby maintaining the pressure at a safe level within the boiler system. The other types of valves serve different purposes. For example, a check valve allows fluid to flow in one direction only, preventing backflow, and is used in various piping applications but does not actively regulate pressure. A ball valve provides on/off control of fluid flow but does not adjust the flow based on pressure changes. A solenoid valve, on the other hand, is typically used for controlling the flow of liquids and gases in response to electrical signals and is not specifically designed for pressure management in boilers. Thus, the pressure relief valve is the appropriate choice for controlling pressure within a boiler system.