New York Low Pressure Boiler COF Practice

When is a water column required to have a shield or sleeve?

1. When operating at any temperature

2. When pressure exceeds 300 psig

3. When pressure exceeds 400 psig

4. When the boiler is last inspected

The correct answer is: When pressure exceeds 400 psig

A water column is required to have a shield or sleeve when the pressure exceeds 400 psig. This is because maintaining integrity and safety in high-pressure systems is critical. At pressures above this threshold, the risk of leaks or ruptures increases, necessitating additional protective measures to ensure the safety of the boiler operation and the personnel who may be in the vicinity. The shield or sleeve provides an extra layer of safety by containing any potential hazards that could arise from high-pressure conditions, thereby preventing accidents or equipment failure. It is important to note that lower pressure levels do not warrant this requirement, as the inherent risks are lower and the structural integrity of the water column can usually be maintained without additional shielding. This ensures that the design and operational standards align with safety best practices while also being cost-effective in standard operating procedures for boilers.