New York Low Pressure Boiler COF Practice

Which component is essential for maintaining water level in a boiler?

1. Feedwater pump

2. Blowoff valve

3. Pressure relief valve

4. Steam trap

The correct answer is: Feedwater pump

The feedwater pump is essential for maintaining the water level in a boiler because it is responsible for supplying water to the system. In a low-pressure boiler, it ensures that there is always enough water available to generate steam and prevent overheating or damage to the boiler components. This pump compensates for the water that is lost due to steam production, ensuring that the water level remains within safe operating limits. The blowoff valve, while important for draining sediment and sludge, does not play a role in maintaining water levels; it is used primarily for maintenance purposes rather than ongoing operation. The pressure relief valve is crucial for safety by preventing excessive pressure build-up in the boiler but does not influence water level management. Similarly, a steam trap is designed to remove condensate and non-condensable gases from the steam system, but it does not supply or regulate water levels. Thus, the feedwater pump is the key component in maintaining appropriate water levels within the boiler system.