Boiler protection on dangerously low water level — identify the device Name the device used to automatically extinguish the furnace fire when water level in the boiler falls to an unsafe limit.
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Ablow-off cock
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Bstop valve
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Csuperheater
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Dnone of these
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Eeconomiser
Answer
Correct Answer: none of these
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Low-water conditions are among the most serious boiler hazards. A dedicated device exists to protect the furnace and heating surfaces when water level drops below a safe value, preventing metal overheating and potential failure.Given Data / Assumptions:
- Standard shell or fire-tube boiler with a furnace crown exposed to flame.
- Water level monitoring and safety devices installed.
Concept / Approach:The correct device is the fusible plug, which melts at a predetermined temperature when it is no longer covered by water, releasing steam/water into the furnace to quench the fire and alert operators. Since “fusible plug” is not listed among the options provided, the correct selection here is “none of these.”
Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the hazard: low water causes furnace plate overheating.Match the protective device: fusible plug (missing from the list).Therefore, among given choices, select “none of these.”Verification / Alternative check:Boiler mountings list includes: safety valve, stop valve, water-level gauge, pressure gauge, blow-off cock, and fusible plug—the last of which handles low-water hazards.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Blow-off cock: drains sludge/water, not automatic fire extinction.
- Stop valve: isolates steam line.
- Superheater/economiser: heat exchangers; no protective role for low water.
Common Pitfalls:Confusing blow-off cock with an emergency dump; believing the safety valve responds to low water—it does not.
Final Answer:
none of these