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.

Mechanical Engineering Steam Boilers and Engines Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
  • A
    blow-off cock
  • B
    stop valve
  • C
    superheater
  • D
    none of these
  • E
    economiser

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
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