Alberta Boilers Safety Association (ABSA) Practice Test

Which component is essential for the safe operation of high-pressure boilers?

1. Water treatment system

2. Pressure relief valve

3. Condensate return line

4. Feedwater pump

The correct answer is: Pressure relief valve

The pressure relief valve is a crucial component for the safe operation of high-pressure boilers. Its primary function is to protect the boiler from excessive pressure, which could lead to dangerous conditions such as system failures or catastrophic explosions. The pressure relief valve automatically opens to release steam or water if the internal pressure exceeds a predetermined safe limit, thus preventing potential hazards. While other components like the water treatment system, condensate return line, and feedwater pump play vital roles in the overall operation and efficiency of a high-pressure boiler, they do not directly address the safety aspect related to pressure management. The water treatment system helps prevent corrosion and scaling, the condensate return line facilitates the recycling of steam back into the system, and the feedwater pump is critical for supplying water to the boiler. However, these components do not have the same immediate safety function as the pressure relief valve, making it an essential part of high-pressure boiler operations.