Arkansas Boiler Operator Practice Exam

Should a pressure relief valve activate if the MWAP is exceeded by 6 percent?

1. No

2. Yes

3. Only if pressure rises quickly

4. Only during maintenance

The correct answer is: Yes

The activation of a pressure relief valve is a critical safety feature in boiler operations. A pressure relief valve is designed to protect the boiler and its system from excessive pressure, which can lead to dangerous conditions such as explosions or equipment failure. When the Maximum Allowable Working Pressure (MAWP) is exceeded, even by a small margin—such as 6 percent—it indicates that the pressure within the system is approaching unsafe levels. The role of the pressure relief valve is to relieve this excess pressure automatically to maintain the safety of the system. Therefore, if the pressure exceeds the MAWP, the relief valve should indeed activate to prevent any potential hazards. Understanding the design of pressure relief valves highlights their importance in the overall safety protocol of boiler operations. They are set to open at predetermined pressures, ensuring that any significant increase in pressure is managed effectively. Thus, in scenarios where the pressure exceeds the established limits, the relief valve is mandated to function as a safeguard, hence supporting the assertion that it should activate if the MWAP is exceeded by any percentage, including 6 percent.