Which device is used to extinguish a solid fuel boiler fire when water level is low?

Which device is used to extinguish a solid fuel boiler fire when water level is low?

• A. Fusible Plug
• B. Safety Valve
• C. Water Column
• D. Thermometer

Answer: (A)

When water in a solid-fuel boiler runs low, the firebox can overheat. A fusible plug is a safety device built into the firebox crown that contains a low-melt alloy. If the temperature rises because water isn’t cooling the fire, the alloy melts and creates an opening that allows water from the boiler to flood into the firebox. That influx cools the fuel and quenches the flame, preventing overheating or an explosion. The other options play different roles: a safety valve releases steam to prevent overpressure, a water column shows the water level, and a thermometer measures temperature. None of those will automatically flood the firebox to extinguish the fire.

When water in a solid-fuel boiler runs low, the firebox can overheat. A fusible plug is a safety device built into the firebox crown that contains a low-melt alloy. If the temperature rises because water isn’t cooling the fire, the alloy melts and creates an opening that allows water from the boiler to flood into the firebox. That influx cools the fuel and quenches the flame, preventing overheating or an explosion. The other options play different roles: a safety valve releases steam to prevent overpressure, a water column shows the water level, and a thermometer measures temperature. None of those will automatically flood the firebox to extinguish the fire.