Steam boilers must be equipped with what type of safety device?

Steam boilers must be equipped with a safety valve to ensure safe operation. The primary function of a safety valve is to automatically release excess pressure from the boiler system. This is crucial because if the steam pressure exceeds the design limits, it can lead to dangerous situations such as explosions or equipment failures. The safety valve is calibrated to open at a predetermined pressure, allowing steam to escape and reducing the pressure within the boiler to safe levels.

While pressure gauges, flow switches, and temperature sensors are also important components in boiler systems for monitoring and controlling operations, they do not serve as safety devices in the same way a safety valve does. The pressure gauge monitors the pressure, flow switches can help ensure proper water flow, and temperature sensors track the temperature of the steam, but only the safety valve actively prevents excessive pressure buildup, which is a key safety concern in steam boiler operations. Therefore, equipping steam boilers with a safety valve is a fundamental requirement in maintaining safety standards and preventing hazardous conditions.