In 1918, the US Fuel Administration published a bulletin urging engineers and firemen to regularly test their boilers. What was the primary reason behind this initiative?
- To improve the efficiency of steam-powered plants
- To increase the production of steam
- To reduce the cost of coal
- To make sure boilers were operating safely
Correct Answer: To improve the efficiency of steam-powered plants
Correct Answer Explanation: The bulletin was published during World War I, when fuel shortages were a major concern. The US Fuel Administration aimed to conserve fuel by promoting efficient operation of boilers and furnaces.
What was the main factor contributing to fuel waste in boiler plants, according to the 1918 bulletin?
- Dirty heating surfaces
- Poor quality coal
- Excess air
- Leaky steam valves
Correct Answer: Excess air
Correct Answer Explanation: Excess air refers to air entering the furnace that is not needed for complete combustion. This leads to heat loss and reduces boiler efficiency. The bulletin emphasized the importance of controlling draft and sealing leaks to minimize excess air.
How did engineers in 1918 measure the amount of coal used during a boiler test?
- Using a flowmeter
- Using a thermometer
- Using a scale
- Using a stopwatch
Correct Answer: Using a scale
Correct Answer Explanation: The bulletin recommended using a wheelbarrow and platform scales to accurately weigh the coal used during a boiler test. This was a common method in 1918 for measuring fuel consumption.
What was the estimated amount of coal that could be saved annually by improving steam-power plant operations in 1918?
- 1 to 5 million tons
- 25 to 50 million tons
- 100 to 200 million tons
- 500 to 1000 million tons
Correct Answer: 25 to 50 million tons
Correct Answer Explanation: The bulletin highlighted the significant potential for coal savings through efficiency improvements. It estimated that 25 to 50 million tons of coal could be saved annually by optimizing boiler operation.
What is the definition of a boiler horsepower?
- The amount of steam produced per hour
- The amount of water evaporated per hour from and at 212° F
- The amount of heat energy transferred from the furnace to the water
- The amount of pressure generated in the boiler
Correct Answer: The amount of water evaporated per hour from and at 212° F
Correct Answer Explanation: Boiler horsepower is a standard unit of measure for boiler capacity. It is defined as the evaporation of 34.5 pounds of water per hour from and at 212° F. This standard allows for comparison of different boilers’ performance.
What was the main reason why keeping the boiler surfaces clean was essential for efficient operation?
- It prevented rust and corrosion
- It improved the heat transfer from the hot gases to the water
- It reduced the risk of explosions
- It made the boiler easier to inspect
Correct Answer: It improved the heat transfer from the hot gases to the water
Correct Answer Explanation: Soot and scale buildup on the boiler surfaces acts as an insulator, hindering the transfer of heat from the hot gases to the water. Cleaning these surfaces improves heat transfer, leading to higher boiler efficiency and reduced fuel consumption.
What was the recommended way to fire a boiler to achieve better combustion and reduce fuel consumption?
- Firing quickly and in large amounts
- Firing slowly and in small amounts
- Firing continuously at a constant rate
- Firing intermittently based on steam demand
Correct Answer: Firing slowly and in small amounts
Correct Answer Explanation: The bulletin recommended firing often and little at a time. This approach allowed for more uniform combustion conditions and reduced the amount of unburnt coal falling through the grates.
What was the recommended method for controlling draft in a boiler?
- Using the ash pit doors
- Using the uptake damper
- Using a fan
- Using a chimney
Correct Answer: Using the uptake damper
Correct Answer Explanation: The uptake damper, located in the boiler’s flue, allows for precise control of draft. This control is essential for minimizing excess air and improving combustion efficiency.
Why did the bulletin discourage stirring the fire in a boiler?
- It could cause the fire to go out
- It could lead to clinker formation and fuel waste
- It could damage the grates
- It could create excessive smoke
Correct Answer: It could lead to clinker formation and fuel waste
Correct Answer Explanation: Stirring the fire could lead to clinker formation, which are hard, fused masses of ash that hinder air flow and reduce efficiency. Maintaining a stable fire bed was considered more efficient than frequent stirring.
What was the recommended range for boiler efficiency in 1918?
- 40 to 50 percent
- 50 to 60 percent
- 60 to 70 percent
- 70 to 80 percent
Correct Answer: 60 to 70 percent
Correct Answer Explanation: The bulletin suggested that a hand-fired boiler should have an efficiency of at least 65 percent, and with careful management, it could reach up to 70 percent efficiency. This range served as a benchmark for efficient operation and provided a target for improvement efforts.
What was the key factor used to adjust the actual evaporation to the standard condition of “from and at 212° F.” in the 1918 bulletin?
- Steam pressure
- Coal quality
- Boiler size
- Factor of evaporation
Correct Answer: Factor of evaporation
Correct Answer Explanation: The factor of evaporation is a value used to adjust the actual evaporation of water to the standard condition of evaporating water from and at 212° F. This adjustment accounts for variations in feed water temperature and steam pressure, allowing for accurate comparison of boiler performance.
What was the estimated cost of evaporating 1,000 pounds of water from and at 212° F. in the example boiler test in the bulletin?
- $0.10
- $0.24
- $0.35
- $0.50
Correct Answer: $0.24
Correct Answer Explanation: The example boiler test used a coal cost of $3.60 per ton, and the equivalent evaporation was calculated as 7.5 pounds per pound of coal. This resulted in a cost of $0.24 for evaporating 1,000 pounds of water from and at 212° F.
What was the approximate heating value of the coal used in the example boiler test in the 1918 bulletin?
- 8,000 B.t.u.
- 11,000 B.t.u.
- 13,500 B.t.u.
- 16,000 B.t.u.
Correct Answer: 13,500 B.t.u.
Correct Answer Explanation: The example boiler test assumed a heating value of 13,500 B.t.u. per pound of coal. This value was used in calculating the boiler efficiency and the equivalent evaporation.
What was the primary focus of the US Fuel Administration in publishing this bulletin?
- To increase the production of steam
- To educate engineers and firemen on boiler operations
- To promote fuel conservation efforts during World War I
- To standardize boiler testing methods
Correct Answer: To promote fuel conservation efforts during World War I
Correct Answer Explanation: The bulletin was published during World War I, when fuel shortages were a major concern. The US Fuel Administration aimed to conserve fuel by promoting efficient operation of boilers and furnaces.
What was the estimated percentage increase in steam production that could be achieved by improving boiler efficiency from 54% to 65%?
- 5%
- 10%
- 15%
- 20%
Correct Answer: 20%
Correct Answer Explanation: Achieving a 65% efficiency instead of 54% would result in an approximate 20% increase in steam production from the same weight of coal. This demonstrates the significant benefits of efficiency improvements in terms of fuel savings and increased output.
Why was it important to regularly inspect and maintain the boiler setting, according to the 1918 bulletin?
- To prevent leaks and minimize excess air
- To prevent corrosion and rust
- To make sure the boiler was operating safely
- To improve the appearance of the boiler
Correct Answer: To prevent leaks and minimize excess air
Correct Answer Explanation: Air leaks in the boiler setting can lead to excess air entering the furnace, reducing efficiency and wasting fuel. Regular inspections and maintenance, including sealing leaks, are essential for optimal boiler performance.
What was the primary objective of the example boiler test outlined in the bulletin?
- To demonstrate the effectiveness of different firing methods
- To highlight the importance of regular boiler inspections
- To calculate the boiler efficiency and horsepower
- To compare the performance of different types of coal
Correct Answer: To calculate the boiler efficiency and horsepower
Correct Answer Explanation: The example boiler test was intended to illustrate the process of calculating boiler efficiency and horsepower. It used specific measurements of coal consumption, water evaporation, and other parameters to determine the boiler’s performance.
What was the estimated percentage of rated capacity developed during the example boiler test in the bulletin?
- 50%
- 65%
- 73%
- 85%
Correct Answer: 73%
Correct Answer Explanation: The example boiler had a rated horsepower of 150, but the test measured a developed horsepower of 109, representing 73% of its rated capacity. This illustrates the concept of utilizing the full potential of the boiler for efficient operation.
What was the estimated amount of water evaporated per pound of coal in the example boiler test in the 1918 bulletin?
- 5 pounds
- 7 pounds
- 9 pounds
- 11 pounds
Correct Answer: 7 pounds
Correct Answer Explanation: The example boiler test recorded an actual evaporation of 7 pounds of water per pound of coal. This figure is used to calculate the boiler efficiency and equivalent evaporation.
What was the main purpose of the Bureau of Mines bulletin mentioned in the 1918 text?
- To provide information on boiler design and construction
- To provide guidance on efficient boiler operation
- To provide analyses and heating values of different coal types
- To investigate boiler explosions and accidents
Correct Answer: To provide analyses and heating values of different coal types
Correct Answer Explanation: The Bureau of Mines bulletin mentioned in the text provided information on the properties of various coal types from different US regions. This information was crucial for understanding the energy content of the coal used in a specific boiler and for calculating boiler efficiency.
Which of the following factors was NOT considered a major cause of low boiler efficiency in the 1918 bulletin?
- Excess air
- Dirty heating surfaces
- Improper firing techniques
- Low quality coal
Correct Answer: Low quality coal
Correct Answer Explanation: While coal quality does affect boiler performance, the 1918 bulletin focused on preventable causes of low efficiency like excess air, dirty surfaces, and inefficient firing techniques. It aimed to optimize boiler operation with whatever coal was available during wartime.
What was the typical range for the heating surface area per horsepower in stationary boilers, as mentioned in the 1918 bulletin?
- 5 to 7 square feet
- 10 to 12 square feet
- 15 to 18 square feet
- 20 to 25 square feet
Correct Answer: 10 to 12 square feet
Correct Answer Explanation: The bulletin mentioned a common ratio of 10 or 12 square feet of heating surface per horsepower in stationary boilers. This relationship is used in calculating the rated horsepower of a boiler based on its heating surface area.
What is the latent heat of steam at atmospheric pressure, as mentioned in the 1918 bulletin?
- 540 B.t.u.
- 970.4 B.t.u.
- 1,100 B.t.u.
- 1,500 B.t.u.
Correct Answer: 970.4 B.t.u.
Correct Answer Explanation: The latent heat of steam at atmospheric pressure refers to the amount of heat energy needed to change water at 212° F into steam at the same temperature. The bulletin states this value as 970.4 B.t.u. per pound of water.
How was the equivalent evaporation calculated in the 1918 bulletin?
- By multiplying the actual evaporation by the factor of evaporation
- By dividing the actual evaporation by the factor of evaporation
- By adding the actual evaporation and the factor of evaporation
- By subtracting the actual evaporation from the factor of evaporation
Correct Answer: By multiplying the actual evaporation by the factor of evaporation
Correct Answer Explanation: The equivalent evaporation is calculated by multiplying the actual evaporation by the factor of evaporation. This adjustment accounts for variations in feed water temperature and steam pressure, allowing for accurate comparison of boiler performance.
What was the recommended approach for improving boiler efficiency, as outlined in the 1918 bulletin?
- Implementing advanced boiler designs
- Using higher quality coal
- Optimizing boiler operation and maintenance
- Replacing outdated boilers
Correct Answer: Optimizing boiler operation and maintenance
Correct Answer Explanation: The bulletin emphasized that even seemingly small adjustments in operating practices, like sealing leaks and maintaining clean surfaces, could yield significant fuel savings. This focus on operational improvements was key to conserving fuel during wartime.
What was the significance of the US Fuel Administration in publishing this bulletin in 1918?
- It highlighted the importance of boiler efficiency in wartime
- It showed the government’s commitment to promoting industrial innovation
- It illustrated the role of government in regulating boiler safety
- It demonstrated the need for a standardized approach to boiler testing
Correct Answer: It highlighted the importance of boiler efficiency in wartime
Correct Answer Explanation: The bulletin was published during World War I, when fuel shortages were a major concern. The US Fuel Administration aimed to conserve fuel by promoting efficient operation of boilers and furnaces, highlighting the importance of energy efficiency in supporting the war effort.
What was the recommended approach for sealing leaks in the boiler setting, as mentioned in the 1918 bulletin?
- Using a sealant
- Using a sealant and a torch
- Using a torch
- Using a patch
Correct Answer: Using a sealant and a torch
Correct Answer Explanation: The bulletin recommended using a torch to identify air leaks in the boiler setting and then sealing those leaks with a sealant. This approach was effective in preventing excess air from entering the furnace and improving efficiency.
Which of the following was NOT a recommended practice for improving boiler efficiency in the 1918 bulletin?
- Cleaning heating surfaces regularly
- Firing often and little at a time
- Using a damper to control draft
- Using a fan to force air into the furnace
Correct Answer: Using a fan to force air into the furnace
Correct Answer Explanation: The bulletin focused on optimizing natural draft and controlling the amount of air entering the furnace. Using a fan to force air in would likely lead to excess air and reduce efficiency, contradicting the bulletin’s emphasis on minimizing excess air.
Why did the 1918 bulletin recommend covering steam pipes and boiler tops with insulation?
- To prevent rust and corrosion
- To improve the appearance of the boiler
- To minimize heat loss and improve efficiency
- To prevent steam leaks
Correct Answer: To minimize heat loss and improve efficiency
Correct Answer Explanation: The bulletin highlighted the importance of minimizing heat loss through insulation. Covering steam pipes and boiler tops with insulation helps to prevent heat radiation and loss, contributing to increased efficiency and fuel savings.
What was the main factor considered when calculating the cost of evaporating 1,000 pounds of water from and at 212° F., as outlined in the 1918 bulletin?
- The boiler horsepower
- The factor of evaporation
- The coal price
- The heating surface area
Correct Answer: The coal price
Correct Answer Explanation: The cost of evaporating 1,000 pounds of water was calculated based on the coal price and the equivalent evaporation. This provided a metric for evaluating the economic performance of the boiler and highlighting the cost savings that could be achieved through improved efficiency.
What was the primary message conveyed by the 1918 Engineering Bulletin regarding boiler testing?
- Boiler testing is a complex process that requires specialized equipment.
- Regular boiler testing is crucial for identifying and reducing fuel waste.
- Boiler testing should be performed only by trained professionals.
- Boiler testing is a costly and time-consuming process.
Correct Answer: Regular boiler testing is crucial for identifying and reducing fuel waste.
Correct Answer Explanation: The bulletin emphasized that regular boiler testing is essential for identifying and addressing inefficiencies that lead to fuel waste. By implementing the recommended practices, plant operators could significantly improve efficiency and contribute to both economic efficiency and national resource conservation.
What is the significance of the factor of evaporation in boiler testing?
- It helps determine the quality of the coal being used.
- It allows for the accurate calculation of boiler horsepower.
- It adjusts the actual evaporation to the standard condition of “from and at 212° F.”
- It provides a measure of the boiler’s safety.
Correct Answer: It adjusts the actual evaporation to the standard condition of “from and at 212° F.”
Correct Answer Explanation: The factor of evaporation is crucial in accurately calculating boiler efficiency. It accounts for variations in feed water temperature and steam pressure, allowing for accurate comparison of boiler performance.
What was the estimated amount of water evaporated during the example boiler test in the 1918 bulletin?
- 10,000 pounds
- 25,000 pounds
- 35,000 pounds
- 50,000 pounds
Correct Answer: 35,000 pounds
Correct Answer Explanation: The example boiler test recorded a total of 35,000 pounds of water evaporated during the 10-hour test period. This provides context for the volume of water processed by the boiler during the test.
Which of the following practices was NOT mentioned in the 1918 bulletin as a way to prevent clinker formation?
- Maintaining a clean ash pit
- Firing often and little at a time
- Stirring the fire bed regularly
- Avoiding excessive air flow
Correct Answer: Stirring the fire bed regularly
Correct Answer Explanation: The bulletin discouraged stirring the fire bed, as it could lead to clinker formation. Maintaining a clean ash pit, firing often and little at a time, and avoiding excessive air flow were all recommended practices for preventing clinker formation.
What was the main reason for the urgent need for efficient energy utilization in wartime, as highlighted in the 1918 bulletin?
- To increase industrial production
- To support the war effort
- To reduce the cost of production
- To improve public perception of industry
Correct Answer: To support the war effort
Correct Answer Explanation: The bulletin was published during World War I, when fuel shortages were a major concern. The US Fuel Administration aimed to conserve fuel by promoting efficient operation of boilers and furnaces, highlighting the importance of energy efficiency in supporting the war effort.
What was the recommended approach for determining the heating value of coal, as mentioned in the 1918 bulletin?
- Using a calorimeter test
- Using a combustion analysis
- Using a visual inspection
- Using a coal-type identification chart
Correct Answer: Using a calorimeter test
Correct Answer Explanation: The bulletin highlighted the importance of fuel analysis in understanding the potential energy content of coal. A calorimeter test is used to determine the heating value of coal, which is essential for calculating boiler efficiency and equivalent evaporation.
What was the estimated duration of the example boiler test in the 1918 bulletin?
- 5 hours
- 10 hours
- 15 hours
- 20 hours
Correct Answer: 10 hours
Correct Answer Explanation: The example boiler test lasted for 10 hours, showcasing the importance of extending tests for more accurate results. Longer tests provide more representative data for calculating efficiency and other performance metrics.
What was the main factor that influenced the heat required to evaporate water, as mentioned in the 1918 bulletin?
- The coal quality
- The boiler size
- The feed water temperature and steam pressure
- The heating surface area
Correct Answer: The feed water temperature and steam pressure
Correct Answer Explanation: The bulletin emphasized that the heat required to evaporate water depends on the feed water temperature and the steam pressure. This explains why the factor of evaporation is crucial in accurately calculating boiler efficiency and provides a basis for understanding the influence of operational parameters on fuel consumption.
What was the estimated average steam pressure during the example boiler test in the 1918 bulletin?
- 50 pounds per square inch
- 75 pounds per square inch
- 100 pounds per square inch
- 125 pounds per square inch
Correct Answer: 100 pounds per square inch
Correct Answer Explanation: The example boiler test recorded an average steam pressure of 100 pounds per square inch. This value is important for calculating the factor of evaporation and the equivalent evaporation, which are used in determining boiler efficiency.
What was the estimated average feed water temperature during the example boiler test in the 1918 bulletin?
- 150° F
- 180° F
- 212° F
- 250° F
Correct Answer: 180° F
Correct Answer Explanation: The example boiler test recorded an average feed water temperature of 180° F. This value is important for calculating the factor of evaporation, which is used in determining boiler efficiency.
What was the estimated amount of coal fired during the example boiler test in the 1918 bulletin?
- 2,500 pounds
- 5,000 pounds
- 7,500 pounds
- 10,000 pounds
Correct Answer: 5,000 pounds
Correct Answer Explanation: The example boiler test used a total of 5,000 pounds of coal. This provides context for the scale of operation during the test and highlights the amount of fuel consumed to evaporate the measured amount of water.
What was the estimated boiler efficiency in the example boiler test in the 1918 bulletin?
- 45%
- 54%
- 65%
- 75%
Correct Answer: 54%
Correct Answer Explanation: The example boiler test resulted in a calculated boiler efficiency of 54%. This value highlights the potential for improvement in achieving higher efficiencies and reducing fuel waste.
What was the estimated boiler horsepower developed during the example boiler test in the 1918 bulletin?
- 50 horsepower
- 75 horsepower
- 109 horsepower
- 150 horsepower
Correct Answer: 109 horsepower
Correct Answer Explanation: The example boiler test measured a developed horsepower of 109, indicating the power output of the boiler during the test. This value is used to assess the boiler’s performance in terms of steam production capacity.
What was the estimated total weight of coal fired during the example boiler test in the 1918 bulletin?
- 2,500 pounds
- 5,000 pounds
- 7,500 pounds
- 10,000 pounds
Correct Answer: 5,000 pounds
Correct Answer Explanation: The example boiler test used a total of 5,000 pounds of coal. This provides context for the scale of operation during the test and highlights the amount of fuel consumed to evaporate the measured amount of water.
What was the main purpose of the 1918 Engineering Bulletin regarding boiler and furnace testing?
- To promote the use of new boiler designs
- To encourage the use of higher quality coal
- To improve the efficiency of steam-powered plants
- To standardize boiler testing methods
Correct Answer: To improve the efficiency of steam-powered plants
Correct Answer Explanation: The bulletin was published during World War I, when fuel shortages were a major concern. The US Fuel Administration aimed to conserve fuel by promoting efficient operation of boilers and furnaces. This focus on improving efficiency was crucial for supporting the war effort and conserving national resources.