Minnesota Special Engineer Boiler License Practice Exam

After blowing down the water column, what should you observe in the gauge glass?

1. It should be empty

2. Water should reenter promptly

3. Water should remain still

4. It should overflow

The correct answer is: Water should reenter promptly

When you blow down the water column in a boiler, the primary purpose is to remove sludge and sediment that can accumulate at the bottom of the gauge glass. After this process, it is important to observe how the gauge glass reacts. The correct observation is that water should reenter promptly into the gauge glass. This indicates that the water level is being restored after the blowdown. The gauge glass should refill to show an accurate indication of the water level in the boiler. If the water does not reenter quickly, it may suggest that there is a blockage, problems with the water supply, or that the boiler is low on water, which could indicate a potentially unsafe situation. Understanding this ensures that the operator can monitor the water level accurately, which is critical for safe boiler operation. Regularly checking for this prompt reentry helps maintain proper water levels necessary for effective and safe boiler function.