Minnesota Special Engineer Boiler License Practice Exam

How is an ASME approved safety relief valve tested at the factory?

1. By testing hot water first

2. By testing cold water first

3. By testing steam first, then hot water

4. By testing under normal operational pressure

The correct answer is: By testing steam first, then hot water

An ASME approved safety relief valve undergoes a specific testing process at the factory to ensure its reliability and functionality. The correct approach to testing involves starting with steam, followed by hot water. This method is essential because safety relief valves are often used in high-temperature and high-pressure applications, primarily involving steam systems. Testing with steam first allows the manufacturer to simulate the exact conditions under which the valve would function in real-world applications. This step helps identify any potential issues that may arise in a steam service environment, such as leakage or failure to open at the specified set pressure. Following the steam test, hot water is used to further assess the performance and operational reliability of the valve, ensuring it can handle the thermal expansion and pressure variations that might occur in actual service. This two-step testing process confirms that the safety relief valve meets the stringent requirements set forth by the ASME standards, reaffirming its capability to protect against overpressure scenarios effectively.