According to the ASME high pressure boiler code, a boiler that has more than how many square feet of heating surface must have 2 or more safety valves?

The correct answer indicates that according to the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, specifically for high pressure boilers, if a boiler has more than 500 square feet of heating surface, it is required to have two or more safety valves installed. This requirement is put in place to ensure safety, as larger boilers can produce substantial amounts of steam or water under high pressure. By having multiple safety valves, the system is better equipped to relieve excess pressure and prevent dangerous situations like explosions.

The rationale behind this regulation stems from the fact that as the heating surface area of the boiler increases, so does its potential for generating steam and pressure. With greater capacity, the risk associated with pressure failure also escalates. Therefore, having multiple safety valves creates a redundant safety system that can ensure effective pressure management and enhance operational safety.

Understanding these safety measures is critical for maintaining compliance with regulations and ensuring the safe operation of high-pressure steam systems, especially in industrial settings where the consequences of a failure could be severe.