What is the main purpose of a safety valve on a boiler?

The main purpose of a safety valve on a boiler is to relieve excess pressure. This is a critical safety feature designed to prevent potentially dangerous situations caused by over-pressurization. In a boiler, steam is generated, and as pressure builds, it is essential that there is a mechanism to safely release this pressure if it rises above a predetermined level. By doing so, the safety valve helps to protect the integrity of the boiler and reduces the risk of catastrophic failures, such as explosions.

In contrast, controlling water temperature, monitoring fuel levels, and measuring steam output serve different operational purposes within the boiler system but do not directly address the need for pressure relief, which is vital for safe boiler operation. Understanding the function of a safety valve is crucial for anyone working with high-pressure boilers to ensure they can identify and respond to potentially hazardous conditions effectively.