What is the maximum allowed psig for a water column made of cast iron?

The maximum allowed pressure for a water column made of cast iron is typically established to ensure safety and structural integrity under operational conditions. In the context of high-pressure boilers, cast iron components can function well at pressures up to 250 pounds per square inch gauge (psig). This threshold takes into consideration the mechanical properties of cast iron, which, while strong, loses some of its structural capacity at higher pressures.

Exceeding this limit can lead to catastrophic failures, such as cracking or rupturing, due to the inherent characteristics and limitations of the material. It’s important in boiler design and operation to adhere to these standards to prevent accidents and ensure reliable performance, which is why 250 psig is recognized as the safe upper limit for cast iron water columns in this context.

Other pressure options may not align with the safe operational limits of cast iron, which is why they are not considered acceptable for this application.