Kentucky Boiler Practice Exam

The pressure relief valve is a critical component in a boiler system that provides protection against overheating. It is designed to open automatically when the pressure within the boiler exceeds a predetermined limit, which helps prevent potential damage from excessive pressure and temperature. When the system experiences overheating, the pressure can rise quickly, leading to hazardous conditions. The pressure relief valve alleviates this risk by releasing excess steam or water, thereby maintaining safe operating conditions.

The other components, while important in their respective roles, do not specifically address the issue of overheating. Blowers typically serve to circulate air or combustion gases within the boiler system. The feed water pump is responsible for supplying water to the boiler for steam generation, whereas the heat exchanger is used to transfer heat from one medium to another but does not monitor or control pressure or temperature directly. Thus, the pressure relief valve emerges as the essential component focused on safeguarding against overheating scenarios in boiler operations.