Arkansas Boiler Operator Practice Exam

What does the term "boiler horsepower" refer to?

1. The total weight of the boiler

2. A measure of a boiler's capacity to produce steam

3. The amount of fuel consumed by a boiler

4. The volume of water the boiler can hold

The correct answer is: A measure of a boiler's capacity to produce steam

The term "boiler horsepower" specifically refers to a measure of a boiler's capacity to produce steam. It quantifies the amount of steam a boiler can generate within a specific time frame, which is typically expressed in pounds of steam per hour. This measurement is important for understanding how efficiently a boiler can operate and meet the steam demands of a system. Boiler horsepower is defined such that one boiler horsepower is equivalent to the ability to produce 34.5 pounds of steam per hour at a pressure of 0 psig (pounds per square inch gauge) and a temperature of 212°F (100°C). This standardization allows for comparative assessments of different boiler systems based on their capacity and performance. In the context of the other choices, while the total weight of the boiler, fuel consumption, and volume of water are relevant aspects of boiler operation, they do not define the boiler's ability to produce steam. Each of these factors might influence the efficiency or operation of a boiler, but they do not provide a direct measure of capacity in the same way that boiler horsepower does.