Arkansas Boiler Operator Practice Exam

What is the role of boiler feedwater?

1. To cool the boiler system

2. To generate steam

3. To clean the boiler interior

4. To dilute impurities in the steam

The correct answer is: To generate steam

The role of boiler feedwater is primarily to generate steam. In a boiler system, water is heated to produce steam, which is then used for various applications such as heating, power generation, or other industrial processes. The feedwater, which can come from various sources, needs to be treated to remove impurities and chemicals that could cause corrosion or scale buildup in the boiler. By generating steam, the boiler can perform its intended functions, such as converting energy into usable forms. The other options do relate to aspects of boiler operation but do not accurately describe the primary purpose of feedwater. While cooling might occur as part of certain operational processes, it is not the main function of feedwater. Cleaning the boiler interior is important for maintenance but does not define the role of feedwater. Diluting impurities in the steam might be a consideration in steam quality but does not reflect the principal function of boiler feedwater, which remains the generation of steam essential for the system's operation.