Boiler Question

[MHall]

As a High School student hoping to get into the field,I have been doing some additional research on boilers.

One question I have is this; "Under what conditions must a boiler be under a 24 hour watch?"

Both schools I have attended use boilers for hot water heat, and only have staff present during the day.

Thank you for your time and assitance in answering my question.

[timmy2734]

It depends...

Around here, if a low pressure boiler is fully automated, it does not require an operator. Hi pressure boilers require an operator during operation.
If a facility is a 24/7 operation they'll have somebody there. Something like a school may not as they would shut down daily and nut run around the clock.

[GT Jets]

For the most "all encompassing" answer, refer to the rules set by each state.

https://www.google.com/search?q=Stea...ient=firefox-a

Asking questions is a great way to expand your knowledge.. If I may be so bold, aim higher than you think you can achieve.

A person that sets a low goal will achieve their goals easier but will find them less rewarding....

GT

[MHall]

It depends...

Around here, if a low pressure boiler is fully automated, it does not require an operator. Hi pressure boilers require an operator during operation.
If a facility is a 24/7 operation they'll have somebody there. Something like a school may not as they would shut down daily and nut run around the clock.

Thanks for the reply.

So all high pressure boilers require an operator, even if they are fully automated?? If so, why??

[GT Jets]

Thanks for the reply.

So all high pressure boilers require an operator, even if they are fully automated?? If so, why??

[MHall]

Is an operator required for both Steam boilers and hot water boilers??? I always thought that operators were required with steam only...?

Thanks.

[GT Jets]

Is an operator required for both Steam boilers and hot water boilers??? I always thought that operators were required with steam only...?

Thanks.

Most cases above 15 PSI Steam.

The reason for the non specifics is because different locations have different rules.

As an example, a hydronic heating water boiler here in California requires two low water cut outs.

GT

[timmy2734]

the word "operator" gets tossed around too easily. There's some guys that are nothing more than switch flippers unfortunately... or sometimes maybe management has them doing other things that they feel are more important.

then stuff like this happens
http://www.ipemaritimes.com/bxpl.pdf

NYC Department of Buildings requires a licensed engineer for hi pressure boilers.

NYC Fire Department handles the low pressure boiler operation. There's also a DEP Air pollution certificate for residual fuel oil.

[MHall]

See above.

[MHall]

Thanks for the replies.

Another question I have; " Are high pressure boilers used only in older properties"?? It seems that this method of heating hasn't been used in new construction for 30+ years. Are there any newer buildings that utilize this type of heating??

Currently, all new construction appears to be electric heat strips. I would appreciate your insight. Thanks

[timmy2734]

nope.

You'll see it still in New construction.

Hospitals, Colleges, large apartment complexes, utility companies, factories.

It's still around

[MHall]

nope.

You'll see it still in New construction.

Hospitals, Colleges, large apartment complexes, utility companies, factories.

It's still around

How new?? I've never visited any building heated by steam or hot water, that wasn't 50+ years old.

However, I have read case studies of buildings built in the 1970s that used boiler heat. It is my quess that boiler heat fell out of use in the early 1980s, from then on it was all electric heating elements in new construction. Am I right?

This is simply my theory, from the limited obsevation I have as a high school student. Any additional input is appreciated!

[Gib's Son]

Much has to do with what part of the country you are in, gas, electric, oil, propane. I see steam boilers going in brand new buildings....mostly hospitals. Steam is very efficient, no pumps..per se.

I think steam is a lost art because so many people are scared of it and do not understand how a simple steam trap works. Therefore they do not get maintained resulting in comfort issues.