Question 202Steam Plants - 1st Asst/Chief

The correct answer is D) fuel/air ratio knob. To achieve near-perfect combustion in a boiler, the key is to ensure the optimal fuel-to-air ratio. The fuel/air ratio knob is the primary control that allows the operator to manually adjust this ratio, fine-tuning the combustion process. Adjusting the fuel/air ratio knob allows for precise control over the amount of air and fuel being supplied to the boiler, enabling the operator to achieve the most efficient and complete combustion. The other options are incorrect because they do not directly control the fuel-to-air ratio. Adjusting the fuel oil back pressure (option A), the forced draft fan dampers (option B), or the air volume regulators (option C) would not provide the same level of fine-tuning and control over the combustion process as the fuel/air ratio knob.