Question 234Steam Plants - 1st Asst/Chief

The correct answer is B) Marine growth on the cooling water side of the main condenser. Marine growth on the cooling water side of the main condenser can prevent the vacuum from reaching the desired level. This is because the marine growth reduces the heat transfer efficiency of the condenser, leading to a higher backpressure and a lower vacuum level. The other options are not directly related to the vacuum level in a closed feed and water cycle. A) is incorrect because the steam pressure to the air ejectors is not a factor in determining the vacuum level in the condenser. C) is incorrect because the recirculation of condensate during maneuvering does not affect the vacuum level. D) is incorrect because steam leaking from the turbine glands would not prevent the vacuum from reaching the desired level.