Question 266General Subjects - Assistant Engineer70% to pass
Suppose the illustrated pneumatically operated diaphragm actuated control valve is used to control the fuel oil outlet temperature of a steam-heated heavy fuel oil heater by controlling the steam flow. What would be the result if there was a complete loss of pilot air being delivered to the valve actuator? Illustration GS-0051

AI Explanation
The correct answer is C) The valve would fail in the fully open position, most likely resulting in a high fuel oil temperature alarm condition.
This is correct because pneumatically operated diaphragm actuated control valves are designed to fail in the open position upon loss of pilot air. Without the air pressure pushing the diaphragm and closing the valve, the spring inside the actuator will move the valve to the fully open position. This would allow unrestricted steam flow to the fuel oil heater, resulting in the fuel oil temperature rising significantly and triggering a high temperature alarm.
The other options are incorrect because A) the valve would not fail closed, B) the valve would not maintain its last position, and D) it is possible to predict the valve's response based on the design of pneumatic actuators.
Related Questions
#264 In the illustrated pneumatically operated, diaphragm actuated control valve, what statement is true concerning the opening and closing forces acting upon the control diaphragm? Illustration GS-0051 #265 Referring to the illustrated pneumatically operated diaphragm actuated control valve, what statement is true? Illustration GS-0051 #267 Suppose the pilot pressure is from 3 to 15 psig for the illustrated pneumatically operated, diaphragm actuated control valve. Assuming the control valve is trimmed for a linear response and the travel position indicator is calibrated in percentage, what would be the approximate pilot pressure if the position indicator showed the valve to be 75% open? Illustration GS-0051 #268 What statement representing the primary purpose of a steam trap is true? #269 What type of steam trap is most susceptible to damage if allowed to come into contact with superheated steam?