USCG Exam PracticeLube oil and fuel oil systems
A vessel with oil-fired boilers is undergoing inspection. Regulations require at least two fuel oil service pumps for main boilers. Which of the following statements correctly describes an additional regulatory requirement for these pumps?
- A. Each pump must be independently motor-driven and fitted with a dedicated suction strainer that can only be cleaned when the pump is secured
- ✓ Each pump must have sufficient capacity to supply all boilers at full power, and the arrangement must allow one pump to be overhauled while the other remains in serviceCorrect
- C. Each pump must discharge through Schedule 40 seamless steel piping fitted with union joints at each flange
- D. Each pump must be fitted with a relief valve that discharges to the service tank rather than the settling tank
Why B is correct
46 CFR §56.50-65(b)(1) requires that vessels with oil-fired boilers have at least two fuel service pumps, each of sufficient capacity to supply all boilers at full power, arranged so that one may be overhauled while the other is in service. Relief valves must discharge to the settling tank or suction side of the pump per §56.50-65(c), not the service tank.
Cited:46 CFR §56.50-65