USCG Exam PracticeBoiler and steam propulsion fundamentals
A vessel's boiler water test shows a sudden significant rise in chloride concentration. According to NAVEDTRA 14104 §4-5, what is the most likely cause and required action?
- A. Excess alkalinity from chemical overdose; reduce chemical treatment immediately
- ✓ Seawater contamination, likely from a condenser tube leak, which must be found and correctedCorrect
- C. Dissolved oxygen ingress through the deaerating feed tank vent; increase scavenger dosage
- D. Hardness salt precipitation from calcium and magnesium; increase bottom blowdown frequency
Why B is correct
NAVEDTRA 14104 §4-5 states that a sudden rise in chlorides warns of seawater contamination — for example a condenser tube leak — which must be found and corrected before it scales and corrodes the boiler. Chloride rise is not caused by alkalinity imbalance, dissolved oxygen, or hardness salts.
Cited:NAVEDTRA 14104 §4-5