USCG Exam PracticeBoiler and steam propulsion fundamentals
According to 46 CFR §56.50-30, feed pumps for water-tube boilers must have which type of supply connections?
- A. Saltwater connections, provided the water is filtered to remove solids
- ✓ Freshwater connections onlyCorrect
- C. Either freshwater or treated seawater connections, at the operator's discretion
- D. Connections to the ship's fire main as a backup supply
Why B is correct
46 CFR §56.50-30(a)(4) states unambiguously that feed pumps for water-tube boilers must have freshwater connections only. Introducing seawater into a water-tube boiler would cause rapid scaling and corrosion of the tubes and drum, consistent with the water treatment principles described in NAVEDTRA 14104 §4-5.