USCG Exam PracticeHydraulics and pneumatics
Under 46 CFR §28.880, a hydraulically operated machine is considered 'fail-safe' when:
- A. It is equipped with a mechanical locking pin that engages automatically on loss of pressure
- ✓ A component failure results in a slow and controlled release of the load so as not to endanger personnelCorrect
- C. The system relief valve is set to relieve at the maximum operating pressure
- D. The hydraulic pump automatically shuts down upon detection of a pressure drop
Why B is correct
46 CFR §28.880(g) defines a fail-safe system as one in which a component failure results in a slow and controlled release of the load so as not to endanger personnel. A mechanical holding device is an alternative compliance method, not the definition of fail-safe. Relief valve setting and pump shutdown are separate requirements.
Cited:46 CFR §28.880