USCG Exam PracticeAir conditioning, ventilation, and compressed air
What is the recognized fire and explosion hazard associated with shipboard compressed-air systems?
- A. Refrigerant vapor mixing with compressed air in the receiver
- ✓ Oil mist in hot compressed air igniting or explodingCorrect
- C. Water vapor in the starting-air lines causing a steam explosion
- D. Overpressure of the intercooler due to a failed suction valve
Why B is correct
NAVEDTRA 14075 §7-1 and NAVEDTRA 14104 §10-3 both identify oil mist mixed with hot compressed air as a recognized hazard that can ignite or explode, which is why oil carryover is minimized and discharge temperatures are kept within limits.