Summary: The following article is a part of National Board
Classic Series.
The following instrument readings, as appropriate to the specific boiler
system, need to be taken daily for low-pressure heating boilers and at least
once per eight-hour shift for high-pressure boilers. These readings must be
recorded in the boiler log.
NOTE: It is very important that the boiler log be kept in a consistent format,
in order for trends to be perceived and followed with preventive action.
Standard forms are available for this purpose; however, the log may be more
useful if the log form is customized for the particular installation.
GENERAL
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Air compressor, control pressure (psig)
-
Outdoor air temperature (degrees F)
-
City water supply pressure (psig)
BOILER
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Boiler(s) in service
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Fuel in use
-
Operating time (hours)
-
Operating cycles(number)
-
Amount of fuel on hand
-
Boiler water level (normal, low, high)
-
Firing level (rate)
-
Flame condition (observed)
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Boiler pressure (psig)
-
Boiler water temperature, hot water (degrees F)
-
Stack temperature, net (degrees F)
GAS FUEL
-
Pilot gas pressure (inches WC)
-
Burner gas pressure (ounces/square inch or psig)
-
Gas used (cubic feet)
OIL FUEL
-
Oil pump in service
-
Vacuum at oil pump (inches Hg)
-
Oil pressure at pump (psig)
-
Oil pressure at burner (psig)
-
Oil pressure at regulating valve (psig)
-
Atomizing medium pressure, air, steam (psig)
CONDENSATE SYSTEM (steam boilers)
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Boiler feed pump in service
-
Condensate return temperature (degrees F)
-
Water level in condensate tank (normal, low, high)
-
Make up water rate (gallons)
FORCED HOT WATER CIRCULATION SYSTEM
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Circulating pumps in service
-
Return water temperature (degrees F)
-
Water level in expansion tank (normal, high, low)
BOILER WATER TREATMENT
-
Level of chemicals in treatment tank
-
Treatment pump in service (low, normal)
-
Boiler water samply taken
MAINTENANCE OR REPAIR OPERATIONS
-
These operations should be recorded in the log
Editor's note: Some ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code
requirements may have changed because of advances in material
technology and/or actual experience. The reader is cautioned to refer
to the latest edition and addenda of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code for current requirements.