Question 46 QMED01 - Junior Engineer

The Correct Answer is C ### Why Option C ("Steel tools") is correct: Steel tools should **NEVER** be used when cleaning boiler fuel oil atomizer parts (such as the nozzle or sprayer plate). Atomizers rely on extremely precise tolerances and highly polished surfaces to effectively atomize the fuel (break it into a fine mist) under high pressure. Steel is harder than the specialized metals often used in these components. Using a steel tool can easily scratch, score, deform, or damage the delicate spray holes and seating surfaces, which would destroy the atomizer's efficiency, resulting in poor combustion, carbon buildup, and potential damage to the boiler or furnace. ### Why the other options are incorrect: * **A) Wood tools:** While not ideal for heavy deposits, wooden tools (like soft dowels or toothpicks) are often acceptable or even recommended for lightly clearing soft residues from small holes or checking ports because they are soft and will not damage the metal surfaces. * **B) Brass tools:** Brass is significantly softer than steel, copper, and the hardened metal alloys used in atomizer parts. Brass cleaning tools (like special brushes or scribers) are frequently used because they are abrasive enough to remove carbon deposits but soft enough that they will not scratch or damage the precise, finished surfaces of the atomizer components. * **D) Copper tools:** Similar to brass, copper is a relatively soft, non-ferrous metal. Copper wire brushes or scrapers may be used in certain situations where they are needed to clear tougher deposits, as they pose a minimal risk of damaging the critical tolerances of the atomizer parts compared to steel.