Question 167Steam Plants - 1st Asst/Chief

The correct answer is A) secure the feed water supply to the boiler. When a boiler tube ruptures and the water level in the gage glass cannot be maintained, the primary concern is to prevent further loss of water and potential damage to the boiler. Securing the feed water supply to the boiler will stop any additional water from being introduced, which could lead to a rapid drop in water level and potentially cause the boiler to overheat. This is the critical first step to take in this situation. The other options, while important in their own right, are not the immediate priority. Closing the main steam stop, securing the forced draft fans, and stopping the fuel oil service pump are all necessary actions, but they should be taken after securing the feed water supply to stabilize the boiler.