A steam pressure gauge should have a range of at least how many times the safety valve setting?

The correct answer is that a steam pressure gauge should have a range of at least 1 ½ times the safety valve setting. This standard ensures that the gauge can accurately reflect pressure readings without risking damage or malfunction. By having a gauge range that significantly exceeds the safety valve’s setting, operators can ensure that they have a clear and safe operational window.

If the gauge range were set too low, it could cause the gauge to become inaccurate or even fail at higher pressures, which would prevent operators from effectively monitoring the steam system during critical operations. The practice of setting the gauge range at a minimum of 1 ½ times the safety valve's rating provides a buffer that enhances safety and reliability, ensuring that operators can easily read the pressure without operational risks. This precaution helps maintain system integrity and avoids the potential for overpressure situations.