What test is used to assess a boiler's safety valve capacity?

The accumulation test is specifically designed to assess a boiler's safety valve capacity by evaluating its ability to handle overpressure situations. This test involves setting the boiler to a specific pressure and measuring how much steam or fluid pressure increases when the safety valve is tested.

During this test, the safety valve is required to open at a predetermined setting, allowing excess pressure to escape. The objective is to determine how well the safety valve can regulate the pressure within the system to ensure safety. By observing the pressure increase and the valve's response, engineers can verify that the valve opens at the right pressure and closes tightly afterward, ensuring that the boiler operates safely under various conditions.

This test is critical because it helps prevent dangerous pressure accumulation that could lead to catastrophic failures. A properly functioning safety valve is essential for maintaining the integrity of the boiler system.