STEAM- JACKETED KETTLES
Kettles require, as a minimum, monthly inspections.
Figure 7-4 illustrates an arrangement of shipboard
steam-jacketed kettles. An annual preventive
maintenance inspection is also important. Here are a
few factors to keep in mind while inspecting
steam-jacketed kettles.
When making a MONTHLY inspection, check the
draw-off faucets, valves, and piping for leaks. Check
the steam pressure-reducing valve to ensure it is in good
condition and is functioning properly. Lubricate the
hinges of the kettle cover with mineral oil.
During the ANNUAL inspection, check each kettle
for leaks, cracks, and dents. Examine the cover, hinges,
and latch for warp and alignment. Check the steam
piping and the condensate piping, the valves, and the
traps for leaks and obstructions. Remove the safety
valves; then clean, lubricate, and calibrate them before
reinstalling. Remove any rust and corrosion by using
Navy approved solvents. Other than visual inspections,
each individual piece of galley equipment requires its
own type of preventive maintenance.
During each ships regularly scheduled overhaul,
steam-jacketed kettles should be tested using the
following procedure:
1. Put each kettle into a cold-water pressure test of
90 psi for not less than 30 minutes.
2. Check the safety valves on each kettle. The
testing of safety valves should he covered by the PMS.
In general, kettle safety valves are set to release at a
pressure of 45 psig.
3. Replace kettles that are cracked, badly pitted, or
bulge under a pressure test.
4. Replace all malfunctioning safety valves.
Table 7-3 shows some common troubles and repair
recommendations on steam-jacketed kettles and other
steam-heated equipment.
Table 7-3.Common Troubles and Repair Recommendations on Steam-Jacketed Kettles and Other Steam-heated Equipment
Inspection Point
Steam jacket
Steam jacket
Steam jacket
Pipe joints
Pipe joints
Control valves
Control valves
Condensate strainer
Steam trap
Lagging
Reducing valve
Safety valve
Covers
Drawoff valve
Symptoms
Not beating
Stays hot
Leaks
Leaks
Corrosion
Stuck open or closed
Leaks at stem
No flow
Malfunctioning
Broken or crushed
Incorrect pressure
Stuck open or lifting
under pressure
Tight operation
Leaks
Time
When noted
When noted
Monthly
Monthly
Monthly
When noted
Weekly
When noted
Every 6 months
Quarterly
When noted
When noted
When noted
When noted
Possible Troubles/Causes
No steam; valve stuck
closed; trap malfunctioning
Valve partly open or scored
seat
Rapid changes in temperature
causing cracks; faulty weld
Joints made incorrectly; not
tight
Leaks or condensation
No steam or too much steam;
packing too tight or valve
frozen
Packing not tight enough
Restricted strainer
Parts dirty or worn
Water soaked; stepped on
Parts dirty or worn
Leaks or corrosion
Hinges dirty
Scored
Possible Corrections
Check steam supply; free
stuck valve
Repair or replace valve
Raise heat slower, reweld
bust or crack
Unscrew, clean and repair
joint
Repair and/or clean
Loosen packing gland or free
frozen valve stem
Tighten packing
Clean strainer
Disassemble, clean, and repair
Replace defective sections
Disassemble, clean, and
repair; clean and adjust
pressure every 6 months
Replace or repair valve
Clean and lubricate binges
Resurface or replace.
DO NOT REPLACE WITH
REGULAR GATE VALVE
7-7
