What should be done if a watertube boiler experiences a tube rupture?

In the event of a tube rupture in a watertube boiler, the most critical response is to shut down the boiler immediately and stop the fuel feed. This action is crucial for several reasons.

Firstly, a tube rupture can lead to a rapid loss of water, which may cause the boiler to overheat and subsequently damage the remaining components. By shutting down the boiler, operators can prevent further heat buildup and potential catastrophic failure.

Secondly, stopping the fuel feed reduces the risk of fire or explosion, which can occur due to the sudden release of pressure and steam in an uncontrolled manner. This precaution is important because a tube rupture may cause water and steam to escape at high pressure, leading to hazardous conditions.

Proper procedures also require operators to follow safety protocols to protect personnel and equipment while initiating a controlled and safe response to the incident. The focus must be on minimizing risks and safely managing the situation.

Options that suggest continuing operation or merely monitoring the situation do not account for the immediate dangers present with a tube rupture, thereby exposing operators and equipment to unnecessary risks.