CREAMERY BUTTER MAKING 173 



GENERAL POINTERS ON FIRING. 



1. Boilers newly set should not be fired within two or 

 three weeks after setting and then the firing should be 

 very gradual for several days to allow the masonry to 

 harden without cracking. 



2. Never fire a boiler before determining the water 

 level by trying the water gauge cocks. You can not 

 entirely rely upon glass gauges, floats, and water alarms. 



3. When starting the fire, open the upper water gauge 

 cock and do not close it until steam begins to issue from 

 it. This permits the escape of confined air. 



4. Kindle the fire on a thin layer of coal to protect 

 the grate bars. 



5. Always examine the safety valve before starting a 

 fire. 



6. When starting the fire all drafts should be open. 



7. The firing should be gradual until all parts of the 

 boiler have been heated. 



8. Never allow any part of the grate bars to become 

 uncovered during firing. 



9. Frequently clean the ash pit to prevent overheating 

 of grates from the hot cinders underneath. 



10. The coals upon the grates should not be larger 

 than a man's first. 



11. Remember that firing up a boiler rapidly is apt to 

 cause leaks. 



12. Remember that too little water in the boiler causes 

 leaks and explosions. 



13. Remember that soot and ashes on heating surfaces 

 always waste fuel. 



14. When fire is drawn close dampers, and doors of 

 furnace and ash oit. 



