BOILER AND MANAGEMENT 165 



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 fist. 



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 pit. 



15. .Never open or close valves when the water is too 

 low in the boiler, but immediately bank the fire with ashes 

 or earth. Opening the safety valve at such a time will 

 throw the water from the heated surfaces, resulting in 

 overheating and possibly in explosions. 



16. Use the poker as little as possible in firing. 



17. Keep the grate bars free from "clinkers." 



18. When the steam pressure goes too high, start the 

 pump, open the doors of the furnace and close the ash 

 pit. 



19. A steady and even fire saves fuel. 



GENERAL CARE OF BOILER. 



I. Always close the steam and water valves of the 

 glass gauge when you leave the building for half an 

 hour or more. 



