How is boiler draft typically measured?

• A. In degrees Fahrenheit
• B. In pounds per square inch
• C. In inches of water
• D. In cubic feet per minute

Answer: (C)

Boiler draft is typically measured in inches of water because this unit provides a means to quantify the pressure difference that drives the combustion gases through the boiler and exhaust systems. This measurement reflects the static pressure exerted by a column of water, which allows engineers to assess how effectively the boiler is drawing air in and exhausting gases out. A draft measurement in inches of water effectively indicates the ability of the boiler to maintain the necessary airflow for proper combustion, which is critical for efficiency and safety in boiler operation.

The other options do not accurately reflect the appropriate method for measuring draft. Degrees Fahrenheit relates to temperature, pounds per square inch pertains to pressure measurements in a general context rather than for draft, and cubic feet per minute is a volumetric flow rate requiring different specifications and conditions. Thus, inches of water remains the standard of choice for measuring boiler draft.