Article 18 Boiler feed systems

In every vessel of 12 metres in length and over to which these Rules apply every boiler which provides services essential for the safety of the vessel or which could become dangerous by the failure of its feed water supply, shall be provided with not less than two efficient and separate feed water systems so arranged that either of the systems may be opened for inspection or overhaul independently of the other. Means shall be provided which will prevent overpressure in any part of the systems.

In every such vessel where it is possible for oil to enter the feed water system of a boiler, arrangements shall be provided for interception of the oil in the feed water.

In every such vessel check valves, fittings and pipes in feed water systems shall be designed and constructed to withstand, with an adequate factor of safety, the maximum working stresses to which they may be subjected. Valves, fittings or pipes shall, prior to installation, be subjected to hydraulic test suitably in excess of the maximum working pressure of the boiler to which they are connected or of the maximum working pressure to which the feed line may be subjected, whichever shall be the greater.

In every such vessel boiler feed systems shall be maintained in an efficient condition and the feed pipes shall be adequately supported.

In every such vessel provision shall be made to ensure that an adequate reserve of feed water is available.