What should the range of the pressure gauge be in relation to the MAWP of the boiler?

The appropriate range for the pressure gauge in relation to the Maximum Allowable Working Pressure (MAWP) of the boiler is typically set between 1.5 to 2 times the MAWP. This range ensures that the gauge provides an accurate and safe measurement while maintaining a necessary safety margin.

Having the gauge calibrated within this specified range means that it can effectively monitor pressure levels that are significantly above the normal operating pressures without risk of damage to the gauge itself. Furthermore, it allows for adequate headroom in case of temporary surges in pressure, which could occur during operation or when the system is affected by variations in temperature or load.

Setting the gauge outside this range, whether significantly lower or higher, could result in inaccuracies or functionality issues. A gauge that is rated too close to the MAWP may not provide usable readings during normal operation and could be damaged during pressure spikes. Conversely, a gauge rated excessively high might not provide necessary detail for monitoring performance and could mask potential problems.

In practice, ensuring that the gauge is set to read accurately within this 1.5 to 2 times MAWP range is critical for the safe and effective operation of boiler systems, facilitating both safety and performance monitoring.