Equipment Operation & Maintenance Flashcards

What is the purpose of the loop in a drip torch's fuel spout?

Answer: It acts as a flame trap to help prevent flashback into the canister

The loop holds fuel that acts as a barrier, helping prevent flame from traveling back into the fuel canister.

A drip torch's breather (air vent) valve should be in which position during ignition operations?

Answer: Open, to allow steady fuel flow

Opening the breather valve lets air into the canister so fuel flows evenly from the spout.

Which fuel mixture is most commonly recommended for hand-held drip torches?

Answer: Roughly 3 parts diesel to 1 part gasoline

A diesel-dominant mix (commonly 3:1, adjustable from about 2:1 to 4:1) burns long enough to ignite fuels while limiting volatility.

When transporting drip torches in a vehicle, which practice is correct?

Answer: Spout stowed inside the canister, cap and breather closed, secured upright in an approved rack or box

Stowing the spout, sealing the canister, and securing it upright outside the passenger area reduces leak and fire risk.

How should a sling psychrometer's wet-bulb wick be prepared before taking a reading?

Answer: Moisten it with clean or distilled water

Distilled or clean water prevents mineral buildup that would bias the wet-bulb temperature.

In a progressive hose lay, lateral lines are typically attached using which fitting?

Answer: A tee with a shutoff valve placed at regular intervals along the main line

Valved tees placed along the trunk line (often every 100 ft) allow laterals to be added without shutting down the main line.

What is the primary function of a foot valve on a portable pump's suction hose?

Answer: Keep water in the suction line and screen out debris

The foot valve's check and strainer help hold prime and keep debris out of the pump.