Steamfitter Key Skills and Knowledge Areas 2

Question 1

What type of weld joint is most commonly used when joining two pipes end-to-end in a high-pressure steam system?

Accepted Answer

Butt weld

Answer

Butt welds are preferred for high-pressure piping because they provide full penetration and maximum joint strength.

Question 2

Which tool is used to verify that a pipe flange face is perfectly flat before assembly?

Accepted Answer

Straight edge and feeler gauge

Answer

A straight edge and feeler gauge are used together to detect any high or low spots on a flange face.

Question 3

When installing expansion loops in a steam piping system, what is the primary purpose?

Accepted Answer

To allow for thermal expansion and contraction

Answer

Expansion loops absorb the dimensional changes in pipe length caused by heating and cooling cycles.

Question 4

A steamfitter discovers a threaded fitting is leaking at a joint. What is the correct first step before re-making the joint?

Accepted Answer

De-pressurize and drain the system

Answer

Safety requires the system to be de-pressurized and drained before any threaded joint is disassembled or repaired.

Question 5

Which piping material is NOT acceptable for use in high-pressure steam service above 250 psi?

Accepted Answer

Cast iron

Answer

Cast iron is brittle and cannot safely handle the thermal cycling and pressure demands of high-pressure steam service.

(Steamfitter) Steamfitter Pipefitter Exam Practice Test