CWolcott wrote:
>
>
> In the case of the mudring, my guess is with a small boiler the
> remaining water flashes into steam with the release of pressure, causing
> the mud ring joint to melt from the residual heat and allowing this
> pressure to be vented as well.
>
Well, in the case of the boiler running out of water, you want two
things to happen. An excessively hot boiler is comprimised structurally
by the heat, so the first priority relieving the pressure of the steam
inside the vessel to prevent explosion. Once that's done, it can be
helpful to douse the fire to prevent further damage to the boiler
itself. Thirdly, it can be desirable as a way to get the operator's
attention.
