California ICC UST Inspector Practice Exam

In terms of maintenance for ball float valves, which of the following is NOT a suggested checklist item?

1. Ensure that the air hole is not plugged

2. Make sure that the cage is intact

3. Make sure that the ball seats tightly

4. Make sure that the ball-float valve initiates an overfill alarm

The correct answer is: Make sure that the ball-float valve initiates an overfill alarm

In the context of maintaining ball float valves, the item that is not typically included in the maintenance checklist is related to ensuring that the ball-float valve initiates an overfill alarm. While the function of overfill alarms is crucial in the overall operation and safety of storage tanks, checking the alarm functionality is not a direct maintenance activity for the ball float valve itself. The float valve's primary responsibilities are related to controlling the flow of liquid and preventing overfilling through mechanical means. The maintenance checklist for ball float valves focuses on items that directly pertain to the valve's mechanical condition and functionality. Ensuring that the air hole is not plugged helps maintain the valve's proper pressure balance, which is necessary for its effective operation. Similarly, confirming that the cage is intact and that the ball seats tightly addresses the physical integrity and sealing capability of the valve, which are vital for preventing leaks and ensuring that the mechanism performs as intended. In summary, maintenance of ball float valves is concerned primarily with their mechanical integrity and function, rather than the performance of ancillary systems such as overfill alarms.