Class 4 (4th Engineer) MEKG 📅 Nov 2025

Exam Question

With reference to main air reservoirs:

(a) Give a line sketch of the manner in which mountings are attached to the shell, (6)

(b) Explain why regular internal inspection is advisable. (4)

Reference Answer

### (a) Main Air Reservoir Mountings Attachment
Mountings such as stop valves, safety valves, and pressure gauges are not directly welded to the thin shell of the air reservoir. Direct attachment would create high, localized stress concentrations at the penetration points, especially under cyclic loading from pressure fluctuations. To prevent this, a reinforcing or compensating pad is used.
**Construction and Attachment Method:**
1. **Compensating Pad/Reinforcing Plate:** A thicker, forged steel pad or boss is welded onto the exterior of the reservoir shell around the opening. This pad serves several critical functions:

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