What specific gravity of gas is indicated for the gas supply to the boiler?

The correct answer, which indicates a specific gravity of 1.50 for the gas supply to the boiler, aligns with typical values for natural gas. Natural gas primarily consists of methane, which has a specific gravity of about 0.6 to 0.7 relative to air (which has a specific gravity of 1.0). When calculating specific gravity for various gas supplies, it is critical to recognize that specific gravity values higher than 1.0 suggest that the gas is denser than air.

In many industrial and commercial applications, including boiler operations, a specific gravity value of approximately 1.50 is indicative of a richer gas mixture or possibly a mix of gases. Understanding the specific gravity is essential for engineers and operators to ensure proper combustion, safety, and efficiency. A value significantly different from 1.50 could imply an operational issue or the use of a different fuel type, which may not be suitable for the equipment in question.

The other specific gravity values provided in the choices do not align with typical natural gas characteristics, which would lead to potential miscalculations in operational contexts. It’s crucial to confirm that the gas supply matches the boiler's design specifications to promote optimal performance and efficiency.