Rhode Island Master Pipefitter Practice Exam 2025 - Free Pipefitter License Practice Questions and Study Guide

When draining a low point of a boiler, a gate valve is recommended due to its design that allows for full flow and minimal resistance in the system. Gate valves are specifically engineered to create a tight seal and control the flow of fluids when fully opened, making them well-suited for applications where the goal is to drain water completely without obstruction.

In contrast, other types of valves do not provide the same advantages for drainage. For instance, butterfly valves, while effective for throttling, can cause turbulence and might not fully drain all the liquid from a low point. Relief valves are designed primarily for pressure relief and not for draining purposes, so they wouldn’t be suitable in this context. Check valves, on the other hand, are used to prevent backflow and are not intended for draining applications as they allow flow in only one direction.

Thus, choosing a gate valve optimizes draining efficiency and ensures a clear path for water to exit the boiler system.