Q1: Pressure gauges are never connected directly to the live steam line; rather a loop or syphon is interposed as close as possible to the pressure gauge. This is done to

ANS:C - both 'a' & 'b'.

The correct answer is: avoid the overheating of the tubes & bellows which operate them to minimize error and damage. Connecting a pressure gauge directly to the live steam line can subject the gauge to extremely high temperatures, which can lead to overheating and damage, particularly to delicate components like tubes and bellows. By interposing a loop or syphon close to the pressure gauge, the high-temperature steam is allowed to cool down before reaching the gauge, thus protecting its components from overheating. This helps minimize errors and prolong the lifespan of the pressure gauge. Pressure gauges often contain sensitive components such as tubes and bellows, which are used to measure pressure changes. These components are typically made of materials like metal or elastomers, which can be susceptible to damage from high temperatures. When a pressure gauge is connected directly to a live steam line without any intermediary mechanism, the high-temperature steam can directly contact the gauge's sensitive components. This direct exposure to high temperatures can cause the tubes and bellows to overheat, leading to deformation, weakening, or even failure of these components. To prevent this overheating and subsequent damage, a loop or syphon is interposed between the pressure gauge and the steam line. This loop or syphon allows for the steam to cool down before reaching the pressure gauge. As a result, the temperature of the steam that actually reaches the gauge is significantly lower, reducing the risk of overheating and damage to the sensitive components such as tubes and bellows. By minimizing the exposure of these components to high temperatures, the risk of errors in pressure measurement due to component deformation or damage is reduced. Additionally, the lifespan of the pressure gauge is extended, as the sensitive components are protected from the harmful effects of overheating. Therefore, interposing a loop or syphon serves to minimize errors and damage in pressure gauge operation by avoiding the overheating of the tubes and bellows.