Valve stem question

[Glenn Brooks]

Anybody recognize this style of valve stem? I took it out of the bottom valve on my site glass on the boiler, just now. I don’t understand what the long, thin rectangular Cast Iron bar protruding off the end is for. What does it do?

Thinking maybe it diffuses the water flow somehow to prevent an airlock in the glass, or is it used to break up calcium or rust deposits that might build up in the fitting in the boiler head ?

Thanks,

Glenn

[Rwilliams]

Appears to be a sight glass valve stem that has a built in restriction for some unknown reason. Appears to be an aftermarket manufacture based on the threading job of the stem where it mates with the bonnet threads. Any calcium or rust deposits should be cleaned out on a regular basis instead of using a restriction device to save maintenance and create an unsafe condition.

Having a restriction in the water/steam flow area of any water glass stop valve is never good. Makes me wonder what they were thinking to begin with.

I have seen much in the way of poor steam valve repair, but this ranks way up there as some of the creative worst I have ever seen. Sure would not want the FRA boiler inspector to see that during his visit.

When was the last time the boiler was in service?

[Steve Bratina]

An early way to make sure the water passage to the glass remains unclogged. As you turn the valve fully closed, then fully open when blowing down the glass, it "turbines" the passage to remove the crud that could build up and cause another 1278 incident.

[NP317]

That looks like someone's attempt to have a "self-cleaning" valve, instead of performing the required(!) annual removal and servicing of the water glass valve.
I'm with RWilliams on this issue.
RussN