What action should be taken if a tube leak is suspected during boiler operation?

If a tube leak is suspected during boiler operation, shutting down the boiler immediately is the most appropriate action to take. A tube leak can lead to a significant loss of water and pressure within the boiler, which can cause the system to become unstable and potentially lead to catastrophic failure, including explosions or serious equipment damage.

Immediate shutdown helps prevent further damage to the boiler and ensures the safety of the personnel working in the vicinity. Continuing to operate the boiler, even at reduced pressure, could exacerbate the situation by increasing the risk of a more severe failure. Monitoring the leak closely would not address the immediate safety risks associated with a leak, and putting off maintenance notifications could lead to delayed repairs and increased risk. Hence, immediate action to shut down the boiler functions as a critical safety measure.