Why are safety valves critical in a boiler system?

Safety valves play a vital role in boiler systems by providing pressure relief, which is essential to prevent potential explosions. In a boiler, steam is generated under high pressure, and if this pressure exceeds safe operating limits, it can lead to catastrophic failures. Safety valves are designed to automatically open and release excess steam if the pressure rises beyond a specified level, thereby protecting the integrity of the boiler and ensuring safe operation.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary function of safety valves. For example, while regulating temperature and measuring steam density are important in a boiler system, these tasks fall under the functions of other components, not the safety valve. Additionally, safety valves do not contribute to increasing fuel consumption; their purpose is strictly related to maintaining safe operating conditions within the boiler.