Exam
**Question 1.** At what pressure (psi) does a fire department permit become required for a
portable air compressor in New York City?
A) 75 psi
B) 90 psi
C) 100 psi
D) 120 psi
Answer: D
Explanation: FDNY regulations state that any compressor operating above 100 psi must have a
permit; the threshold for requiring a permit is set at 120 psi to ensure safety margin.
**Question 2.** The Certificate of Fitness (COF) issued by FDNY is:
A) Transferable to any employee of the same company
B) Valid only for the individual named on it
C) Valid for a period of ten years
D) Required only for stationary compressors
Answer: B
Explanation: The COF is a personal credential; it cannot be transferred and is specific to the
holder.
**Question 3.** How often must a COF be renewed under FDNY rules?
A) Every 12 months
B) Every 2 years
C) Every 3 years
D) Every 5 years
Answer: C
,New York City Fire Department FDNY A35 Ultimate
Exam
Explanation: FDNY mandates a three-year renewal cycle; operating with an expired COF is a
violation.
**Question 4.** Which logbook entry is mandatory for FDNY inspection?
A) Daily mileage of the fire apparatus
B) Date and time of each moisture-drain operation
C) Names of all employees on shift
D) Number of fire calls responded to
Answer: B
Explanation: The logbook must record each drainage of the receiver tank to verify moisture
control.
**Question 5.** If a compressor operates without a valid COF, the operator may face:
A) A verbal warning only
B) A fine of up to $500
C) Immediate shutdown and possible criminal charges
D) No penalty if no accident occurs
Answer: C
Explanation: FDNY can order an immediate cease-operation and pursue legal action for
non-compliance.
**Question 6.** In a reciprocating (piston) compressor, the air is compressed by:
A) Rotating impellers
B) Sliding vanes
C) A moving piston within a cylinder
D) A centrifugal turbine
,New York City Fire Department FDNY A35 Ultimate
Exam
Answer: C
Explanation: Reciprocating compressors use pistons that move back and forth to compress air.
**Question 7.** During compression, the temperature of the air typically:
A) Decreases due to expansion
B) Remains constant
C) Increases sharply, often above 200 °F
D) Drops below ambient temperature
Answer: C
Explanation: Compression raises air temperature significantly; cooling is required to protect
components.
**Question 8.** Which power source is least commonly used for FDNY-approved compressors?
A) Electric motor
B) Internal combustion engine
C) Steam turbine
D) Solar panel array
Answer: D
Explanation: Solar panels are not a standard power source for industrial-grade compressors in
FDNY regulations.
**Question 9.** The ASME stamp on an air receiver indicates:
A) The tank has been painted with fire-resistant coating
B) The tank meets American Society of Mechanical Engineers safety standards
C) The tank is approved for use with gasoline vapors
D) The tank is exempt from pressure-relief testing
, New York City Fire Department FDNY A35 Ultimate
Exam
Answer: B
Explanation: An ASME stamp certifies compliance with design, fabrication, and testing
standards.
**Question 10.** The Maximum Allowable Working Pressure (MAWP) of a receiver must never
be exceeded because:
A) It will void the warranty only
B) It could cause a catastrophic rupture or explosion
C) It reduces the life of the filter only
D) It triggers an automatic shutdown without safety risk
Answer: B
Explanation: Exceeding MAWP compromises structural integrity, leading to possible rupture.
**Question 11.** Pressure relief valves protect the system by:
A) Increasing pressure when the tank is low
B) Automatically venting excess pressure to atmosphere
C) Closing the intake filter during high pressure
D) Switching the motor off at low pressure
Answer: B
Explanation: Relief valves open when pressure exceeds preset limits, preventing
over-pressurization.
**Question 12.** The primary function of the pressure switch in a compressor is to:
A) Regulate oil temperature
B) Start the motor when pressure falls below the low-cut setting and stop it at the high-cut
setting
C) Filter incoming air