OIT Pumping Systems and Hydraulics Flashcards
6 cards from real OIT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 OIT Pumping Systems and Hydraulics flashcards as text
What is water hammer and what causes it?
Answer: Pressure surge caused by rapid change in fluid velocity, such as sudden valve closure
Water hammer is a pressure surge or wave caused by a sudden change in fluid velocity, commonly triggered by rapid valve closure or pump shutdown.
What is the function of a pressure relief valve in a pumping system?
Answer: To automatically release excess pressure and protect system components from overpressure
A pressure relief valve automatically opens to discharge fluid when system pressure exceeds a set limit, protecting pipes and equipment from damage.
What does pump efficiency measure?
Answer: The ratio of hydraulic power output to shaft power input
Pump efficiency is the ratio of the hydraulic power imparted to the fluid to the mechanical shaft power supplied to the pump.
If a pump is operating to the right of its best efficiency point (BEP) on its curve, what is likely happening?
Answer: The pump is moving more flow than its design point, potentially causing cavitation and overheating
Operating to the right of BEP means the pump is moving excess flow, which can lead to cavitation, motor overloading, and reduced pump life.
What is the purpose of a variable frequency drive (VFD) on a pump motor?
Answer: To adjust pump speed to match varying system demand and save energy
A VFD varies the motor speed (and thus pump output) to match system demand, saving significant energy compared to running pumps at full speed constantly.
What is the affinity law relationship between pump speed and flow rate?
Answer: Flow rate varies directly (linearly) with speed
According to the affinity laws, flow rate varies directly (proportionally) with pump speed — doubling speed doubles flow rate.