Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Class C Water License Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Prepare for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Class C Water License Exam. Utilize flashcards, multiple choice questions, and in-depth explanations. Equip yourself with the skills to succeed!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


What is a potential consequence of pump cavitation?

  1. Increased efficiency

  2. No change in performance

  3. Pump damage

  4. Improved suction

The correct answer is: Pump damage

Pump cavitation occurs when the pressure in the pump drops below the vapor pressure of the liquid being pumped, leading to the formation of vapor bubbles. When these bubbles travel to areas of higher pressure within the pump, they collapse violently. This phenomenon can generate shock waves that can cause significant damage to the pump's internal components, including wear and erosion of the impeller and casing, loss of efficiency, and ultimately, pump failure. The answer highlighting pump damage is correct because cavitation is known to shorten the lifespan of the pump and lead to costly repairs or replacements. Understanding this consequence is crucial for operators, as it emphasizes the importance of monitoring operating conditions to prevent cavitation and ensure the longevity and reliability of the pumping system.