Positive Displacement Pump: Importance of Pressure Relief Device

Where must a pressure relief device be located when using a positive displacement pump?

A) suction side of the pump

B) discharge side of the pump after the discharge stop valve

C) discharge side of the pump before discharge stop valve

D) anywhere

Final answer:

Answer:

A pressure relief device should be installed on the discharge side of a positive displacement pump before the discharge stop valve to prevent damage from excess pressure.

When using a positive displacement pump, a pressure relief device must be located on the discharge side of the pump before the discharge stop valve. This is to ensure that any excess pressure from the pump can be relieved to prevent damage to the pump or to the system it is connected to. Installing the relief device before the stop valve guarantees that it is always in the flow path regardless of whether the valve is open or closed, ensuring that the system is protected from overpressure at all times.

Positive displacement pumps work by displacing a specific amount of liquid with each cycle of operation. Unlike centrifugal pumps which rely on kinetic energy to move fluids, positive displacement pumps use mechanical means to move fixed amounts of fluid. This makes them suitable for applications where precise and consistent flow rates are required.

However, due to the nature of positive displacement pumps, they can be susceptible to damage from excess pressure build-up. This is where the importance of a pressure relief device comes into play. By installing a relief device on the discharge side of the pump before the stop valve, any pressure exceeding the set limit can be safely released, protecting the pump and the system from potential damage.

In conclusion, when using a positive displacement pump, it is crucial to ensure that a pressure relief device is properly installed on the discharge side of the pump before the discharge stop valve. This simple measure can go a long way in safeguarding the pump and the overall system from the risks associated with overpressure.