Water Distribution Grade 1 Certification Practice Exam

Which pump is most frequently used as a booster pump in a water distribution system?

1. Horizontal centrifugal pump

2. Vertical turbine pump

3. Submersible pump

4. Diaphragm pump

The correct answer is: Vertical turbine pump

In a water distribution system, the most frequently used pump as a booster pump is the vertical turbine pump. This type of pump is specifically designed for applications where high flow rates and pressures are required, making it ideal for boosting water pressure in municipal systems. Vertical turbine pumps can efficiently handle large volumes of water while providing the necessary pressure to transport water to elevated locations or areas requiring additional pressure. Due to their vertical orientation, these pumps are also suitable for installation in deep wells and can be submerged or positioned above the water source, which contributes to their versatility and effectiveness in various boosting scenarios. While other types of pumps have their specific applications, they are not as commonly utilized for boosting in water distribution systems. For instance, horizontal centrifugal pumps are also widely used but typically serve different functions related to transfer and circulation rather than as boosters. Submersible pumps are often used in wells for groundwater extraction rather than for increasing pressure in distribution systems. Diaphragm pumps are more appropriate for applications requiring precise flow control and are less suitable for high-volume water delivery. Thus, vertical turbine pumps are the preferred choice when it comes to boosting pressure in water distribution networks due to their combination of efficiency, capacity, and adaptability to system requirements.