Basic Wastewater Operator Practice Exam

If water is slowly dripping from the packing gland of a horizontal centrifugal pump, what does this indicate?

1. The packing bolts or nuts on the packing gland are properly adjusted

2. The packing bolts or nuts on the packing gland are not properly adjusted

3. The pump needs more coolant

4. The pump is not operating efficiently

The correct answer is: The packing bolts or nuts on the packing gland are properly adjusted

When water is slowly dripping from the packing gland of a horizontal centrifugal pump, it suggests that the packing is functioning as intended. A properly adjusted packing gland is designed to allow a small amount of leakage, which helps to lubricate the packing material and prevent overheating. This is a normal operating condition for a centrifugal pump and indicates that the packing may be effectively reducing the leakage to a minimal and manageable level. In centrifugal pumps, some leakage is acceptable and necessary to ensure the longevity and efficiency of the packing material. If the packing gland is too tight, it can lead to excessive wear and overheating of the packing, which would not be optimal for the operation of the pump. Hence, the presence of a slow drip is acceptable and generally indicates that the system is balanced correctly, where the packing is not overly compressed. This detail is critical for maintaining the proper function and efficiency of the pump over time.