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Which of the following is most prone to pulsating discharge flow ?

A. Centrifugal pump

B. Reciprocating pump

C. Gear pump

D. Axial flow pump

Answer: Option B

Solution (By Examveda Team)

The correct answer is Option B: Reciprocating pump.
Let's break down why:
Pulsating discharge flow means the flow rate isn't constant; it goes up and down in cycles.
Reciprocating pumps use pistons or diaphragms that move back and forth. This creates a distinct "push" of fluid, followed by a "refill" stroke, leading to a strong pulsation.
Centrifugal pumps use a rotating impeller to add energy to the fluid, resulting in a smoother, more continuous flow.
Gear pumps use rotating gears to displace fluid. While there can be some minor pulsations, they are significantly less pronounced than in reciprocating pumps.
Axial flow pumps, similar to centrifugal pumps, use a rotating impeller to move fluid along an axis, resulting in a relatively smooth flow.
In summary, the intermittent pumping action of a reciprocating pump makes it the most likely to produce a pulsating discharge.

This Question Belongs to Chemical Engineering >> Fluid Mechanics

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Comments (1)

  1. Atanu Chatterjee
    Atanu Chatterjee:
    3 months ago

    The correct answer is:
    B. Reciprocating pump

    🔍 Explanation:
    Reciprocating pumps (e.g., piston or plunger pumps) deliver fluid in discrete pulses as the piston/plunger moves back and forth. Each stroke produces a surge of flow followed by a brief lull, resulting in a highly pulsating discharge.

    Centrifugal pumps and axial-flow pumps impart continuous energy to the fluid via rotating impellers, yielding a relatively smooth, steady flow.

    Gear pumps (positive-displacement) also produce a more uniform flow than reciprocating pumps, as the meshing gears trap and transfer fluid continuously, though with minor ripple.

    ✔ Correct option: B. Reciprocating pump

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