Air vessel in a reciprocating pump is used
- ATo obtain a continuous supply of water at uniform rate
- BTo save a considerable amount of work in overcoming the frictional resistance in the suction & delivery pipe
- CTo run the pump at a high speed without separation
- DAll of the aboveCorrect
Solution
Concept
Functions of air vessel in reciprocating pumps
Formula
NONE
Step-by-step solution
1. An air vessel is a closed chamber fitted near the suction or delivery pipe of a reciprocating pump. 2. It maintains a continuous supply of fluid at a uniform rate, saves work in overcoming pipe friction, and allows higher operating speeds without flow separation. 3. Since all the stated options represent established functions of an air vessel, all choices are correct. Answer: D
Explanation
An air vessel acts as a small reservoir that stores excess fluid during the delivery stroke and releases it during the suction stroke to maintain a continuous flow rate. This steadying effect reduces frictional head losses in the connected piping, enabling substantial power savings. Consequently, it also prevents fluid separation and allows the pump to operate at higher speeds.
Why the other options are wrong
A) Obtaining a continuous supply of water at a uniform rate is only one of several functions of an air vessel. B) Saving work in overcoming frictional resistance in suction and delivery pipes is only one function of an air vessel. C) Running the pump at high speed without separation is only one function of an air vessel.
Shortcut
Air vessels in reciprocating pumps perform all three: smooth flow, save friction work, and prevent separation.
Common mistake
Selecting a single function instead of recognizing that all listed options are functions of an air vessel.
Correct answer: D) All of the above