BOMA Plant Operations Practice Test

High vibrations in a feed water pump can be attributed to various factors, and hot feed water is a significant one. When water is heated, it expands and changes its physical properties, which can affect the pump's performance. If the feed water is excessively hot, it can cause cavitation or changes in the flow characteristics within the pump. These issues, in turn, lead to imbalances and increased vibrations.

In addition, hot feed water may not provide the necessary lubrication for the pump’s internals compared to cooler temperatures, which can exacerbate wear and increase vibration levels. Understanding the relationship between temperature and pump operation is critical for maintaining optimal performance and preventing issues like excess vibration.

While high pressure in the DA tank can create operational challenges as well, it is not directly linked to causing vibrations in the same way that a thermal condition could. Similarly, cold feed water is less likely to cause vibrations compared to hot feed water, as it typically enhances stability in the pump system. The notion that pumps always vibrate is an oversimplification and fails to recognize the importance of operating conditions on pump performance.