What is the purpose of having check valves on multiple feedwater pumps?

The purpose of having check valves on multiple feedwater pumps is primarily to ensure that water flows in the intended direction and prevents backflow. When feedwater pumps operate simultaneously, check valves allow the pumps to quickly start up and operate effectively by ensuring that water is directed into the system without interference from other pump feeds that may not be in operation.

In a system with multiple pumps, a check valve permits one pump to discharge water while preventing the water from flowing back into a pump that may be offline or experiencing issues. This arrangement not only contributes to a smoother start-up process but also enhances the overall reliability of the system, preventing potential harm to the pumps and associated piping.

Other options, such as efficiency or reducing the number of valves, don't capture the main functional need for check valves in this context. While efficiency and system simplicity can be considerations in design, the primary reason for implementing check valves in multiple feedwater pump setups is to maintain correct flow direction and ensure seamless operation of the pumps during start-up and shutdown sequences. Thus, the focus on quick start-up illustrates the significant role check valves play in optimizing the functionality of multiple feedwater pumps.