Red Seal Steamfitter/Pipefitter Practice Exam

What does 'pump head' refer to in a pumping system?

1. The volume of water a pump can move

2. The efficiency rating of a pump

3. The height to which a pump can raise water against gravity

4. The power required to operate the pump

The correct answer is: The height to which a pump can raise water against gravity

'Pump head' refers specifically to the height to which a pump can raise water against the force of gravity. This term is critical in understanding how pumps function within a system, as it quantifies the energy imparted to the fluid being moved. The measurement is typically expressed in feet or meters, representing the vertical distance that water can be lifted. When selecting a pump for a particular application, knowing the pump head is essential to ensure that it can deliver water to the required elevation while overcoming any resistance from the piping or system components. It is directly related to the pressure generated by the pump and helps in determining the correct specifications needed for efficient operation and the ability to deliver fluids to specific locations within a system. Thus, a thorough understanding of pump head is vital for anyone involved in setting up or maintaining pumping systems.