What occurs first when the suction valve of a running centrifugal pump is closed?

Study for the Sewage Treatment Worker Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

When the suction valve of a running centrifugal pump is closed, the first occurrence is that the pump loses its prime. This is because a centrifugal pump relies on a continuous flow of liquid to maintain the necessary pressure for operation. When the suction valve is closed, the flow of liquid is interrupted, and air can enter the pump casing. Without the liquid to create pressure and provide lubrication, the pump can no longer create the pressure differential required for it to function properly.

Losing prime is critical because it can lead to various operational issues, including potential overheating, as the pump is no longer circulating fluid to dissipate heat. It could also lead to increased vibration due to an unstable hydraulic situation, but these consequences occur after the initial loss of prime. Hence, the correct understanding of the sequence of events shows that loss of prime is the immediate effect following the closure of the suction valve.

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