AWWA Equipment and Tools Knowledge 2

Question 1

What is the primary function of a pressure reducing valve (PRV) in a water distribution system?

Accepted Answer

Reduce downstream pressure to a preset level

Answer

A PRV automatically reduces higher inlet pressure to a lower, stable outlet pressure to protect downstream pipes and fixtures.

Question 2

Which type of valve is best suited for throttling flow in a water main?

Accepted Answer

Globe valve

Answer

Globe valves are designed for throttling because their disc can be precisely positioned to control flow rate.

Question 3

A turbine flow meter measures water flow by:

Accepted Answer

Counting rotations of a spinning impeller in the flow stream

Answer

Turbine meters use a rotor that spins at a speed proportional to flow velocity, and rotation counts are converted to volume.

Question 4

What is the purpose of an air/vacuum relief valve installed at a high point in a pipeline?

Accepted Answer

Admit air during draining and expel air during filling

Answer

Air/vacuum relief valves open to let air in when the pipe drains (preventing vacuum collapse) and release trapped air when the pipe fills.

Question 5

Which pump type is most commonly used for high-flow, low-head water supply applications?

Accepted Answer

Centrifugal pump

Answer

Centrifugal pumps excel at high-flow, low-to-moderate head conditions and are the dominant pump type in water utilities.

(AWWA) American Water Works Association Practice Test