Equipment Maintenance & Operations Flashcards

When inspecting a pump mechanical seal for leaks, what is the acceptable leak rate for a standard single mechanical seal?

Answer: Up to 3 drops per minute

A standard single mechanical seal should leak no more than 3 drops per minute; anything beyond that indicates seal wear or failure.

What is the primary purpose of a pressure relief valve (PRV) on a storage tank or vessel?

Answer: To prevent overpressure by venting excess pressure

A PRV automatically vents excess pressure to protect the vessel from rupture when pressure exceeds the set point.

A centrifugal pump is experiencing cavitation. Which symptom is MOST characteristic of this condition?

Answer: Rattling or crackling noise from the pump

Cavitation causes vapor bubbles to form and collapse violently, producing a distinctive rattling or crackling sound like gravel in the pump.

Before performing maintenance on a heat exchanger that contains flammable hydrocarbons, which step must be completed FIRST?

Answer: Purge and blind the equipment

Purging removes hydrocarbons and blinds (spectacle blinds) isolate the exchanger from the process to prevent exposure to flammable materials.

What does the term 'MAWP' stand for in the context of pressure vessel maintenance?

Answer: Maximum Allowable Working Pressure

MAWP stands for Maximum Allowable Working Pressure, which is the highest pressure a vessel is designed to handle safely.

Which type of valve is BEST suited for throttling (flow control) applications in petroleum operations?

Answer: Globe valve

Globe valves are designed for throttling because their plug-and-seat design provides fine control over flow rate.

When using a torque wrench to tighten flange bolts on a process piping joint, what is the correct tightening sequence?

Answer: Tighten all bolts hand-tight, then use a cross-pattern sequence

Hand-tightening first, followed by a cross (star) pattern, ensures even gasket compression and prevents flange distortion.