Which of the below listed pumps could be operated with the discharge valve closed for a short period of time?

In the operation of pumps, certain designs are more tolerant of conditions such as a closed discharge valve. A centrifugal pump can function for a short period with the discharge valve closed due to its design, which allows it to build up a certain amount of pressure without causing immediate damage.

Centrifugal pumps work by converting rotational kinetic energy, typically provided by an impeller, into hydrodynamic energy. When the discharge valve is closed, fluid cannot exit, and the pump may experience an increase in pressure within the casing. While prolonged operation under these conditions can lead to overheating or damaging the pump due to factors like fluid recirculation, centrifugal pumps are designed to handle momentary scenarios without catastrophic failure.

In contrast, positive displacement pumps are designed to move a fixed volume of fluid per cycle and do not tolerate a closed discharge valve well, as the increased pressure can lead to mechanical failure or damage to the pump components. Similarly, diaphragm pumps and submersible pumps are also less tolerant of closed discharge conditions for extended periods, as it can lead to damage or performance issues.

Thus, the ability of a centrifugal pump to operate with a closed discharge valve for a short duration, without immediately risking failure, supports why it is identified as the correct answer in this