Oilers/Plant Tenders (HHC) Civil Service Practice Exam

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What is a probable disadvantage of swabbing the piston rods of a small duplex direct-acting pump too often?

  1. Increased pump efficiency

  2. A waste of time and oil

  3. Enhanced lubrication

  4. Improved performance

The correct answer is: A waste of time and oil

Swabbing the piston rods of a small duplex direct-acting pump too frequently can lead to a waste of time and oil, which makes this the most probable disadvantage. Regularly swabbing is intended to maintain the cleanliness and efficiency of the pump by removing contaminants. However, if done excessively, it can not only consume unnecessary amounts of lubricating oil but also take up valuable time that could be better spent on other maintenance tasks. Moreover, over-cleaning might disrupt the oil film necessary for proper lubrication, potentially leading to a less efficient operation rather than enhancing the pump’s performance or efficiency. The act of swabbing should aim to strike a balance; therefore, finding the right frequency is crucial for optimal operation without excessive resource expenditure.