Question

The primary function of a surge tank in an irrigation pipeline system is to:

• A. Store excess irrigation water
• B. Remove air from the pipeline
• C. Absorb pressure fluctuations
• D. Increase water velocity

Hint:

Surge tanks safeguard irrigation pipelines by mitigating pressure surges.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

A surge tank acts as a buffer to absorb sudden pressure changes (water hammer) in pipeline systems. It helps in maintaining steady pressure, protecting the pipeline from potential damage due to rapid changes in flow velocity.

Answer 2

Problem-First: Ask what physical problem pipelines face when flow changes suddenly — water hammer, a pressure spike that can burst pipes.

A surge tank exists specifically to absorb these sudden pressure changes, acting as a buffer/cushion for the system — matching option 3.

Storing excess water, removing air, and increasing velocity are jobs for OTHER components (reservoirs, air valves, and pumps respectively), not a surge tank's defining role.