Question

The suction and discharge headers of Triplex pump in Homogenizer are provided to

• A. Give sturdy construction
• B. Provide easy pipe line fitting
• C. Avoid contamination of oil
• D. Reduce pulsations in suction and discharge

Hint:

Homogenizer Pump Mechanics: HEADERS Dampeners on Triplex pumps serve to REDUCE PRESSURE PULSATIONS in suction and discharge pipelines.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
High-pressure homogenizer reciprocating hydraulics: Triplex positive displacement pumps utilize three reciprocating plungers operating 120° out of phase connected to suction and discharge manifold headers (surge dampening chambers) to smooth fluid flow and reduce pressure pulsations in suction and discharge lines.
Key Formula or Approach:
\[ \text{Triplex Plunger Kinematics: 3 Plungers at } 120^\circ \text{ Offset} + \text{Manifold Headers} \implies \mathbf{\text{Reduces Pressure Pulsations } (\pm 10\%)} \]

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
In high-pressure milk homogenizer engineering and pump mechanics:
- A dairy high-pressure homogenizer utilizes a heavy-duty Triplex Positive Displacement Plunger Pump generating pressures up to $200 - 300\text{ bar}$:
1. Reciprocating pistons inherently draw and discharge liquid in pulsating, intermittent cyclic strokes.
2. Severe pressure surges (water hammer) can burst upstream feed pipelines and cause severe cavitation at the suction manifold.
3. Suction and Discharge Headers (Manifold Dampeners) (D): Installed on the pump block to provide expanded fluid buffer volume that dampens flow velocity spikes and Reduces pulsations in both suction and discharge lines, ensuring smooth, continuous, non-surging milk delivery across the homogenizing valve seat.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Therefore, suction and discharge headers are provided to Reduce pulsations in suction and discharge, corresponding to option (D).