California ICC UST Inspector Practice Exam

What does not describe the construction of suction piping?

1. Suction piping operates at less than atmospheric pressure

2. Valves or pumps can be installed below grade

3. The piping is sloped for drainage into the storage tank

4. Only one check valve is located close to the suction pump

The correct answer is: Valves or pumps can be installed below grade

The construction of suction piping is primarily characterized by its operation under specific conditions and requirements. The correct answer indicates that having valves or pumps installed below grade does not accurately describe the construction of suction piping. Suction piping operates at pressures that are typically less than atmospheric pressure, which is essential to facilitate the movement of liquids from a storage tank to a pump. This characteristic underlines the critical aspect of keeping the system sealed and maintaining the correct pressure dynamics. When it comes to drainage, the installation of suction piping is designed with a slope towards the storage tank. This ensures that any liquid, including potential spills or accumulation, effectively drains back into the tank without causing blockages or other issues. In the context of check valves, it is standard practice to have only one check valve located close to the suction pump. This is to prevent backflow and ensure that the system maintains proper suction pressure without unnecessary complexity or additional failure points. Installing valves or pumps below grade poses a risk because it can lead to complications such as potential siphoning effects and challenges in venting and maintenance. For these reasons, not maintaining components above grade does not align with the typical protocols and best practices regarding suction piping construction.