Question 4352 Deck General

The correct answer is C) shut down one pump. When two ballast pumps used for deballasting a single tank start cavitating, it indicates that the pumps are not able to draw enough water to meet the demand. Shutting down one of the pumps will reduce the demand on the system and allow the remaining pump to operate without cavitating. This prevents damage to the pump impellers and helps maintain the integrity of the ballast system. The other options are incorrect because closing the discharge valve (A) or opening all discharge valves (B) would not address the root cause of the cavitation, which is excessive demand on the pumps. Closing the suction valve (D) would only make the cavitation worse by further restricting the flow to the pump.