Question 92Steam Plants - 1st Asst/Chief

The correct answer is A) a water seal line to the packing gland. The packing gland on a condensate pump acts as a seal to prevent air from leaking into the pump casing. By providing a water seal line to the packing gland, water is introduced to the gland, creating a positive pressure that prevents air from being drawn into the pump. This water seal is an effective way to maintain the integrity of the pump and prevent air leakage. The other options are incorrect because: B) an air seal line would not be effective in preventing air leakage, C) special packing alone may not be sufficient to fully prevent air from entering, and D) the vacuum in the pump suction would not actively prevent air leakage through the packing gland.