When do series pumps intake from the discharge of another pump?

In a system utilizing series pumps, the configuration allows for one pump to take in the discharge from another pump during normal operation. This is particularly effective in boosting pressure and enhancing flow rates within a hydraulic system.

When the pumps are organized in series, the first pump raises the fluid's pressure before it is transported to the second pump. This allows for a continuous flow and higher overall system pressure, which is essential in applications like fire suppression systems where adequate pressure is crucial for efficient operation.

Using pumps in series is a strategic design choice to achieve higher performance levels than individual pumps alone could provide. In contrast, maintenance scenarios focus on servicing or inspecting the equipment rather than utilizing the pumps for their intended function. Similarly, while pump failures can result in operational changes or challenges, they do not reflect the standard operational method, and exceeding demand typically calls for methods such as adding additional pumps rather than relying on the existing series configuration.