Tennessee Wastewater Operator Practice Exam

What is the role of a check valve in a blower system?

1. To prevent backflow of air

2. To regulate airflow pressure

3. To increase the speed of airflow

4. To maintain consistent blower temperature

The correct answer is: To prevent backflow of air

The role of a check valve in a blower system is primarily to prevent backflow of air. This is crucial because, in systems where blowers are used to move air or gas, backflow can cause several issues, including inefficiencies in the system operation and potential damage to components. When the blower is operating, it creates a pressure differential that pushes air through the system. If there is no check valve in place, and the blower stops or malfunctions, the air could flow back into the blower, which can lead to equipment wear or failure. The check valve operates by allowing flow in only one direction. This ensures that once the air has been pushed through the system, it cannot return, maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the airflow and protecting the blower from potential damage caused by back currents. While regulating airflow pressure, increasing the speed of airflow, and maintaining consistent blower temperature are important aspects of blower operation, they are not the primary function of a check valve. These functions are typically managed by other components such as regulators, flow controllers, or specialized temperature controls within the system.