Motors and Generators

Question 1

If a reactor coolant pump (RCP) rotor seizes, RCP motor current will __________; and if the rotor
shears, RCP motor speed will __________.

A. increase, increase

B. increase, decrease

C. decrease, increase

D. decrease, decrease

Answer 1

increase, increase

Question 2

A nuclear power plant is operating at steady-state 80 percent power when a reactor coolant pump
(RCP) shaft seizes. Which one of the following indications would not accompany the seized shaft?

A. Reactor coolant system pressure transient.

B. Decreased flow rate in the associated reactor coolant loop.

C. Decreased flow rate in the remaining reactor coolant loop(s).

D. Increased current to the affected RCP with possible breaker trip.

Answer 2

Decreased flow rate in the remaining reactor coolant loop(s).

Question 3

A nuclear power plant is operating at steady-state 100 percent power when a reactor coolant pump
(RCP) malfunction occurs. Thirty seconds after the malfunction, which one of the following can be
used by an operator to determine whether the malfunction is a locked RCP rotor or a sheared RCP
rotor? (Assume no operator action is taken.)

A. Reactor trip status

B. Loop flow indications

C. RCP ammeter indications

D. Loop differential temperature indications

Answer 3

RCP ammeter indications

Question 4

During a reactor coolant pump (RCP) locked rotor event, RCP motor current will…

A. increase due to the increased rotor torque.

B. increase due to the increased counter electromotive force (CEMF) in the stator.

C. decrease due to the decreased pump flow rate.

D. decrease due to the increased CEMF in the rotor.

Answer 4

increase due to the increased rotor torque.

Question 5

A motor-driven cooling water pump is operating normally. How will pump motor current respond if
the pump experiences a locked rotor?

A. Decreases immediately to zero due to breaker trip.

B. Decreases immediately to no-load motor amps.

C. Increases immediately to many times running current, then decreases to no-load motor amps.

D. Increases immediately to many times running current, then decreases to zero upon breaker trip.

Answer 5

Increases immediately to many times running current, then decreases to zero upon breaker trip.

Question 6

A cooling water pump is being driven by an AC induction motor. Which one of the following
describes how and why pump motor current will change if the pump shaft seizes?

A. Decreases due to decreased pump flow rate.

B. Decreases due to increased counter electromotive force.

C. Increases due to decreased pump flow rate.

D. Increases due to decreased counter electromotive force.

Answer 6

Increases due to decreased counter electromotive force.

Question 7

A motor-driven centrifugal pump exhibits indications of pump failure while being started in an idle
cooling water system. Assuming the pump motor breaker does not trip, which one of the following
pairs of indications would be observed if the failure is a locked pump shaft?

A. Lower than normal running current with zero system flow rate.

B. Lower than normal running current with a fraction of normal system flow rate.

C. Excessive duration of peak starting current with zero system flow rate.

D. Excessive duration of peak starting current with a fraction of normal system flow rate.

Answer 7

Excessive duration of peak starting current with zero system flow rate.

Question 8

When an AC motor-driven centrifugal pump was started, the motor ammeter reading immediately
increased to, and stabilized at, many times the normal operating value. Which one of the following
describes a possible cause for the ammeter response?

A. The pump was started with a fully closed discharge valve.

B. The pump was started with a fully open discharge valve.

C. The pump shaft seized upon start and did not rotate.

D. The pump shaft separated from the motor shaft upon start.

Answer 8

The pump shaft seized upon start and did not rotate.

Question 9

If the generator bearings on a motor-generator set begin to overheat from excessive friction, which one
of the following will occur?

A. Generator current will begin to increase.

B. Generator windings will begin to heat up.

C. Motor current will begin to decrease.

D. Motor windings will begin to heat up.

Answer 9

Motor windings will begin to heat up.

Question 10

A thermal overload device for a large motor protects the motor from…

A. sustained overcurrent by opening the motor breaker or motor line contacts.

B. sustained overcurrent by opening contacts in the motor windings.

C. instantaneous overcurrent by opening the motor breaker or motor line contacts.

D. instantaneous overcurrent by opening contacts in the motor windings.

Answer 10

sustained overcurrent by opening the motor breaker or motor line contacts.

Question 11

Which one of the following will provide the initial motor protection against electrical damage caused
by gradual bearing failure?

A. Thermal overload device

B. Overcurrent trip relay

C. Underfrequency relay

D. Undervoltage device

Answer 11

Thermal overload device

Question 12

Which one of the following will result from prolonged operation of an AC induction motor with
excessively high stator temperatures?

A. Decreased electrical current demand due to reduced counter electromotive force.

B. Increased electrical current demand due to reduced counter electromotive force.

C. Decreased electrical resistance to ground due to breakdown of winding insulation.

D. Increased electrical resistance to ground due to breakdown of winding insulation.

Answer 12

Decreased electrical resistance to ground due to breakdown of winding insulation.

Question 13

Continuous operation of a motor at rated load with a loss of required cooling to the motor windings
will eventually result in…

A. cavitation of the pumped fluid.

B. failure of the motor overcurrent protection devices.

C. breakdown of the motor insulation and electrical grounds.

D. phase current imbalance in the motor and overspeed trip actuation

Answer 13

breakdown of the motor insulation and electrical grounds.

Question 14

Thermal overload devices will provide the first electrical protection for a pump motor in the
event of…

A. a locked rotor upon starting.

B. an electrical short circuit.

C. gradual motor bearing damage.

D. a sheared shaft during operation.

Answer 14

gradual motor bearing damage.

Question 15

Which one of the following trip signals will trip the breaker for an operating motor that experiences a
seized rotor?

A. Undervoltage

B. Underfrequency

C. Time-delayed overcurrent

D. Instantaneous overcurrent

Answer 15

Time-delayed overcurrent

Question 16

A large AC motor has a maximum ambient temperature rating of 40°C. Which one of the following
will occur if the motor is continuously operated at rated load with an ambient temperature of 50°C?

A. Accelerated embrittlement of the motor windings, leading to an open circuit within the motor
windings.

B. Accelerated embrittlement of the motor windings, leading to a short circuit within the motor
windings.

C. Accelerated breakdown of the motor winding insulation, leading to an open circuit within the
motor windings.

D. Accelerated breakdown of the motor winding insulation, leading to a short circuit within the motor
windings.

Answer 16

Accelerated breakdown of the motor winding insulation, leading to a short circuit within the motor
windings.

Question 17

A main generator that is connected to an infinite power grid has the following initial indications:
100 MW
0 MVAR
2,900 amps
20 KV
If main generator field current is reduced slightly, amps will __________; and MW will __________.

A. increase; decrease

B. decrease; decrease

C. increase; remain the same

D. decrease; remain the same

Answer 17

increase; remain the same

Question 18

Excessive current will be drawn by an AC induction motor that is operating…

A. completely unloaded.

B. at full load.

C. with open-circuited stator windings.

D. with short-circuited stator windings

Answer 18

with short-circuited stator windings

Question 19

A main generator that is connected to an infinite power grid has the following indications:
500 MW
300 MVAR (out)
2,800 amps
If main generator field current is reduced slightly, amps will __________; and MW will __________.

A. increase; decrease

B. increase; remain the same

C. decrease; decrease

D. decrease; remain the same

Answer 19

decrease; remain the same

Question 20

A main generator is connected to an infinite power grid. If the voltage supplied to the generator field
is slowly and continuously decreased, the generator will experience high current due to… (Assume no
generator protective actuations occur.)

A. excessive generator MW.

B. excessive generator MVAR out.

C. excessive generator MVAR in.

D. generator reverse power.

Answer 20

excessive generator MVAR in.

Question 21

An AC generator is supplying an isolated electrical system with a power factor of 1.0. If generator
voltage is held constant while real load (KW) increases, the current supplied by the generator will
increase in direct proportion to the __________ of the change in real load. (Assume the generator
power factor remains constant at 1.0.)

A. cube

B. square

C. amount

D. square root

Answer 21

amount

Question 22

A main generator that is connected to an infinite power grid has the following indications:
600 MW
100 MVAR (in)
13,800 amps
25 KV
If main generator excitation current is increased slightly, amps will initially __________; and MW
will initially __________.

A. decrease; increase

B. increase; increase

C. decrease; remain the same

D. increase; remain the same

Answer 22

decrease; remain the same

Question 23

A main generator that is connected to an infinite power grid has the following indications:
600 MW
100 MVAR (in)
13,800 amps
25 KV
If main generator excitation current is decreased slightly, amps will __________; and MVAR will
__________.

A. decrease; increase

B. increase; increase

C. decrease; decrease

D. increase; decrease

Answer 23

increase; increase

Question 24

A main generator is connected to an infinite power grid. Which one of the following conditions will
exist if the generator is operating underexcited?

A. Negative MVAR (VARs in) with a leading power factor

B. Positive MVAR (VARs out) with a leading power factor

C. Positive MVAR (VARs out) with a lagging power factor

D. Negative MVAR (VARs in) with a lagging power factor

Answer 24

Negative MVAR (VARs in) with a leading power factor

Question 25

A diesel generator (DG) is supplying both KW and KVAR to an electrical bus that is connected to an
infinite power grid. Assuming DG and bus voltage do not change, if the DG voltage regulator
setpoint is increased slightly, DG KW will __________; and DG amps will __________.

A. remain the same; increase

B. remain the same; remain the same

C. increase; increase

D. increase; remain the same

Answer 25

remain the same; increase

Question 26

A diesel generator (DG) is supplying an electrical bus that is connected to an infinite power grid.
Assuming DG terminal voltage and bus frequency do not change, if the DG governor setpoint is
increased from 60.0 Hz to 60.1 Hz, DG KVAR load will __________; and DG amps will __________.

A. increase; increase

B. increase; remain the same

C. remain the same; increase

D. remain the same; remain the same

Answer 26

remain the same; increase

Question 27

A main generator that is connected to an infinite power grid has the following indications:
600 MW
100 MVAR (out)
13,800 amps
25 KV
If main generator field current is decreased, amps will initially __________; and MVAR will initially
__________.

A. decrease; increase

B. increase; increase

C. decrease; decrease

D. increase; decrease

Answer 27

decrease; decrease

Question 28

A diesel generator (DG) is supplying both KW and KVAR to an electrical bus that is connected to an
infinite power grid. Assuming bus voltage does not change, if the DG voltage regulator setpoint is
decreased slightly, DG KW will __________; and DG amps will __________.

A. remain the same; decrease

B. remain the same; remain the same

C. decrease; decrease

D. decrease; remain the same

Answer 28

remain the same; decrease

Question 29

A main generator that is connected to an infinite power grid has the following indications:
100 MW
0 MVAR
2,900 amps
20 KV
If main generator excitation is increased, amps will __________; and MW will __________.

A. remain the same; increase

B. remain the same; remain the same

C. increase; increase

D. increase; remain the same

Answer 29

increase; remain the same

Question 30

A main generator is supplying power to an infinite power grid. If the generator field current is slowly
and continuously increased, the generator will experience high current due to: (Assume no generator
protective actuations occur.)

A. generator reverse power.

B. excessive generator MW.

C. excessive generator MVAR in.

D. excessive generator MVAR out.

Answer 30

excessive generator MVAR out.

Question 31

Two identical 1,000 MW generators are operating in parallel supplying the same isolated electrical
bus. The generator output breakers provide identical protection for the generators. Generator A and
B output indications are as follows:

A malfunction causes the voltage regulator for generator B to slowly and continuously increase the
terminal voltage for generator B. If no operator action is taken, generator B output current will…

A. increase continuously until the output breaker for generator A trips on overcurrent.

B. increase continuously until the output breaker for generator B trips on overcurrent.

C. initially decrease, and then increase until the output breaker for generator A trips on overcurrent.

D. initially decrease, and then increase until the output breaker for generator B trips on overcurrent.

Answer 31

initially decrease, and then increase until the output breaker for generator B trips on overcurrent.

Question 32

Refer to the partial drawing of two identical radial-flow centrifugal pumps in a cooling water system
(see figure below). Each pump is driven by an identical three-phase AC induction motor.
The cooling water system is being returned to service following maintenance on the pumps. Pump A
was started five minutes ago to initiate flow in the cooling water system. Pump B is about to be
started.
When pump B is started, which one of the following would cause the motor ammeter for pump B to
remain off-scale high for a longer time than usual before stabilizing at a lower running current?

A. Pump B was initially rotating in the reverse direction.

B. The motor coupling for pump B was removed and not reinstalled.

C. The packing material for pump B was removed and not reinstalled.

D. Two phases of the motor windings for pump B were electrically switched.

Answer 32

Pump B was initially rotating in the reverse direction.

Question 33

A main turbine-generator is operating in parallel with an infinite power grid. If the turbine control
valves (or throttle valves) slowly fail open, the generator will experience high current primarily due
to… (Assume no generator protective actuations occur.)

A. excessive generator MW.

B. excessive generator VARs out.

C. excessive generator VARs in.

D. generator reverse power.

Answer 33

excessive generator MW.

Question 34

A main generator is operating and connected to an infinite power grid. Elevated main generator
winding temperature requires a reduction in reactive load from 200 MVAR (out) to 150 MVAR (out).
To accomplish the reactive load reduction, the operator must __________ the generator field current;
when generator reactive load equals 150 MVAR (out) the generator power factor will be __________
than the initial power factor.

A. increase; larger

B. increase; smaller

C. decrease; larger

D. decrease; smaller

Answer 34

decrease; larger

Question 35

A main generator that is connected to an infinite power grid has the following indications:
22 KV
60 Hertz
575 MW
100 MVAR (in)
Which one of the following contains a combination of manual adjustments to the main generator
voltage regulator and speed control setpoints such that each adjustment will initially result in an
increase in main generator amps?

Answer 35

Decrease
Increase

Question 36

A nuclear power plant startup is in progress. The main generator has just been connected to the
power grid with the following generator indications:
20 KV
288 amps
10 MW
0 MVAR
The operator suspects the main generator is operating under reverse power conditions and attempts to
increase generator load (MW) normally. If the main generator is operating under reverse power
conditions when the operator attempts to increase generator load, generator MW will initially
__________; and generator amps will initially __________.

A. decrease; decrease

B. decrease; increase

C. increase; decrease

D. increase; increase

Answer 36

decrease; decrease

Question 37

A main generator is connected to an infinite power grid with the following generator output
parameters:
22 KV
60 Hertz
575 MW
100 MVAR (in)
Which one of the following contains a combination of manual adjustments to the main generator
voltage regulator and speed control setpoints such that each adjustment will initially result in a
decrease in main generator amps?

Answer 37

Increase
Decrease

Question 38

A main generator is connected to an infinite power grid with the following initial generator
parameters:
22 KV
60 Hertz
600 MW
100 MVAR (out)
Which one of the following contains a combination of manual adjustments to the main generator
voltage regulator and speed control setpoints such that each adjustment will initially result in an
increase in main generator amps?

Answer 38

Increase
Increase

Question 39

A main generator is connected to an infinite power grid. Which one of the following pairs of main
generator output parameters places the generator in the closest proximity to slipping a pole?

A. 800 MW; 200 MVAR (in)

B. 800 MW; 600 MVAR (in)

C. 400 MW; 200 MVAR (out)

D. 400 MW; 600 MVAR (out)

Answer 39

800 MW; 600 MVAR (in)

Question 40

A main generator is connected to an infinite power grid with the following initial generator
parameters:
22 KV
60 Hertz
600 MW
100 MVAR (out)
Which one of the following contains a combination of manual adjustments to the main generator
voltage regulator and speed control setpoints such that each adjustment will initially result in a
decrease in main generator amps?

Answer 40

Decrease
Decrease

Question 41

During a surveillance test, a 4,000 KW diesel generator (DG) and a 1,000 MW main generator (MG) at
a nuclear power plant are connected to the same power grid.
The following stable generator output conditions exist:

Diesel Generator
700 KW
800 MW

Main Generator
200 KVAR (out)
100 MVAR (out)

A malfunction then occurs, causing the voltage regulator for the MG to slowly and continuously
increase the MG field current. If no operator action is taken, the DG output current will __________
until a breaker trip separates the generators.

A. remain about the same

B. increase continuously

C. initially increase, and then decrease

D. initially decrease, and then increase

Answer 41

initially decrease, and then increase

Question 42

A main generator is connected to an infinite power grid with the following generator output
parameters:
22 KV
60 Hertz
575 MW
100 MVAR (in)
Which one of the following contains a combination of minor adjustments to the main generator
voltage regulator and speed control setpoints such that each adjustment will cause the main generator
to operate at a power factor closer to 1.0? (Assume the generator power factor remains less than 1.0.)

Answer 42

Increase
Increase

Question 43

A main turbine-generator is connected to an infinite power grid with the following generator output
parameters:
25 KV
20,000 amps
830 MW
248 MVAR (out)
Which one of the following will significantly increase main generator output amperage without a
significant change in main generator MW output? (Assume the generator power factor remains less
than 1.0.)

A. Increasing the main turbine speed control setpoint.

B. Increasing the main generator voltage regulator setpoint.

C. A 10 percent decrease in power grid electrical loads.

D. A 10 percent increase in power grid electrical loads.

Answer 43

Increasing the main generator voltage regulator setpoint.

Question 44

A main generator is connected to an infinite power grid with the following generator output
parameters:
22 KV
60 Hertz
575 MW
100 MVAR (out)
Which one of the following contains a combination of manual adjustments to the main generator
voltage regulator and speed control setpoints such that each adjustment will result in main generator
operation at a power factor closer to 1.0? (Assume the generator power factor remains less than 1.0.)

Answer 44

Decrease
Increase

Question 45

During a surveillance test, a 4,000 KW diesel generator (DG) and a 1,000 MW main generator (MG) at
a nuclear power plant are connected to a power grid.
The following stable generator output conditions initially exist:

Diesel Generator
700 KW
800 MW

Main Generator
200 KVAR (out)
100 MVAR (out)

A malfunction then occurs, causing the voltage regulator for the MG to slowly and continuously
decrease the MG field current. If no operator action is taken, the DG output current will __________
until a breaker trip separates the generators.

A. increase continuously

B. decrease continuously

C. initially increase, and then decrease

D. initially decrease, and then increase

Answer 45

increase continuously

Question 46

A main generator is connected to an infinite power grid with the following generator output
parameters:
100 MW
0 MVAR
2,625 amps
22 KV
If the main generator field current is decreased, main generator amps will initially __________; and
MW will initially __________.

A. decrease; decrease

B. increase; decrease

C. decrease; remain the same

D. increase; remain the same

Answer 46

increase; remain the same

Question 47

A 4,000 KW diesel generator (DG) is supplying 2,000 KW to a 4.16 KV emergency bus. The DG
governor is in the isochronous mode (no speed droop). The emergency bus is about to be
synchronized with, and then connected to, an infinite offsite power grid by closing the emergency bus
normal power feeder breaker.
The following stable emergency bus and normal power conditions currently exist:

Emergency Bus
(from DG)
4.16 KV
4.16 KV

Normal Power
(from Offsite)
60.0 Hz
60.1 Hz

When the emergency bus normal power feeder breaker is closed, the DG will… (Assume no
additional operator action.)

A. transfer KW load to the offsite power grid but remain partially loaded.

B. transfer KW load to the offsite power grid until the DG is completely unloaded.

C. acquire KW load from the offsite power grid but remain within its KW load rating.

D. acquire KW load from the offsite power grid and ultimately exceed its KW load rating.

Answer 47

transfer KW load to the offsite power grid until the DG is completely unloaded.

Question 48

A radial-flow centrifugal cooling water pump is being powered by a 480 VAC induction motor. If the
motor input voltage slowly decreases from 480 VAC to 450 VAC, the pump flow rate will
__________; and the motor current will __________. (Assume the motor does not stall.)

A. decrease; increase

B. decrease; decrease

C. remain the same; increase

D. remain the same; decrease

Answer 48

decrease; increase

Question 49

A main generator is connected to an infinite power grid with the following generator output
parameters:
22 KV
60 Hertz
575 MW
100 MVAR (out)
Which one of the following contains a combination of minor adjustments to the main generator
voltage regulator and speed control setpoints such that each adjustment will cause the main generator
to operate at a power factor farther from 1.0? (Assume the generator power factor remains less than
1.0.)

Answer 49

Increase
Decrease

Question 50

A main generator is connected to an infinite power grid with the following generator output
parameters:
22 KV
60 Hertz
975 MW
200 MVAR (out)
Main generator stator winding temperature is abnormally high. Which one of the following contains
a combination of manual adjustments to the main generator speed control and voltage regulator
setpoints such that each adjustment will reduce the main generator stator winding temperature?
(Assume power factor remains less than 1.0.)

Answer 50

Decrease
Decrease

Question 51

A 4,000 KW rated diesel generator (DG) is supplying 2,000 KW to a 4.16 KV emergency bus. The
DG governor is in the isochronous mode (no speed droop). The emergency bus is about to be
synchronized with, and then connected to, an infinite offsite power grid by closing the emergency bus
normal power feeder breaker.
The following stable emergency bus and normal power conditions currently exist:

Emergency Bus
(from DG)
4.16 KV
4.16 KV

Normal Power
(from Offsite)
60.1 Hz
59.9 Hz
When the emergency bus normal power feeder breaker is closed, the DG will… (Assume no
additional operator action is taken.)

A. transfer KW load to the offsite power grid, but remain partially loaded.

B. transfer KW load to the offsite power grid until the DG is completely unloaded.

C. acquire KW load from the offsite power grid, but remain within its KW load rating.

D. acquire KW load from the offsite power grid and ultimately exceed its KW load rating.

Answer 51

acquire KW load from the offsite power grid and ultimately exceed its KW load rating.

Question 52

A fault on the offsite AC electrical distribution system caused a sustained 30 percent voltage reduction
on all phases of the onsite three-phase AC electrical distribution system. As a result, several
operating three-phase AC induction motors in the plant experienced automatic breaker trips.
Which one of the following could be responsible for the automatic breaker trips?

A. Excessive motor current leading to breaker trips from thermal overload.

B. Excessive motor current leading to breaker trips from instantaneous overcurrent.

C. Insufficient breaker control power leading to breaker trips from trip mechanism
malfunctions.

D. Insufficient breaker control power leading to breaker trips from closing mechanism malfunctions.

Answer 52

Excessive motor current leading to breaker trips from thermal overload.

Question 53

A shutdown nuclear power plant is operating normally when an electrical fault causes a sustained 20
percent voltage reduction on all phases of the onsite three-phase AC electrical distribution system.
Assume that all previously-operating three-phase AC induction motors continue operating, and the
mechanical load on each motor remains the same.
As a result of the voltage reduction, the operating three-phase AC induction motors will draw
__________ current; and will experience __________ stator temperatures.

A. more; higher

B. more; lower

C. less; higher

D. less; lower

Answer 53

more; higher

Question 54

Refer to the partial drawing of two identical radial-flow centrifugal pumps in a cooling water system
(see figure below). Each pump is driven by an identical three-phase AC induction motor.
The cooling water system is being returned to service following maintenance on the pumps. Pump
A was started 5 minutes ago to initiate flow in the cooling water system.
When pump B is started, which one of the following will cause the ammeter for pump B to stabilize at
a higher-than-normal value for the pump configuration?

A. Pump B was initially rotating in the reverse direction.

B. There is an obstruction in the discharge piping from pump B.

C. The packing gland for pump B was overtightened since the pump last operated.

D. The shaft coupling between the motor and pump for pump B was removed and not reinstalled.

Answer 54

The packing gland for pump B was overtightened since the pump last operated.

Question 55

If the speed of a centrifugal pump is increased to double pump flow rate, pump motor current will…

A. remain constant.

B. increase two-fold (double).

C. increase four-fold.

D. increase eight-fold.

Answer 55

increase eight-fold.

Question 56

A motor-driven centrifugal pump is operating with the following parameters:
Pump speed = 1,800 rpm
Pump head = 100 psid
Motor current = 10 amps
What will be the approximate value of pump head if pump speed is increased such that the motor
draws 640 amps?

A. 400 psid

B. 800 psid

C. 1,200 psid

D. 1,600 psid

Answer 56

1,600 psid

Question 57

A motor-driven centrifugal pump is operating with a flow rate of 3,000 gpm and a current requirement
of 200 amps. If the pump speed is reduced such that the flow rate is 2,000 gpm, what is the final
current requirement at the new lower speed? (Assume a constant motor voltage.)

A. 59 amps

B. 89 amps

C. 133 amps

D. 150 amps

Answer 57

59 amps

Question 58

A motor-driven centrifugal pump is operating with the following parameters:
Speed
= 1,800 rpm
Motor current = 40 amps
Pump head
= 20 psi
Pump flow rate = 400 gpm
What will be the approximate values of pump head and motor current if pump speed is increased to
2,000 rpm?

A. 22 psi, 44 amps

B. 25 psi, 49 amps

C. 22 psi, 49 amps

D. 25 psi, 55 amps

Answer 58

25 psi, 55 amps

Question 59

A motor-driven centrifugal pump is operating at 600 rpm with the following parameters:
Motor current = 10 amps
Pump head = 50 psi
Pump flow rate = 200 gpm
What will be the approximate value of pump head if the flow is increased such that the motor draws
640 amps?

A. 400 psi

B. 600 psi

C. 800 psi

D. 1,200 psi

Answer 59

800 psi

Question 60

A motor-driven centrifugal pump is operating with a throttled discharge valve in an open system. If
the pump discharge valve is fully opened to increase system flow rate, which one of the following will
increase?

A. Pump discharge pressure

B. Available net positive suction head

C. Motor amps

D. Pump speed

Answer 60

Motor amps

Question 61

A centrifugal pump is operating with the following parameters:
Speed
= 3,600 rpm
Motor current = 100 amps
Pump head = 50 psi
Pump flow rate = 400 gpm
What will be the approximate values of pump head and motor current if pump speed is decreased to
2,000 rpm?

A. 8.6 psi, 30.1 amps

B. 8.6 psi, 17.1 amps

C. 15.4 psi, 30.1 amps

D. 15.4 psi, 17.1 amps

Answer 61

15.4 psi, 17.1 amps

Question 62

A two-speed centrifugal pump is driven by an AC motor with the following initial conditions:
Pump speed = 400 rpm
Motor current = 40 amps
Pump head = 60 psid
What will be the approximate value of pump head if pump speed is increased to 1,600 rpm?

A. 240 psid

B. 480 psid

C. 960 psid

D 3,840 psid

Answer 62

960 psid

Question 63

A motor-driven centrifugal pump is operating with the following parameters:
Speed
= 1,200 rpm
Motor current = 40 amps
Pump head
= 20 psid
Pump flow rate = 400 gpm
What will be the approximate values of pump head and motor current if pump speed is increased to
1,600 rpm?

A. 25 psid, 55 amps

B. 25 psid, 95 amps

C. 36 psid, 55 amps

D. 36 psid, 95 amps

Answer 63

36 psid, 95 amps

Question 64

A motor-driven centrifugal pump is operating with the following parameters:
Speed
= 1,200 rpm
Motor current = 40 amps
Pump head
= 20 psi
Pump flow rate = 400 gpm
What will be the approximate values of pump head and motor current if pump speed is increased to
1,800 rpm?

A. 36 psi, 95 amps

B. 36 psi, 135 amps

C. 45 psi, 95 amps

D. 45 psi, 135 amps

Answer 64

45 psi, 135 amps

Question 65

A motor-driven centrifugal pump is operating with the following parameters:
Speed
= 1,800 rpm
Motor current = 40 amps
Pump head
= 20 psid
Pump flow rate = 400 gpm
What will be the approximate values of pump head and motor current if pump speed is decreased to
1,200 rpm?

A. 13 psid, 18 amps

B. 13 psid, 12 amps

C. 9 psid, 18 amps

D. 9 psid, 12 amps

Answer 65

9 psid, 12 amps

Question 66

A motor-driven centrifugal pump is operating with a flow rate of 3,000 gpm and a motor current of
150 amps. If the pump speed is reduced such that the flow rate is 2,000 gpm, what is the final motor
current at the new lower speed?

A. 44 amps

B. 59 amps

C. 67 amps

D. 100 amps

Answer 66

44 amps

Question 67

A motor-driven centrifugal pump is operating at 600 rpm with the following parameters:
Motor current = 100 amps
Pump head
= 50 psid
Pump flow rate = 880 gpm
What will be the approximate value of pump head if pump speed is increased to 1,200 rpm?

A. 71 psid

B. 100 psid

C. 141 psid

D. 200 psid

Answer 67

200 psid

Question 68

A multi-speed centrifugal pump is operating at 3,600 rpm with a flow rate of 3,000 gpm. Which one
of the following approximates the new flow rate if the speed is decreased to 3,000 rpm?

A. 1,000 gpm

B. 1,500 gpm

C. 2,000 gpm

D. 2,500 gpm

Answer 68

2,500 gpm

Question 69

A multi-speed centrifugal pump is operating with a flow rate of 1,800 gpm at a speed of 3,600 rpm.
Which one of the following approximates the new flow rate if the pump speed is decreased to 2,400
rpm?

A. 900 gpm

B. 1,050 gpm

C. 1,200 gpm

D. 1,350 gpm

Answer 69

1,200 gpm

Question 70

A multi-speed motor-driven centrifugal pump is operating with the following parameters:
Motor current = 27 amps
Pump head
= 50 psid
Pump flow rate = 880 gpm
Which one of the following will be the approximate new value of pump head if pump speed is
increased such that the motor draws 64 amps?

A. 89 psid

B. 119 psid

C. 211 psid

D. 281 psid

Answer 70

89 psid

Question 71

Which one of the following describes the relationship between the current drawn by an AC induction
motor and the amount of heat generated in the motor windings?

A. Heat generation is directly proportional to the current.

B. Heat generation is proportional to the cube of the current.

C. Heat generation is proportional to the square of the current.

D. Heat generation is proportional to the square root of the current.

Answer 71

Heat generation is proportional to the square of the current.

Question 72

A motor-driven centrifugal pump is operating at 600 rpm with the following parameters:
Motor current = 100 amps
Pump head
= 50 psid
Pump flow rate = 880 gpm
What will be the approximate value of pump head if pump speed is increased such that the motor
draws 640 amps?

A. 93 psid

B. 126 psid

C. 173 psid

D. 320 psid

Answer 72

173 psid

Question 73

A rotary positive displacement pump (PDP) is being used to supply water to a piping system. The
PDP is driven by an AC induction motor. The initial parameters are:
System pressure
= 500 psig
PDP flow rate
= 50 gpm
PDP motor current = 40 amps
After several hours, the PDP motor speed is increased such that the new PDP flow rate is 100 gpm. If
system pressure does not change, what is the approximate value of the PDP motor current at the 100
gpm flow rate?

A. 80 amps

B. 160 amps

C. 320 amps

D. 640 amps

Answer 73

80 amps

Question 74

Refer to the pump performance curves for a centrifugal cooling water pump (see figure below). The
pump is being driven by a single-speed AC induction motor. Pump flow rate is being controlled by a
throttled discharge flow control valve.
The following initial pump conditions exist:
Pump motor current = 50 amps
Pump flow rate
= 400 gpm
What will be the approximate value of pump motor current if the flow control valve is repositioned
such that pump flow rate is 800 gpm?

A. Less than 100 amps

B. 200 amps

C. 400 amps

D. More than 500 amps

Answer 74

Less than 100 amps

Question 75

Consider two identical single-speed AC induction motors, one of which is connected to a radial-flow
centrifugal pump and the other to a reciprocating-type positive displacement pump (PDP). Both
pumps are taking suction at the same elevation from a vented water storage tank.
Each pump has a maximum design backpressure of 800 psig, and each is operating with the following
initial conditions:
Flow rate
= 200 gpm
Backpressure = 400 psig
Motor current = 100 amps
If the backpressure for each pump increases to 600 psig, the centrifugal pump will have a __________
flow rate than the PDP; and the centrifugal pump will have a __________ motor current than the PDP.

A. lower; higher

B. lower; lower

C. higher; higher

D. higher; lower

Answer 75

lower; lower

Question 76

Refer to the pump performance curves for a centrifugal cooling water pump (see figure below). The
pump is being driven by a single-speed AC induction motor. Pump flow rate is being controlled by a
throttled discharge flow control valve.
The following initial pump conditions exist:
Motor current = 100 amps
Pump flow rate = 800 gpm
What will be the approximate value of pump motor current if the flow control valve is repositioned
such that pump flow rate decreases to 400 gpm?

A. Less than 15 amps

B. 25 amps

C. 50 amps

D. Greater than 75 amps

Answer 76

Greater than 75 amps

Question 77

An AC induction motor is connected to a radial-flow centrifugal pump in a cooling water system.
When the pump is started, the time period required to reach a stable running current will be shorter if
the pump discharge valve is fully __________; and the stable running current will be lower if the
pump discharge valve is fully __________.

A. open; open

B. open; closed

C. closed; open

D. closed; closed

Answer 77

closed; closed

Question 78

A centrifugal pump is driven by a single-speed AC induction motor. Pump flow rate is controlled by
a throttled discharge flow control valve.
The following initial pump conditions exist:
Pump motor current = 50 amps
Pump flow rate
= 400 gpm
What will the resulting pump motor current be if the flow control valve is repositioned such that pump
flow rate increases to 800 gpm?

A. 100 amps

B. 200 amps

C. 400 amps

D. Cannot be determined without additional information

Answer 78

Cannot be determined without additional information

Question 79

An axial flow ventilation fan is being driven by an AC motor. The fan is operating at its maximum
rated flow rate. How will the fan motor current initially change if the flow rate through the fan is
decreased by partially closing a discharge damper?

A. The motor current will increase in accordance with the centrifugal pump laws.

B. The motor current will increase, but not in accordance with the centrifugal pump laws.

C. The motor current will decrease in accordance with the centrifugal pump laws.

D. The motor current will decrease, but not in accordance with the centrifugal pump laws.

Answer 79

The motor current will increase, but not in accordance with the centrifugal pump laws.

Question 80

Consider two identical single-speed AC induction motors, one of which is connected to a radial-flow
centrifugal pump and the other to a rotary-type positive displacement pump (PDP). Both pumps are
taking suction from the bottom of a vented water storage tank.
Each pump is operating with the following initial conditions:
Flow rate = 200 gpm
Backpressure = 600 psig
Motor current = 100 amps
If the backpressure for each pump decreases to 400 psig, the centrifugal pump will have a __________
flow rate than the PDP; and the centrifugal pump will have a __________ motor current than the PDP.

A. lower; lower

B. lower; higher

C. higher; lower

D. higher; higher

Answer 80

higher; higher

Question 81

Refer to the pump performance curves for a centrifugal cooling water pump (see figure below). The
pump is being driven by a single-speed AC induction motor. Pump flow rate is being controlled by a
throttled discharge flow control valve.
The following initial pump conditions exist:
Motor current = 10 amps
Pump flow rate = 200 gpm
What will be the approximate value of pump motor current if the flow control valve is repositioned
such that pump flow rate increases to 800 gpm?

A. 15 amps

B. 40 amps

C. 160 amps

D. Greater than 200 amps

Answer 81

15 amps

Question 82

A motor-driven radial-flow centrifugal pump is operating to provide makeup water from a constant
head source to a vented storage tank that is 30 feet tall. The pump is located at the base of the tank
and discharges directly into the bottom of the tank. As the tank water level increases from 20 to 25
feet, the pump discharge pressure will __________; and the pump motor current will __________.

A. decrease; decrease

B. decrease; increase

C. increase; decrease

D. increase; increase

Answer 82

increase; decrease

Question 83

An air-cooled AC induction motor is initially operating at steady-state conditions, producing a work
output of 50 hp. A reduction in cooling air flow rate to the motor causes the average stator winding
temperature to increase by 20ºF. To maintain a 50 hp work output at the higher stator winding
temperature, the voltage applied to the motor must be __________ because the stator winding
resistance has __________.

A. increased; increased

B. increased; decreased

C. decreased; increased

D. decreased; decreased

Answer 83

increased; increased

Question 84

The rate of heat production in the stator windings of an AC induction motor is __________
proportional to the __________ of the stator current.

A. directly, square

B. directly; amount

C. inversely; square

D. inversely; amount

Answer 84

directly, square

Question 85

An axial flow ventilation fan is being driven by an AC motor. The fan is operating at 90 percent of
rated flow rate with its discharge damper partially closed. How will the fan motor current change if
its discharge damper is fully opened?

A. The motor current will increase in accordance with the centrifugal pump laws.

B. The motor current will increase, but not in accordance with the centrifugal pump laws.

C. The motor current will decrease in accordance with the centrifugal pump laws.

D. The motor current will decrease, but not in accordance with the centrifugal pump laws.

Answer 85

The motor current will decrease, but not in accordance with the centrifugal pump laws.

Question 86

Initially, an AC induction motor is operating with the following steady-state conditions:
Motor current
= 25 amps
Average stator winding temperature = 140°F
Ambient temperature
= 90°F
Assume the stator winding electrical resistance, motor heat transfer properties, and ambient
temperature do not change. If a change in motor load causes the motor current to increase to 50 amps,
which one of the following will be the new steady-state average stator winding temperature?

A. 190°F

B. 200°F

C. 280°F

D. 290°F

Answer 86

290°F

Question 87

Refer to the partial drawing of two identical centrifugal pumps in a cooling water system (see figure
below). Each pump is driven by an identical three-phase AC induction motor.
The cooling water system is being returned to service following maintenance on the pumps. Pump A
was started five minutes ago to initiate flow in the cooling water system. Pump B is about to be
started.
When pump B is started, which one of the following will cause pump B to experience high starting
current for a shorter time than usual before stabilizing at a lower running current?

A. Pump B is initially rotating in the reverse direction.

B. The motor coupling for pump B was removed and not reinstalled.

C. The packing gland for pump B was tightened since the pump last operated.

D. The voltage applied to the motor for pump B is 20 percent lower than normal.

Answer 87

The motor coupling for pump B was removed and not reinstalled.

Question 88

Refer to the partial drawing of two identical single-speed radial-flow centrifugal pumps in a cooling
water system (see figure below). Pumps 1 and 2 are driven by identical three-phase AC induction
motors. Initially, pump 1 is operating normally and pump 2 is stopped.
Then pump 2 is started, but its discharge check valve remains partially closed. When conditions
stabilize, pump _____ will have the smaller motor current; and pump _____ will have the greater
discharge head.

A. 1; 1

B. 1; 2

C. 2; 1

D. 2; 2

Answer 88

2; 2

Question 89

The starting current for a typical AC induction motor is usually much higher than the full-load running
current because…

A. starting torque is lower than full-load running torque.

B. starting torque is higher than full-load running torque.

C. rotor speed during start is too low to generate significant counter electromotive force in the stator.

D. rotor current during start is too low to generate significant counter electromotive force in the stator.

Answer 89

rotor speed during start is too low to generate significant counter electromotive force in the stator.

Question 90

The average starting current for a typical AC induction motor is approximately…

A. ten to fifteen times its normal running current.

B. five to seven times its normal running current.

C. two to three times its normal running current.

D. the same as its normal running current.

Answer 90

five to seven times its normal running current.

Question 91

Which one of the following describes the motor current indications that would be observed during the
start of a large AC motor connected to a load?

A. Amps slowly increase to the normal operating value over a period of five time constants.

B. Amps immediately increase to the normal operating value and stabilize.

C. Amps immediately increase to many times the normal operating value and then decrease to the
normal operating value.

D. Amps immediately increase to the full-scale value and then decrease rapidly to zero due to
overload protection.

Answer 91

Amps immediately increase to many times the normal operating value and then decrease to the
normal operating value.

Question 92

If the discharge valve of a large motor-driven centrifugal pump is kept closed during a normal pump
start, the current indication for the AC induction motor will rise to…

A. approximately the full-load current value, and then decrease to the no-load current value.

B. approximately the full-load current value, and then stabilize at the full-load current value.

C. several times the full-load current value, and then decrease to the no-load current value.

D. several times the full-load current value, and then decrease to the full-load value.

Answer 92

several times the full-load current value, and then decrease to the no-load current value.

Question 93

Which one of the following is a characteristic of a typical AC induction motor that causes starting
current to be greater than running current?

A. The rotor magnetic field induces an opposing voltage in the stator that is proportional to rotor
speed.

B. After the motor starts, resistors are added to the electrical circuit to limit the running current.

C. A large amount of starting current is required to initially establish a rotating magnetic field.

D. The rotor does not develop maximum induced current flow until it has achieved synchronous
speed.

Answer 93

The rotor magnetic field induces an opposing voltage in the stator that is proportional to rotor
speed.

Question 94

The starting current in an AC motor is significantly higher than the full-load running current because…

A. little counter electromotive force is induced in the rotor windings during motor start.

B. motor torque production is highest during motor start.

C. little counter electromotive force is induced in the stator windings during motor start.

D. work performed by the motor is highest during motor start.

Answer 94

little counter electromotive force is induced in the stator windings during motor start.

Question 95

Starting current in an AC induction motor is typically __________ times the full-load running current.

A. 1/4 to 1/2

B. 2 to 3

C. 5 to 7

D. 10 to 12

Answer 95

5 to 7

Question 96

Which one of the following describes the motor current during the start of a typical motor-driven
radial-flow centrifugal pump with a closed discharge valve?

A. Current immediately increases to the full-load value and then gradually decreases to the no-load
value.

B. Current immediately increases to the full-load value and then stabilizes at the full-load value.

C. Current immediately increases to many times the full-load value and then rapidly decreases to the
no-load value after several seconds and then stabilizes.

D. Current immediately increases to many times the full-load value and then rapidly decreases to the
full-load value after several seconds and then stabilizes.

Answer 96

Current immediately increases to many times the full-load value and then rapidly decreases to the
no-load value after several seconds and then stabilizes.

Question 97

Which one of the following describes the motor current indications that would be observed during the
start of a large motor-driven radial-flow centrifugal pump with a closed discharge valve?

A. Current immediately increases to the full-load value and then gradually decreases to the no-load
value over several minutes.

B. Current immediately increases to the no-load value and then stabilizes.

C. Current immediately increases to many times the no-load value and then rapidly decreases to the
no-load value after several seconds.

D. Current immediately increases to many times the no-load value and then gradually decreases to the
no-load value after several minutes.

Answer 97

Current immediately increases to many times the no-load value and then rapidly decreases to the
no-load value after several seconds.

Question 98

Two identical AC induction motors are connected to identical radial-flow centrifugal pumps being
used to provide cooling water flow in separate systems in a nuclear power plant. Each motor is rated
at 1,000 hp. The discharge valve for pump A is fully open and the discharge valve for pump B is fully
shut. Each pump is currently off.
If the pumps are started under these conditions, the longer time period required to stabilize motor
current will be experienced by the motor for pump _____; and the higher stable motor current will be
experienced by the motor for pump _____.

A. A; A

B. A; B

C. B; A

D. B; B

Answer 98

A; A

Question 99

Which one of the following describes when the highest stator current will be experienced by an AC
induction motor?

A. During motor operation at full load.

B. During motor operation at zero load.

C. Immediately after energizing the motor.

D. Immediately after deenergizing the motor.

Answer 99

Immediately after energizing the motor.

Question 100

Two identical AC induction motors are connected to identical radial-flow centrifugal pumps in
identical but separate cooling water systems. Each motor is rated at 200 hp. The discharge valve for
pump A is fully shut and the discharge valve for pump B is fully open. Each pump is currently off.
If the pumps are started under these conditions, the longer time period required to stabilize motor
current will be experienced by the motor for pump _____; and the higher stable motor current will be
experienced by the motor for pump _____.

A. A; A

B. A; B

C. B; A

D. B; B

Answer 100

B; B

Question 101

Two identical AC induction motors are connected to identical radial-flow centrifugal pumps in
identical but separate cooling water systems. Each motor is rated at 200 hp. The discharge valve for
pump A is fully shut and the discharge valve for pump B is fully open. Each pump is currently off.
If the pumps are started under these conditions, the shorter time period required to reach a stable
running current will be experienced by the motor for pump _____; and the higher stable running
current will be experienced by the motor for pump _____.

A. A; A

B. A; B

C. B; A

D. B; B

Answer 101

A; B

Question 102

To minimize the duration of high starting current, an AC induction motor should be started
__________ to __________ the stator counter electromotive force.

A. unloaded; quickly establish

B. unloaded; delay

C. partially loaded; quickly establish

D. partially loaded; delay

Answer 102

unloaded; quickly establish

Question 103

Two identical AC induction motors are connected to identical radial-flow centrifugal pumps in
identical but separate cooling water systems. Each motor is rated at 200 hp. The discharge valve for
pump A is fully open and the discharge valve for pump B is fully closed. Each pump is currently off.
If the pumps are started under these conditions, the shorter time period required to reach a stable
running current will be experienced by the motor for pump _____; and the higher stable running
current will be experienced by the motor for pump _____.

A. A; A

B. A; B

C. B; A

D. B; B

Answer 103

B; A

Question 104

What is the primary reason for limiting the number of starts for an electric motor in a given period of
time?

A. Prevent overheating of the windings due to high starting currents.

B. Prevent overheating of the windings due to shorting within the stator.

C. Prevent rotor damage due to excessive cyclic stresses on the shaft.

D. Prevent rotor damage due to excessive axial displacement of the shaft.

Answer 104

Prevent overheating of the windings due to high starting currents.

Question 105

The frequency of starts for large AC motors should be limited to prevent excessive…

A. heat buildup within the motor.

B. wear of pump thrust bearings.

C. torsional stresses on the motor shaft.

D. arcing and degradation of motor breaker contacts.

Answer 105

heat buildup within the motor.

Question 106

The number of starts for an electric motor in a given period of time should be limited because
overheating of the __________ can occur due to the __________ counter electromotive force
produced at low rotor speeds.

A. windings; low

B. windings; high

C. commutator and/or slip rings; low

D. commutator and/or slip rings; high

Answer 106

windings; low

Question 107

The frequency of start/stop cycles for an electrical motor is limited to prevent…

A. overheating the motor windings.

B. overheating the motor supply bus.

C. excessive shaft torsional stresses.

D. excessive cycling of the motor breaker.

Answer 107

overheating the motor windings.

Question 108

Frequent starts of large motors will result in overheating of the motor windings due to high current
flow caused by…

A. low electrical resistance of the motor windings.

B. an electrical short circuit between the rotor and stator.

C. high counter electromotive force at low rotor speeds.

D. windage losses between the rotor and stator.

Answer 108

low electrical resistance of the motor windings.

Question 109

Which one of the following is the primary reason for limiting the number of motor starts in a given
time period?

A. Minimizes pitting of contacts in the motor breaker.

B. Prevents excessive torsional stresses on the motor shaft.

C. Prevents overheating of the motor windings.

D. Minimizes axial stresses on the motor bearings.

Answer 109

Prevents overheating of the motor windings.

Question 110

A large centrifugal pump is driven by a 200 horsepower AC induction motor. The motor breaker
control circuit contains the following protection devices: instantaneous overcurrent relay, motor
thermal overload relay, control power fuses, and an anti-pumping device.
The pump had been manually started and stopped several times during a 5 minute period when the
motor breaker tripped. Which one of the following is the most likely cause of the breaker trip?

A. Motor thermal overload.

B. Instantaneous overcurrent.

C. Blown control power fuse.

D. Anti-pumping device actuation

Answer 110

Motor thermal overload.