The purpose of packing is to:

The purpose of packing is to:

• A. Reduce noise
• B. Control water leakage along the pump's shaft
• C. Shear fluid
• D. Guide the impeller

Answer: (B)

The purpose of packing in a pump system is primarily to control water leakage along the pump's shaft. Packing, which typically consists of a series of fiber or composite rings, is placed in a stuffing box around the shaft. When the packing is compressed against the shaft, it forms a seal that prevents fluid from leaking out of the pump. Properly installed packing allows for a minimal amount of leakage, which is often desirable as it can help lubricate the shaft. In contrast, reducing noise, shearing fluid, and guiding the impeller do not align with the primary function of packing. Reducing noise may be achieved through other mechanisms or materials, shearing fluid typically involves some form of mechanical action rather than sealing, and guiding the impeller refers to the function of bearings or specific design elements rather than packing itself. Thus, the correct focus is on packing's role in maintaining a seal to control leakage around the pump's shaft.

The purpose of packing in a pump system is primarily to control water leakage along the pump's shaft. Packing, which typically consists of a series of fiber or composite rings, is placed in a stuffing box around the shaft. When the packing is compressed against the shaft, it forms a seal that prevents fluid from leaking out of the pump. Properly installed packing allows for a minimal amount of leakage, which is often desirable as it can help lubricate the shaft.

In contrast, reducing noise, shearing fluid, and guiding the impeller do not align with the primary function of packing. Reducing noise may be achieved through other mechanisms or materials, shearing fluid typically involves some form of mechanical action rather than sealing, and guiding the impeller refers to the function of bearings or specific design elements rather than packing itself. Thus, the correct focus is on packing's role in maintaining a seal to control leakage around the pump's shaft.