What happens when a misaligned pipe flange is bolted up to an aligned pump's suction flange?

When a misaligned pipe flange is bolted to an aligned pump's suction flange, it results in improper alignment between the pump and motor. The flanges are intended to connect perfectly to ensure that the fluid flows smoothly and that the mechanical components operate correctly without stress or strain. When these components are misaligned, it creates an uneven connection, which can lead to several operational issues.

Misalignment can cause increased wear and tear on both the pump and motor, potentially leading to vibration, increased friction, and even premature equipment failure. This misalignment creates a scenario where the load is unevenly distributed, and both components are not positioned correctly in relation to each other. Therefore, it is critical to ensure proper alignment during installation to maintain the operational integrity and efficiency of pumping systems.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the consequences of misalignment and fail to connect the physical repercussions of improperly aligned components.