What is involved in a cascade pumping arrangement?

• A. A single pump connected directly to the attack line.
• B. A staged arrangement using multiple pumps or booster units to maintain system pressure for long relay runs.
• C. An emergency shutdown.
• D. A layout for draining water.

Answer: (B)

Cascade pumping is a staged, multi-pump setup where several pumps or booster units are arranged in series to sustain and raise discharge pressure along a long relay run. This approach counters friction losses and source limitations that a single pump can’t overcome, especially when water must travel far or through many sections of hose. In practice, water flows from the source through successive pumps, with each unit adding head so the farthest attack lines still receive the required pressure and flow. A single pump connected directly to the attack line would not maintain adequate pressure over a long distance, while an emergency shutdown or a drainage layout does not describe this method of maintaining pressure along extended runs.