In pump houses and water-supply pumping stations, which pipe joint is most commonly used for connecting pumps, valves, and ancillary fittings requiring rigid, maintainable connections?

Introduction / Context:
Pumping stations demand robust, leak-tight, and maintainable connections between pumps, valves, and pipelines. The joint type must allow dismantling for inspection and replacement while ensuring alignment and rigidity under pressure and vibration.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Pressurized service with frequent maintenance needs.
• Alignment accuracy and rigidity are important.
• Connections to pumps, valves, meters, and strainers.

Concept / Approach:
Flanged joints provide positive bolted connections, precise gasketed sealing surfaces, and easy dismantling for maintenance. They are standard in pump rooms for equipment nozzles and appurtenances. Other joints are used elsewhere in distribution but are less suited for equipment interfaces.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Manufacturer installation manuals and plant standards specify flanged ends for pumps and valves; dismantling joints or dresser couplings may be added nearby for ease of removal, but the principal connection remains flanged.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Socket and spigot/flexible: typical for buried lines, not for equipment connections.
• Expansion joints: used to absorb thermal movement, not as the primary pump connection.
• Dresser couplings: helpful for minor misalignment or quick repairs, but not the standard pump nozzle joint.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming the same joint type is ideal everywhere; overlooking maintenance requirements in pump houses.

Final Answer:
flanged joint