True or False: The discharge on a centrifugal pump can be closed for short periods without causing damage.

The statement that the discharge on a centrifugal pump can be closed for short periods without causing damage is indeed true under specific conditions. Centrifugal pumps typically handle flow effectively, and if the discharge is closed momentarily, the pump can maintain pressure for a short while as long as it is designed for such operations.

When the discharge is closed, the fluid inside the pump's casing can lead to an increase in pressure. However, if this condition is brief, many modern centrifugal pumps are built to withstand a sudden pressure rise without sustaining damage. Furthermore, many centrifugal pumps are designed with features such as pressure relief valves that can help manage the increased pressure if discharge closure occurs.

It's important to note that while this can be true, repetitive or prolonged closure of the discharge, or operating in conditions leading to overheating, cavitation, or exceeding the maximum allowable pressure for that particular pump, can be detrimental. Hence, while it's safe in the short term, understanding the operational limits and characteristics of the pump is critical for maintaining its function and longevity.