Problem solving
Engineer troubleshooting drill
A pump operator troubleshooting drill for pressure drops, weak supply, cavitation, foam issues, and discharge problems.
Drill plan
ObjectiveBuild a calm troubleshooting sequence instead of randomly increasing throttle.
Setup
- Scenario: pressure suddenly drops on a flowing handline
- Provide intake pressure and tank status
- Add one obvious clue: kink, hydrant issue, or discharge not fully open
- Have the operator verbalize first actions
Student taskStudents must state likely causes and corrective actions in order.
Expected answer pathCheck intake/supply, tank-to-pump, discharge gate, hose kinks, governor/relief behavior, cavitation signs, and crew reports. Correct the water supply issue before chasing pressure.
Common mistakes
- Forgetting to state nozzle pressure or required appliance/device pressure.
- Using GPM where PSI is needed, or PSI where GPM is needed.
- Adding elevation or appliance loss twice.
- Ignoring department SOPs, apparatus pump chart, or manufacturer data.
Instructor note: After the first answer, change one variable and repeat the calculation.
Print notes
This page is designed to print as a simple station drill handout. Use it with the calculator/tool link above to check student answers live.