In drafting, what is the correct interpretation of the LIFT used for calculating intake height?

In drafting, what is the correct interpretation of the LIFT used for calculating intake height?

• A. It determines the horizontal distance from the source to the intake.
• B. It determines the height of the tank above ground.
• C. It determines the vertical distance from the water surface to the intake centerline.
• D. It indicates the maximum pump capacity.

Answer: (C)

Lift is the vertical distance water must be lifted from the surface of the source up to the centerline of the intake. When you calculate intake height in drafting, you’re using that vertical difference to determine how high the intake must be placed relative to the water’s surface, so the pump can maintain prime and overcome that suction head. This is why it’s not about horizontal distance to the source, the tank’s height above ground, or the pump’s maximum capacity—the essential factor for intake height is the vertical span from water surface to the intake centerline.

Lift is the vertical distance water must be lifted from the surface of the source up to the centerline of the intake. When you calculate intake height in drafting, you’re using that vertical difference to determine how high the intake must be placed relative to the water’s surface, so the pump can maintain prime and overcome that suction head. This is why it’s not about horizontal distance to the source, the tank’s height above ground, or the pump’s maximum capacity—the essential factor for intake height is the vertical span from water surface to the intake centerline.