As an engineer, what action should you avoid when the discharge pressure of your condenser water pumps is significantly lower than normal?

When faced with a significant drop in discharge pressure from condenser water pumps, the action of putting on an additional surface condenser pump should be avoided because it does not directly address the underlying issues that could be causing the lower than normal pressure. Instead, this action can lead to operational inefficiencies or exacerbate the existing problem.

In situations where the discharge pressure is low, it is crucial to investigate the root causes behind the drop first. Common causes might include issues in the system such as blockages, leaks, or air pockets, all of which could lead to inadequate flow and pressure. Adding more pumps without addressing these issues can potentially overload the system, lead to increased energy consumption, and create further complications in fluid dynamics.

The approach involves understanding the system's current operational state and evaluating factors like pump performance, flow rates, pipe conditions, and any potential obstructions. By focusing on diagnosing and correcting these elements, engineers ensure the efficient functioning of the cooling system rather than merely compensating with additional pumping capacity.