The drafting process involves pumping water from a static water source using suction. Which option correctly describes this concept?

• A. Priming the pump using a discharge valve
• B. Pumping water from a static water source using suction
• C. Designed to reduce friction losses
• D. Using a hand pump only

Answer: (B)

Drafting means drawing water from a static body through suction to feed the pump. Since a static source has little to no internal pressure, you create a vacuum in the pump and suction line so atmospheric pressure can push water up into the pump. The water is pulled into the pump once the line and pump are primed with water, which eliminates air pockets. This option describes exactly that process—pumping water from a static water source using suction. The other statements don’t capture the drafting idea: priming with a discharge valve isn’t how drafting is defined, reducing friction losses is about efficiency rather than lifting water through suction, and a hand pump isn’t a requirement for drafting.