Process Plant Technician Certification Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf
- What is the primary purpose of a heat exchanger in a process plant?
- To filter solids from liquids
- To transfer heat between two fluids
- To increase fluid velocity
- To separate gases from liquids
Answer: B
Rationale: Heat exchangers are used to transfer heat between fluids
without mixing them, maintaining process efficiency and temperature control. 1 / 4
- Which of the following is a safety instrumented system (SIS) designed
- Pressure gauge
- Flow meter
- Emergency shutdown system (ESD)
- Temperature indicator
to prevent hazardous events?
Answer: C
Rationale: ESD systems automatically bring equipment to a safe state
when abnormal conditions occur.
- What is the main function of a centrifugal pump?
- To compress gas
- To move liquids using rotational energy
- To measure flow rate
- To heat fluids
Answer: B
Rationale: Centrifugal pumps convert rotational kinetic energy to
hydrodynamic energy to transport liquids.
- In a distillation column, what is the purpose of the reboiler?
- To condense overhead vapors
- To provide heat to generate vapor for separation
- To remove impurities
- To regulate column pressure
Answer: B 2 / 4
Rationale: The reboiler provides heat to the bottom of the column,
generating vapor that rises and separates components by boiling point.
- What is the primary hazard associated with handling compressed
- Electrical shock
- Rapid decompression and explosion
- Thermal burns
- Corrosion
gases?
Answer: B
Rationale: Compressed gases can release energy violently if containers
rupture or valves fail.
- What type of valve is typically used for throttling applications?
- Gate valve
- Ball valve
- Globe valve
- Check valve
Answer: C
Rationale: Globe valves provide precise flow control and are ideal for
throttling.
- Which gas is commonly monitored in process plants due to toxicity
- Oxygen 3 / 4
and flammability?
- Hydrogen sulfide (H2S)
- Nitrogen
- Carbon dioxide
Answer: B
Rationale: H2S is highly toxic and flammable, requiring continuous
monitoring for safety.
- What is the function of a flare system in a process plant?
- To produce heat
- To increase process pressure
- To safely burn off excess hydrocarbons
- To compress gases
Answer: C
Rationale: Flares safely dispose of waste gases to prevent pressure
buildup and reduce environmental hazards.
- Which of the following is a common cause of pump cavitation?
- Excessive flow
- Low fluid viscosity
- Low inlet pressure
- High discharge pressure
Answer: C
Rationale: Cavitation occurs when the pump inlet pressure drops
below the fluid vapor pressure, forming vapor bubbles.
- / 4