Question 273General Subjects - Assistant Engineer

The correct answer is C) an asbestos gasket. The illustration GS-0012 is related to the design and construction of a centrifugal pump, which is a common piece of equipment used on ships. To maintain an efficient seal between the suction cover and the volute (the spiral-shaped pump casing), an asbestos gasket is typically used. Asbestos was a common material for gaskets in the past due to its heat-resistant and sealing properties. This type of gasket would compress and deform to fill any gaps or irregularities between the two pump components, creating a tight seal. The other options are incorrect because they do not provide the same level of sealing efficiency as an asbestos gasket. Good metal-to-metal contact (A) may not account for surface irregularities, sealant (B) may deteriorate over time, and compressing packing rings (D) is more commonly used for shaft seals rather than the suction cover-to-volute interface.