What automatic action does the MFP discharge valve perform upon a pump trip?

The MFP (Main Feed Pump) discharge valve is designed to ensure safe operation of the pump system by managing pressure effectively during a pump trip. When a pump trip occurs, the discharge valve shuts automatically. This action helps prevent backflow of water, minimizes the risk of damage to the pump and related systems, and maintains system integrity by isolating the pump from the high-pressure system to protect the components involved.

By shutting automatically, the valve ensures that there is no abrupt change in pressure that could cause hydraulic shock or damage. It's a critical safety feature that allows for controlled system operation and facilitates maintenance procedures when necessary.

The other options are not aligned with the standard operation of an MFP discharge valve. For instance, opening to release pressure could lead to system instability and is not typical behavior for a pump discharge valve during a trip; redirecting flow to standby systems is not a function performed directly by this valve; and signaling an alarm for manual intervention might be handled by other monitoring systems rather than the valve itself.