What component prevents water from passing back to the suction side in a pump system?

The component that effectively prevents water from passing back to the suction side in a pump system is valves. Valves, specifically check valves, are designed to allow fluid to flow in one direction only, ensuring that when the pump is off or if the pressure on the discharge side drops, water does not flow back into the suction line. This is crucial for maintaining system pressure and ensuring the pump can operate effectively.

While wear rings, seals, and filters all play important roles in pump operation, they do not specifically serve the function of preventing backflow. Wear rings are intended to reduce the leakage gap between the impeller and the pump casing, seals prevent fluid from leaking out of the pump, and filters serve to remove particles from the water, ensuring the pump operates efficiently. But when it comes to stopping backflow, valves are the essential component in maintaining the integrity of the pump system.