Which is better and why? - Two Pump Configurations

[eng_taha_a]

which is better and why? -- Two Pump Configurations

hi,
i'm new engineer in automation company and my boss gave me the problem you see and gave my 5 days to answer it .
for me i think that situation A is better than B because the fluid is nearby the pump inlet although i think the elbow will make some turbulence at the pump inlet .

 

[.Scott]

I agree. I'd take proximity over possible turbulence any day. If the pump begins to cavitate, that extra length of pipe will only make matters worse. Also, if the pump requires priming, it'll be easier with the shorter length.