Abstract: Read a 3-Ring Binder Pump Curve   Although computerized pump selection software now dominates the industry, the ability to read and interpret traditional three-ring binder pump curves remains a fundamental engineering skill. This presentation revisits the printed pump curve as originally published by manufacturers and widely used for decades, focusing on how flow, head, power, efficiency, and net positive suction head (NPSH) are conveyed graphically. The strengths and limitations of traditional curves are discussed in contrast to modern software-generated outputs.   The presentation opens with a historical overview of the US Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and its role in compiling and preserving a large archive of manufacturer pump curves for irrigation and water resource engineering. Although much of this data is now dated, it remains a valuable educational resource and a snapshot of historical pump design, testing practices, and performance expectations.   Core hydraulic principles are reviewed to establish a common technical foundation. Pump efficiency is defined as the ratio of hydraulic power delivered to the fluid to mechanical power input at the shaft, including discussion of the practical US-unit efficiency equation. The pump affinity rules are introduced to illustrate how changes in speed and impeller diameter affect flow, head, and power, along with their limitations when applied outside narrow operating ranges. Specific speed is presented as a dimensionless index that links pump geometry to performance and allows meaningful comparison between pump designs.   The central portion of the presentation focuses on interpreting the pump curve itself. Using a traditional three-ring binder curve, attendees are guided through manufacturer data presentation, curve annotations, and the Cartesian XY grid. Individual curve elements are examined in detail, including the flow axis, head axis, brake horsepower curves, NPSH required, and iso-efficiency "tree rings" surrounding the best efficiency point (BEP). Impeller diameter, trimming effects, and acceptable interpolation practices are also addressed.   Special consideration is given to vertical turbine pumps, including bowl size, number of stages, staging derates, and the effects of column losses and real-world installation conditions. Curve qualifiers such as fluid properties, temperature, turbidity, speed, impeller lateral, materials of construction, and test tolerances are reviewed to highlight the differences between laboratory test conditions and field operation. The importance of footnotes and fine print is emphasized, particularly with respect to design point efficiency guarantees and manufacturer disclaimers.   The presentation concludes with system resistance curves, parallel pump operation, and the graphical determination of operating points where pump and system curves intersect. Final remarks reinforce that while modern software tools are indispensable, a solid understanding of traditional pump curves remains essential for validation, troubleshooting, and sound engineering judgment.