What condition may cause cavitation for a centrifugal pump?

Cavitation in a centrifugal pump occurs when there is a drop in pressure at the pump's suction side, leading to the formation of vapor bubbles. When the pump operates at maximum lift capacity, it is often trying to draw fluid from a reservoir at a level significantly lower than the pump's impeller, which can cause a reduction in the absolute pressure of the liquid. If the pressure falls below the vapor pressure of the fluid, vapor bubbles form. As these bubbles pass through the impeller and enter regions of higher pressure, they collapse violently. This process can cause damage to the pump components and reduce its efficiency.

Understanding the conditions leading to cavitation is crucial for preventing damage and ensuring the effective operation of pumps. In contrast, if a pump operates below its rated capacity or if the water temperature is too high, these conditions relate more to the efficiency and performance degradation of the pump rather than directly inducing cavitation. Additionally, while air entering the suction line can lead to other performance issues, cavitation is specifically associated with the pressure conditions within the pump system.