If your centrifugal pump was discharging properly and now it is not, what is likely the issue?

If your centrifugal pump was discharging properly and now it is not, what is likely the issue?

• A. Clogged impeller
• B. Insufficient power supply
• C. Air or vapor in liquid
• D. Worn out bearings

Answer: (C)

The correct answer is air or vapor in the liquid. In a centrifugal pump, the presence of air or vapor can significantly hinder its ability to discharge fluids effectively. This phenomenon occurs when air is introduced into the system or when the liquid being pumped reaches its vaporization point under pressure or temperature conditions, leading to cavitation. When air is present in the pumping system, it can create pockets of gas that prevent the pump from generating the necessary pressure to move the liquid. This results in a drop in flow rate and may cause the pump to lose its prime, making it unable to discharge fluid at the desired level. Additionally, vapor bubbles can disrupt the flow of liquid, further reducing efficiency and potentially causing damage to the impeller and other internal components. Understanding the causes of air entrapment is crucial for maintaining optimal pump performance, such as ensuring that suction lines are properly sealed, avoiding high temperature conditions, and making sure that the pump is adequately primed before operation.

The correct answer is air or vapor in the liquid. In a centrifugal pump, the presence of air or vapor can significantly hinder its ability to discharge fluids effectively. This phenomenon occurs when air is introduced into the system or when the liquid being pumped reaches its vaporization point under pressure or temperature conditions, leading to cavitation.

When air is present in the pumping system, it can create pockets of gas that prevent the pump from generating the necessary pressure to move the liquid. This results in a drop in flow rate and may cause the pump to lose its prime, making it unable to discharge fluid at the desired level. Additionally, vapor bubbles can disrupt the flow of liquid, further reducing efficiency and potentially causing damage to the impeller and other internal components.

Understanding the causes of air entrapment is crucial for maintaining optimal pump performance, such as ensuring that suction lines are properly sealed, avoiding high temperature conditions, and making sure that the pump is adequately primed before operation.