Would restricting the discharge or suction side of a centrifugal pump cause cavitation?

Cavitation in a centrifugal pump occurs when the pressure in the suction side falls below the vapor pressure of the fluid being pumped, leading to the formation of vapor bubbles. When the pressure subsequently increases again as the fluid travels through the pump, these bubbles collapse violently, which can damage the pump and significantly reduce its efficiency.

Restricting the suction side of the pump directly affects the inlet conditions. It increases the likelihood of a pressure drop, as the pump may not be able to pull the required volume of fluid at the same flow rate. This drop can lead to conditions where the pressure falls below the vapor pressure of the fluid, thereby initiating cavitation.

While restricting the discharge side can potentially affect pump operation, it is primarily the restriction on the suction side that poses a direct risk of cavitation, as it is the entry point where pressure is critical for proper fluid movement and the prevention of vapor formation.