Where does cavitation occur on a pump?

Cavitation in a pump is a phenomenon that occurs when the pressure in a liquid falls below its vapor pressure, leading to the formation of vapor bubbles. These bubbles can cause significant damage to the pump components when they collapse.

The correct answer pertains to the specific area within the pump where pressure variations can lead to cavitation. Cavitation typically occurs in regions of low pressure, and in a centrifugal pump, this is often observed at the impeller. However, the section side refers to areas where the fluid is moving away from high pressure toward lower pressure, where it can be particularly susceptible to the cavitation phenomenon.

Understanding the location of cavitation is crucial for maintaining pump efficiency and longevity. If cavitation occurs on the section side, it could lead to performance problems and potential damage. The other locations, such as the pump inlet, impeller hub, and volute, are less commonly associated with the onset of cavitation under normal operating conditions.