Discharge cavitation occurs when the pump discharge pressure is extremely high or when the discharge flow is restricted and cannot leave the pump. Thermal Engineering
Discharge Cavitation
Discharge cavitation occurs when the pump discharge pressure is extremely high or when the discharge flow is restricted and cannot leave the pump (e.g. caused by closed outlet valve). An extremely high discharge pressure results in the majority of the pumped fluid circulating inside the pump.
This type of cavitation originates from two sources. First, this internal circulation (from high-pressure zones into low-pressure zones) is forced through the clearance between the impeller and the pump housing at high velocity resulting in the formation of a low pressure region (as a result of Bernoulli’s principle) in which cavitation can occur. Second, the liquid is circulating inside the volute of the pump and it rapidly overheats.
In both cases, cavitation have similar consequences. The implosion of bubbles trigger intense shockwaves, causing premature wear of the impeller tips and pump housing. In extreme case, discharge cavitation can cause the impeller shaft to break.
Typical causes of discharge cavitation:
Pump is running too far left on the pump curve
Blockage in the pipe on discharge side
Clogged filters or strainers
Inappropriate piping design
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See also:
Cavitation
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