ECH 3103 FLUID MECHANICS

PUMP CAVITATION FOR LIQUID

Introduction
A pump is a device used to move gases and liquids. It moves the gases and liquids from lower pressure to higher pressure, and overcomes this difference in pressure by adding energy to the system. Cavitation means bubbles are forming while the liquid is being pumped. It occurs in liquids when the local pressure is reduced to the vapor pressure of the liquid.

Its effects on pump performance and pump parts

1. Reduction in capacity of pump
2. Decrease in head developed 3. Abnormal sound and vibrations 4. Damage to pump parts

What are the causes?

When liquid enters a pump, its velocity increases which cause a reduction in pressure within the pump. Bubbles are formed and entrained in the liquid if the liquid vaporises when the pressure falls too low. As they move to areas of higher pressure, these bubbles collapse violently, creating the noise and vibration from the pump.

How to avoid cavitation?

1. minimise the number of valves and bends in the suction line 2. use eccentric reducers, not concentric 3. ensure the straight side of the eccentric reducer is installed along the top of the suction line 4. suction length should be as short as possible 5. suction pipe should be at least the same diameter as the pump inlet connection 6. use long radius bends 7. increase the size of valves and pipework 8. do not allow air into the suction line 9. ensure adequate submergence over the foot valve 10. the submergence should be at least 5.3 times the suction diameter.

Alternative solutions
One solution may be to reduce the required net positive suction head by lowering the pump speed. However, this will also result in reduced output from the pump which may not suit your system.

Applications of cavitation
1. In industry, cavitation is often used to homogenize, or mix and break down suspended particles in a colloidal liquid compound, such as paint mixtures, or milk. 2. Cavitating water purification devices 3. In biomedical, it plays an important role for the destruction of kidney stones in shock wave lithotripsy.

Prepared by, Soh Sin Yee Phuan Ke Wei Siti Nadhirah Adnan Wan Norraizan Wan Nik

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