What can cause pump cavitation?

Pump cavitation occurs when the pressure in the pump drops below the vapor pressure of the liquid being pumped, leading to the formation of vapor bubbles. When these bubbles collapse, they can cause significant wear and damage to the pump components.

A clogged suction line is indeed a primary cause of pump cavitation. When the suction line is clogged, it restricts the flow of liquid to the pump, causing a drop in pressure at the pump inlet. As the pressure decreases, it can reach a point where it falls below the vapor pressure of the fluid, resulting in cavitation. This scenario creates an unstable flow condition that can severely impair the pump's performance and longevity.

In contrast, while high pressure in the discharge line can stress the pump, it typically does not lead to cavitation. Low fuel level pertains more to fuel pumps rather than water distribution systems. An increase in water temperature can reduce the liquid's density and may affect vapor pressure, but it is not a direct cause of pump cavitation when properly managed.