What can cavitation in a centrifugal pump result in?

Cavitation in a centrifugal pump is a phenomenon that occurs when the local pressure in the pump falls below the vapor pressure of the liquid being pumped. This phenomenon can lead to the formation and subsequent collapse of vapor bubbles within the pump.

When cavitation occurs, it primarily results in pitting or erosion of the impeller surfaces due to the high-energy collapse of the vapor bubbles. This pitting can significantly damage the impeller over time, affecting its efficiency and lifespan. Therefore, one of the primary consequences of cavitation is indeed the pitting of the impeller, which showcases the physical harm it inflicts on the pump components.

While some options mention potential changes in performance or pressure, they do not accurately reflect the damaging effects associated with cavitation. The actual impact of cavitation typically leads to overall performance degradation rather than improvement, and it tends to increase the requirements for net positive suction head rather than reducing them. Understanding these aspects of cavitation is essential for effective pump operation and maintenance.