What is negative suction in a pump?
What is negative suction in a pump? Negative suction in a pump refers to the scenario where the pump is drawing liquid up from below its centerline. We measure the space between the pump's centre and the liquid's surface in "head feet." It can be a negative value (below the pump) or a positive value (above the pump). In simpler terms, a negative suction head occurs when the surface of the fluid is below the level of the pumping unit. This is also referred to as a suction lift. The significance of negative suction in a pump lies in its impact on the pump's operation and efficiency. If not properly managed, negative suction can lead to issues such as cavitation, which is a common cause of pump failure. Cavitation occurs when there are changes in pressure within the pump, leading to the formation of vapour bubbles that can cause damage when they collapse. Therefore, understanding and managing negative suction is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and long...