What is a common cause for intermittent suction loss in a centrifugal pump?

A common cause for intermittent suction loss in a centrifugal pump is the presence of air or gas in the liquid being pumped. When air enters the pump system, it can disrupt the flow of the liquid and create conditions where the pump is unable to maintain a consistent suction pressure. This can lead to cavitation, where vapor bubbles form and collapse, further exacerbating the problem of suction loss.

The presence of air or gas reduces the effective head being generated by the pump, making it difficult for the pump to draw fluid consistently. This is particularly problematic in applications where the pump is designed to handle liquids and is not suited to compressible fluids like gases. Therefore, ensuring that the liquid being pumped is free from air and gas is crucial for maintaining optimal pump performance and preventing suction issues.

In contrast, while worn pump seals, excessive fluid viscosity, and improper pump alignment can also influence pump performance, they are less directly related to the specific issue of intermittent suction loss compared to the introduction of air or gas into the system.