🔍 Key Concepts

• Hydraulic pump cavitation – what it is and what conditions cause it • Relationship between suction side conditions (inlet supply) and pump overheating • Effect of oil level in the reservoir/sump on pump suction and formation of vapor bubbles

💭 Think About

• Think about what cavitation actually means inside a hydraulic pump. What is happening to the fluid at the pump inlet when cavitation occurs? • Which choice would most likely allow air or vapor bubbles to form at the suction side of the pump and then collapse under pressure, causing heating and damage? • Look for the option that directly affects the pump’s ability to get a solid, bubble‑free supply of hydraulic fluid at its inlet.

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify which answer choices affect suction pressure / fluid supply to the pump rather than just electrical load or seal conditions. • Ask yourself: which condition could cause the pump to draw in air or form vapor bubbles on the inlet side? • Eliminate any choice that would not realistically reduce available fluid at the pump suction or create vapor pockets in the fluid.