🔍 Key Concepts

• Centrifugal pump operation and the difference between the suction side and discharge side • How air leaks on the suction side affect priming and cavitation • Effect of valve position and installation height on pump performance

💭 Think About

• Which option would most directly allow air to be drawn into the pump where it is trying to pull liquid, rather than push it? • Think about where a small leak will actually matter more: when the pump is trying to create suction, or when it’s already under discharge pressure? • Which conditions are commonly associated with loss of prime, cavitation, or reduced flow rate in pumps?

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify which side of the pump (suction vs discharge) is more sensitive to small leaks letting in air • Consider how entrained air in the liquid affects a pump’s ability to move fluid efficiently • Verify which options would normally not reduce efficiency in a properly designed and operated system