Chemical Engineering Basics - Engineering

Q1:

Pick out the wrong statement. If the net positive suction head (NPSH) requirement of a pump is not satisfied, then

A it will deliver low discharge of liquid.

B its efficiency will not be affected.

C it will not develop sufficient head to raise water.

D it will be cavitated.

ANS:B - its efficiency will not be affected.

The wrong statement is: "its efficiency will not be affected." In reality, if the net positive suction head (NPSH) requirement of a pump is not satisfied, it can significantly affect the pump's efficiency. When the NPSH requirement is not met, the pump may experience cavitation, which can lead to several adverse effects on pump performance, including reduced efficiency. Cavitation occurs when the pressure of the liquid drops below its vapor pressure, causing the formation of vapor bubbles in the pump. These vapor bubbles can collapse violently when they enter regions of higher pressure, causing damage to pump components and reducing efficiency. Cavitation can also lead to increased noise, vibration, and erosion of pump parts. Therefore, the statement "its efficiency will not be affected" is incorrect. When the NPSH requirement is not satisfied and cavitation occurs, the efficiency of the pump is typically reduced.