What is a potential consequence of cavitation in pumps?

Cavitation in pumps occurs when the local pressure in a liquid falls below its vapor pressure, leading to the formation of vapor bubbles. When these bubbles collapse or implode, they create shock waves that can cause significant damage to the components of the pump. This damage can manifest as pitting, erosion, or even complete failure of critical parts like impellers, volutes, and bearings. As a result, understanding the potential consequences of cavitation is crucial for maintaining the integrity and performance of pumping systems. Preventing cavitation typically involves ensuring adequate suction pressure and proper pump selection for the application to avoid conditions that lead to this phenomenon.