Question 419General Subjects - Assistant Engineer

The correct answer is A) cavitation. Cavitation is the primary cause of pitting in the suction areas of a centrifugal pump's bronze impeller. Cavitation occurs when the fluid pressure in certain areas of the impeller drops below the vapor pressure of the liquid, causing the formation of vapor bubbles. These bubbles then collapse against the impeller surface, leading to pitting and erosion of the material. This is a common issue with centrifugal pumps, especially when operating outside their optimal flow range. The other options are incorrect because abrasion, corrosion, and electrolysis are not the primary drivers of pitting in the suction areas of a centrifugal pump's bronze impeller. Abrasion may cause general wear, corrosion is more likely to occur in the discharge areas, and electrolysis is not a significant factor in this specific scenario.