Question 295General Subjects - QMED

The correct answer is A) cavitations. Pitting in the suction areas of a centrifugal pump bronze impeller is usually caused by cavitation. Cavitation occurs when the pressure in the suction side of the impeller drops below the vapor pressure of the liquid, causing the liquid to vaporize and form bubbles. These bubbles then collapse against the impeller surface, causing pitting and erosion of the metal. This is a common issue with centrifugal pumps and is often caused by factors such as excessive flow, high rotation speed, or improper pump selection. The other answer choices are incorrect because: B) Corrosion is a different mechanism that can also cause damage to pump components, but is not the primary cause of pitting in the suction areas. C) Electrolysis is a process involving the flow of electric current, which is not the main driver of pitting in this case. D) Abrasion can contribute to wear, but is not the primary cause of the specific pitting issue described in the question.