Exam Question
(a) What causes cavitation in a Centrifugal pump operation? (6)
(b) If the Engine room Bilge pump not taking suction, explore the probable reasons? (6)
(c) Why is a centrifugal pump started with its discharge valve shut? (4)
Class 4 (4th Engineer)
MEP
📅 Oct 2025
Reference Answer
### (a) Causes of Cavitation in a Centrifugal Pump Operation (6 Marks)
**1. Definition of Cavitation:**
Cavitation is a two-stage phenomenon that occurs in pumps and hydraulic machinery.
* **Stage 1: Bubble Formation:** It begins with the formation of vapor-filled cavities or bubbles within a liquid when the local static pressure drops below the liquid's vapor pressure at the operating temperature.
**1. Definition of Cavitation:**
Cavitation is a two-stage phenomenon that occurs in pumps and hydraulic machinery.
* **Stage 1: Bubble Formation:** It begins with the formation of vapor-filled cavities or bubbles within a liquid when the local static pressure drops below the liquid's vapor pressure at the operating temperature.
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