Feeding Pumps - the Suction Lift in Steam Systems

The danger of impeller cavitations increases with water temperature

To avoid cavitations in a feeding pump the suction lift and pressure head should not exceed the limits below:

For water with temperature above 80^oC (175^oF) its necessary with a positive pressure head - and the pump is located in an elevation below the water or condensate receiver.

In steam distribution systems its common with open vented condensate receivers with temperatures close to 100^oC (212^oF). This is true especially in systems where most of the steam consumed is returned as hot condensate, but also in systems where the make up water is heated to reduce the amount of air dissolved in the water.

• Recommended Suction Flow Velocity for Boiling Fluids - Recommended flow velocity for the pump suction side.
• Recommended Delivery Flow Velocity for Boiling Liquids - Flow velocity normally required on the delivery side of the pump in systems with boiling liquids.

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