Question

causing a characteristic knocking noise. The consequences of cavitation in a hydraulic system can be serious. Cavitation causes metal erosion, which damages hydraulic components and contaminates the fluid. In extreme cases, cavitation can cause mechanical failure of system components. While cavitation can occur just about anywhere within a hydraulic circuit, it commonly occurs at the pump. A clogged inlet strainer or restricted intake line will cause the fluid in the intake line to vaporize. If the pump has an inlet strainer or filter, it is important for it not to become clogged. If a gate-type isolation valve is fitted to the intake line, it must be fully open. This type of isolation device is prone to vibrating closed. The intake line between the reservoir and pump should not be restricted. Flexible intake lines are prone to collapsing with age; therefore, replace old or suspect intake lines.

Two equal-sized electric generation power plants are built at the same location. Steam is condensed in each condenser by circulating water running from a cooling tower basin, through circulating water pumps and then back to the cooling tower. When both units became operational, it was found that one unit developed cavitation in the circulating water pumps while the other unit did not. Discuss possible causes for this situation and how corrections could be made to the situation.

Answer 1

Slight details about cavitation has already been given the paragraph above the question. So, it tells us what cavitation is and what can be possible cause and consequences of cavitation.

For the given situation, the pump having cavitation must have undergone following conditions......

Please refer the image...