What phenomenon causes pump cavitation?

Cavitation in a pump is primarily caused when the pressure on a liquid drops below its vapor pressure. This phenomenon can occur when a pump is operating at flow rates that are too high, causing the pressure in certain areas of the pump to decrease. When the local pressure of the liquid reaches its vapor pressure, bubbles of vapor form. As these bubbles travel to areas of higher pressure within the pump, they collapse violently, leading to significant damage such as pitting and erosion of the pump components. This process can reduce the efficiency of the pump and ultimately lead to failure if not addressed. Understanding this mechanism is crucial for ensuring proper pump operation and maintenance.