What can cause cavitation in pumps?

Cavitation in pumps occurs primarily due to low pressure or excessive flow rates. When the pressure within the pump drops below the vapor pressure of the liquid being pumped, vapor bubbles form. These bubbles can collapse violently when they move to higher pressure areas, leading to shock waves that can damage the pump components.

Low pressure can result from factors like inadequate suction head, improper pump sizing, or restrictions in the pumping system. Excessive flow rates can also lead to cavitation, as they may create localized pressure drops within the pump, allowing vapor bubbles to form. Understanding these conditions is crucial because managing pressure and flow rates is essential for ensuring efficient pump operation and preventing cavitation.

The other choices pertain to different issues that may affect pump performance but do not specifically contribute to the phenomenon of cavitation as directly as low pressure or excessive flow rates do.