This tool assesses the available energy of a fluid at the suction side of a pump relative to the fluid’s vapor pressure. It determines whether the pump installation provides sufficient pressure to avoid cavitation, a phenomenon that can severely damage pump components and reduce efficiency. For instance, an online utility, using factors like altitude, fluid type, temperature, and system geometry, computes a value to be compared with a pump’s minimum requirement.
Accurate determination of this value is crucial for preventing pump failure and ensuring reliable operation. Undersizing can lead to costly repairs and downtime, whereas oversizing can result in unnecessary expense and complexity. Historically, manual calculations were prone to error, making the automated tool a significant improvement. Early adopters in the process industries witnessed substantial gains in operational effectiveness.