What is observed in the spectrum if the pumping system experiences cavitation?

When a pumping system experiences cavitation, the spectrum typically shows an increase in amplitude at the pump vane rate frequency, which correlates to the frequency at which the pump's vanes pass through the fluid. This increase occurs due to the violent collapse of vapor bubbles that form during cavitation, causing additional vibrations.

Additionally, cavitation often introduces turbulence and fluctuating pressures within the pump, which contributes to an elevated noise floor. The combination of these effects results in noticeable spikes at the vane rate frequency in the spectrum, indicating a direct link between cavitation and the vibrational characteristics seen in the data. This phenomenon can help diagnose issues in pumping systems, making it crucial for technicians to recognize these patterns when analyzing vibration data.

Understanding this aspect is vital for effective maintenance and troubleshooting of pumping systems, as ignoring cavitation can lead to further damage and regulatory compliance issues.