If a pump is rated at 50 GPM but only produces 30 GPM, what is the volumetric efficiency?

To determine the volumetric efficiency of a pump, you can use the formula:

Volumetric Efficiency = (Actual Flow Rate / Rated Flow Rate) × 100%

In this scenario, the pump is rated at 50 gallons per minute (GPM) but is only producing 30 GPM. Plugging these values into the formula results in:

Volumetric Efficiency = (30 GPM / 50 GPM) × 100% = 0.6 × 100% = 60%

This calculation demonstrates that the pump is producing 60% of its rated capacity, indicating that the correct answer is indeed 60%. This efficiency is a crucial measure of a pump's performance, reflecting how well it converts the input energy into actual flow. If a pump consistently produces less than its rated capacity, it may indicate mechanical issues or improper conditions affecting its efficiency.