In the context of pumps, what does the term "cavitation" refer to?

Cavitation refers to the formation of vapor bubbles in a liquid, which occurs when the pressure in the liquid drops below its vapor pressure. This phenomenon typically happens within a pump when it is operating under conditions that allow the pressure to decrease significantly, often due to high fluid velocities or restricted flow conditions. The vapor bubbles can collapse violently when they reach higher pressure areas within the pump, leading to significant damage such as pitting on pump impellers, reduced efficiency, and increased wear over time. Understanding cavitation is crucial for millwrights and pump operators, as it helps ensure the optimal functioning and longevity of pump systems by avoiding conditions that might lead to this destructive process.