What is the practical suction lift range for a centrifugal pump?

The practical suction lift range for a centrifugal pump is commonly understood to be around 15-25 feet. This is due to the fact that centrifugal pumps rely on the creation of a vacuum to lift water, and atmospheric pressure is the driving force that pushes the water into the pump.

As the suction lift increases, the efficiency of the pump typically decreases because of the effects of vapor pressure and the potential for cavitation. If the suction lift exceeds the practical range, the pump may not operate effectively, leading to insufficient flow or pump damage.

In practical applications, maintaining a suction lift within this range helps ensure that the centrifugal pump functions efficiently and effectively pulls water without severe performance issues. This knowledge is essential for operators to optimize the performance of their pumping systems and prevent operational failures.