Cavitation involves vapor bubbles collapsing and generating what effect in the discharge line?

Cavitation involves vapor bubbles collapsing and generating what effect in the discharge line?

• A. Tremendous force through the discharge line
• B. Mild heat generation
• C. Reduced vapor pressure
• D. Increased oil viscosity

Answer: (A)

Cavitation happens when local flow conditions drive the liquid pressure below its vapor pressure, forming bubbles. When conditions rise again, those bubbles collapse with great energy, sending a sharp pressure pulse through the fluid. That rapid, high-energy collapse translates into a tremendous force transmitted along the discharge line. It’s this strong mechanical impulse, not heat or viscosity changes, that characterizes the discharge-line effect of cavitation. The other options describe either the cause (reduced vapor pressure) or effects that aren’t the primary impact in the line (mild heat, increased oil viscosity).

Cavitation happens when local flow conditions drive the liquid pressure below its vapor pressure, forming bubbles. When conditions rise again, those bubbles collapse with great energy, sending a sharp pressure pulse through the fluid. That rapid, high-energy collapse translates into a tremendous force transmitted along the discharge line. It’s this strong mechanical impulse, not heat or viscosity changes, that characterizes the discharge-line effect of cavitation. The other options describe either the cause (reduced vapor pressure) or effects that aren’t the primary impact in the line (mild heat, increased oil viscosity).