Cavitation Detection in Variable Speed Pump by Analyzing the Acoustic and Vibration Spectrums

Abstract

Cavitation in pumps must be detected and prevented. The present work is an attempt to use the simultaneous measurements of vibration and sound for variable speed pump to detect cavitation. It is an attempt to declare the relationship between the vibration and sound for the same discharge of 780 L/h and NPSH A of 0.754 at variable speeds of 1476 rpm, 1644 rpm, 1932 rpm, 2190 rpm, 2466 rpm, and 2682 rpm. Results showed that: the occurrence of cavitation depends on the rotational speed, and the sound signals in both no cavitation and cavitation conditions appear in random manner. While, surveying the vibration and sound spectrums at the second, third, and fourth blade passing frequencies reveals no indications or phenomenon associated with the cavitation at variable speeds. It is recommended to survey the vibration spectra at the rotational and blade passing frequencies simultaneously as a detection unique method of cavitation.