What specific type of damage can occur to a hydraulic pump if it is operated without proper suction pressure (cavitation), and why does this damage occur?

Operating a hydraulic pump without proper suction pressure leads to a specific type of damage called cavitation. Cavitation occurs when the pressure at the pump inlet drops below the vapor pressure of the hydraulic fluid. Vapor pressure is the pressure at which a liquid will boil and form vapor bubbles. When the pressure drops below this point, tiny vapor bubbles form within the fluid as it enters the pump. These bubbles are then carried into the high-pressure areas of the pump, where they implode (collapse violently). The implosion of these bubbles generates intense localized pressure waves that bombard the internal surfaces of the pump components, such as the vanes, pistons, and housing. This repeated bombardment causes material erosion, creating small pits and surface damage on the pump components. This erosion is similar to sandblasting but occurs at a microscopic level. Over time, cavitation damage leads to reduced pump efficiency, increased noise, and eventual pump failure. The reduced efficiency is due to the increased internal leakage caused by the eroded surfaces. The increased noise is caused by the imploding bubbles. For example, if the hydraulic fluid level in the reservoir is too low, the pump may not receive adequate suction pressure, leading to cavitation damage. Similarly, a clogged suction filter can restrict fluid flow to the pump, causing the pressure to drop and cavitation to occur. Therefore, maintaining proper suction pressure is essential for preventing cavitation and ensuring the long-term reliability of the hydraulic pump.