What is the effect of not priming a centrifugal pump before start-up?

When a centrifugal pump is not properly primed before start-up, it can lead to significant operational issues, the most critical being potential overheating and seal failure. Priming a pump involves filling it with the liquid to be pumped, which allows the pump to generate the necessary suction and maintain flow. Without this essential fluid, the pump may run dry, leading to increased friction within the mechanical components.

As the pump operates without the adequate lubrication and cooling provided by the fluid, the temperature of the pump can rise rapidly, resulting in overheating. This excessive heat can damage internal components, including bearings and seals. The seals, in particular, are designed to prevent leaks but can fail under heat stress, leading to more serious operational failures and the need for costly repairs or replacements. Therefore, proper priming is crucial to ensure the longevity and reliability of centrifugal pumps.