What occurs when a centrifugal pump is started without being primed?

When a centrifugal pump is started without being adequately primed, the air inside the pump can lead to a range of operational issues. Priming is critical because centrifugal pumps rely on fluid to create the necessary suction to lift and move water or other liquids. Without priming, the pump will not have a sufficient liquid column, resulting in air being trapped in the pump casing.

The air can lead to a lack of proper sealing within the pump. As the pump operates, the absence of liquid can cause excessive friction between components, leading to overheating. The components may not function as intended, and this overheating can cause damage to seals and bearings, ultimately resulting in failure. Therefore, the scenario described highlights the importance of ensuring that a centrifugal pump is fully primed before starting it to avoid operational issues and ensure reliable performance.