What limitations does a pump that must draw its suction from below face?

A pump that draws its suction from below must contend with atmospheric pressure and water temperature limits for effective operation.

Atmospheric pressure acts as the maximum pressure available to push water into the pump from the suction line. If the suction lift exceeds this pressure, the pump may lose prime or fail to operate, as it relies on atmospheric pressure to assist in drawing the fluid.

Water temperature also plays a crucial role because as temperature increases, water's density and viscosity change, which may affect the pump's ability to function properly. Higher temperatures can result in lower density, leading to reduced suction lift, while greater viscosity can impede fluid flow, creating additional challenges for the pump.

This combination of atmospheric pressure and temperature considerations is fundamental to ensuring that the pump operates within its designed parameters. Therefore, understanding these limitations is essential for selecting a pump and using it effectively in various applications.