Feed Pumps in Steam Systems - Suction Lift Head vs. Temperature

Cavitation of impellers increases with water temperatures. This tool helps determine safe suction lift and pressure head limits based on feeding water temperature to avoid cavitation in feed pumps.

Temperature (°C)Temperature (°F)Max Suction Lift (m)Max Suction Lift (ft)Min Pressure Head (m)Min Pressure Head (ft)
55130310
6515027
771700.62
801750000
871901.55
952003.510
992104.515
100212517

Important Information

Cavitation Risk: Cavitation of impellers increases with water temperatures.

Temperature Threshold: For water with temperature above 80°C (175°F), it is necessary to use a positive pressure head with the pump located at an elevation below the water or condensate receiver.

Common Operating Conditions: In steam distribution systems, open vented condensate receivers typically operate with temperatures close to 100°C (212°F), especially in systems where:

  • Most of the steam consumed is returned as hot condensate
  • Make-up water is heated to reduce dissolved air content

Conversion: 1 ft (foot) = 0.3048 m