If a centrifugal pump is becoming plugged with debris, what change in current flow to the pump might an operator observe?

When a centrifugal pump becomes plugged with debris, it faces an increase in resistance to flow. This blockage forces the motor to work harder to maintain the required pump output, which usually leads to an increase in power demand. However, if the pump cannot overcome the blockage effectively, it may result in a condition known as "cavitation" or simply a stall in flow conditions.

In such cases, the motor may draw less current if it cannot maintain its operational speed due to the impeded flow, suggesting that the current flow may be lower than normal. This phenomenon occurs because the motor is not able to achieve its designed performance due to hydraulic issues.

Understanding this relationship between a pump's operation and electrical characteristics is essential for operators. Monitoring current flow provides insights into the pump's performance and can inform necessary maintenance actions, such as clearing obstructions or making adjustments to restore normal functioning levels.