As the suction specific speed of centrifugal pump increases, the required NPSH will also increase

causing cavitational problems in the pump.

Refer fig 31 in page no. 2.221 of pump handbook by Igor J Karassik. This graph indicates how the
cavitational problem is caused due to the increased suction specific speed of the pump.

Specific speed of the pump is N
s
= N Q / H
3/4
Suction specific speed of the pump is S = N Q / h
sv
3/4

H = Total pump head
h
sv
= Available NPSH
N = Speed of pump
Q = Flow of pump

Calculate both N
s
& S.

Now find out the value of cavitation parameter = ( h
sv
/ H )

Find the point of intersection of N
s
& S in the graph depicted in fig 31.

If the cavitation parameter () is above this point of intersection in the graph, the pump is
not prone to cavitational problem.

If is below the point of intersection, the pump is in danger zone.