A centrifugal pump can lose capacity due to which of the following reasons?

A centrifugal pump can indeed lose capacity due to the wear of the impeller by grit. In wastewater applications, the presence of abrasive materials can lead to erosion and physical wear on the impeller blades over time. This wear diminishes the ability of the pump to generate the necessary pressure and flow, resulting in reduced capacity. The impeller is critical for creating the centrifugal force that moves the fluid through the pump; therefore, if it becomes worn down, its efficiency is significantly compromised.

Additionally, this type of wear often leads to an increase in clearances within the pump, reducing the hydraulic efficiency further. It's essential for operators to regularly inspect the pump components and maintain them to prevent such wear and ensure optimal performance. Understanding this relationship between impeller condition and pump capacity is crucial for effective wastewater management and maintaining system reliability.