What method can be employed to prevent cavitation from occurring in a water system?

To prevent cavitation in a water system, reducing suction lift is an effective method. Cavitation occurs when the pressure in a fluid drops below its vapor pressure, causing vapor bubbles to form and collapse violently, which can damage equipment such as pumps. By reducing suction lift, you effectively lower the pressure required to draw water into the pump. This minimizes the risk of the suction pressure dropping too low, particularly in situations of high velocity or inadequate supply.

When the suction lift is decreased, it allows for smoother operation and can provide more consistent pressure at the pump inlet, reducing the chances of falling below the vapor pressure and thus preventing cavitation.

While increasing pressure, installing a vent valve, and enlarging the pipe diameter might contribute to overall system functionality and help manage pressure issues, they do not directly address the immediate concerns associated with cavitation in the same targeted manner as reducing suction lift does.