When charging a supply line, what is the primary concern regarding air?

When charging a supply line, the primary concern regarding air is that it might cause cavitation. Cavitation occurs when there is a drop in pressure within the pump, which can happen if air is present in the liquid being pumped. This drop in pressure allows vapor bubbles to form in low-pressure areas, which can collapse violently when they move into areas of higher pressure. This collapse can lead to physical damage to the pump impeller and other internal components, resulting in reduced efficiency and potentially costly repairs.

Understanding the role that air plays in the hydraulic system is crucial for proper operation. While air may indeed influence pressures within the system, the more significant risk it poses is its potential to create cavitation conditions, causing operational issues that can compromise the pump's functionality. Therefore, ensuring that the supply line is free of air before charging is essential for maintaining optimal pump performance and system integrity.