What happens to the impellers if low flow and high temperatures persist in a pump?

When low flow conditions and high temperatures persist in a pump, one of the potential consequences is that the impellers can come loose on the shaft. This situation can occur due to thermal expansion and varying forces acting on the components. The combination of insufficient flow prevents adequate cooling and lubrication, which can lead to increased wear and damage to the impeller assembly. Over time, the heat can cause thermal expansion in the materials, which may affect the integrity of the connection between the impeller and shaft, resulting in the impeller loosening from its position.

Other outcomes, such as improved efficiency or improved seal integrity, are unlikely under these conditions. In fact, the opposite may occur; the efficiency of the pump may decrease due to cavitation or improper flow dynamics, and seals may begin to fail due to overheating and inadequate lubrication. Likewise, stabilization of the impeller within the housing does not typically occur when faced with persistent low flow and high temperature, as these conditions generally lead to further instability and equipment failure. Thus, the risk of the impeller becoming loose is a significant concern when operating under low flow and high temperature situations.