What is the maximum theoretical lift of a centrifugal pump used as a suction pump?

In the context of centrifugal pumps, the maximum theoretical lift, also known as the maximum suction lift, is limited primarily by atmospheric pressure and the specific gravity of the fluid being pumped. For water, which has a specific gravity of 1, the maximum theoretical lift is around 33.9 feet at sea level under standard atmospheric conditions. This corresponds to the value near 34 feet.

This limit arises because a centrifugal pump relies on creating a difference in pressure to lift the fluid. As pressure decreases in the suction line, the atmospheric pressure pushes the fluid up into the pump. However, due to factors like vapor pressure of the fluid and friction losses in the suction line, the effective suction lift will be less than this theoretical maximum in practical applications.

Therefore, the maximum theoretical lift of 34 feet reflects the ideal conditions for a centrifugal pump working with water at sea level without additional losses.