What do the bowls of a vertical pump add to the system?

The bowls of a vertical pump are fundamental components that contribute to the hydraulic performance of the pump, specifically in terms of generating pressure. When liquid enters the pump, the bowls help to increase the kinetic energy of the fluid and then convert that energy into pressure energy. This conversion is essential for overcoming the resistance in the piping system and ensuring that the fluid can be delivered to the desired elevation or distance.

The pressure generated by the bowls is crucial for maintaining the flow rate and ensuring that the system operates efficiently. Without the pressure that the bowls provide, the fluid would not be pushed through the system effectively, which could lead to insufficient flow rate and inadequate service delivery.

In contrast, the other options do not capture the primary function of the bowls in a vertical pump. While velocity is influenced by the pump's design, the main output of the bowls is pressure. Friction within the system can affect performance but is not directly added by the bowls themselves. Volume is a measure of the amount of fluid but is not a direct result of the bowls' function; rather, it is a characteristic of the flow. Therefore, the essence of a vertical pump’s bowl design is its ability to generate pressure to ensure fluid moves effectively through the system.