What effect does increased viscosity of the fluid have on pump efficiency?

The increased viscosity of a fluid typically decreases pump efficiency due to the greater resistance the fluid presents to flow. Viscosity refers to the thickness or stickiness of a liquid, which affects how easily it can be moved through a system.

When the viscosity is higher, more energy is required for the pump to overcome the internal friction and move the fluid. This results in a reduction in the overall efficiency of the pump because more energy is consumed to produce the same amount of flow compared to a fluid with lower viscosity. Additionally, a more viscous fluid can lead to increased wear and tear on the pump components, as they must work harder to move the thicker fluid.

Ultimately, the impact of increased viscosity is a decline in the pump's hydraulic performance and effectiveness, which directly correlates with lowered efficiency.