Analysis of the influence of vibration phenomena in pump systems on electrical energy consumption and operational efficiency

Despite the long-standing recognition of vibration phenomena as a critical factor affecting both mechanical reliability and energy performance, yet their influence on electrical energy consumption remains insufficiently quantified. Excessive vibration, originating from rotor imbalance, shaft misalignment, bearing wear, and hydraulic instabilities, can result not only in accelerated component degradation but also in significant increases in energy demand and reductions in hydraulic efficiency. Understanding the quantitative relationship between vibration intensity and pump energy performance is therefore essential for both predictive maintenance strategies and energy efficiency improvements in pumping systems. This paper presents an experimental investigation of the effect of vibration on the electrical energy consumption and operational efficiency of centrifugal pumps. Five industrial pump types, with rated powers ranging from 15 to 75 kW and capacities from 100 to 320 m 3 /h, were tested under controlled conditions. Measurements were carried out using UT310A vibration testers, an ultrasonic flow meter, and a Fluke 1777 Power Quality Analyzer. Vibration signals, volumetric flow rates, pressure heads, and three-phase electrical parameters were simultaneously recorded under partial load, nominal load, and overload conditions. Hydraulic power and efficiency were then calculated, while statistical analyses-including correlation and regression models-were applied to determine the relationship between vibration intensity and electrical performance. The results revealed a strong positive correlation between increasing vibration levels and higher electrical energy demand. In particular, RMS vibration acceleration was found to be a reliable predictor of additional energy losses, while efficiency was observed to decrease as vibration intensity increased. These findings not only confirm the detrimental effect of mechanical instability on energy consumption but also provide a methodological framework for integrating vibration monitoring into energy management practices. By bridging the gap between mechanical diagnostics and energy performance analysis, the study contributes new insights that can support the development of predictive maintenance systems, improve pump reliability, and promote more sustainable operation of pumping stations.