Chugger Pump Cavitating

Anyone have ideas regarding what causes a chugger pump to cavitate? Doesn't happen when I spark or mash in with pure water. Does happen when I recirculate my mash. I do everything I can to remove air from the line, but that sucker still cavitates when recirculating. Can it be from a compacted grain bed? Any ideas? These things are a PITA when they don't cooperate.

 

I sounds like your pulling air from somewhere. There's probably more resistance while your running the system, which will make the air leak more pronounced.

 

Is there anything I can do about that?

 

Just look for leaks, Tighten clamps and make sure threaded fittings have enough teflon tape on them. Don't just tighten hose clamps with a screw driver. Use a small box wrench.