Head lift when referring to pumps is the maximum vertical distance that the pump can lift a liquid.
The head lift of pumps is a crucial factor in determining the pump's capability.
Head lift also refers to internal combustion engines.
In internal combustion engines the head lift is a phenomenon where the cylinder head, or specific areas of the head, lifts away from the engine block due to excessive cylinder pressure during the combustion of the engine.
Head lift in internal combustion engines is mainly caused by excessive cylinder pressure, which can also result from detonation, "also called knock", pre-ignition, vacuum leaks or even improper fuel/air mixture.
In severe cases the head lift in an internal combustion engine can damage the head gasket and cause combustion gasses to leak into the engines cooling system, which can lead to coolant leaks and overheating of the engine.
Head lift in pumps which is the maximum vertical distance the pump can lift a liquid is also known as total head.
The pump's output decreases as the head lift of the pump increases, and factors like hose length and size and the elevation difference between the water source and the discharge location also affect the pump's performance.
It's important to understand head lift which is crucial for selecting the appropriate pump for a specific application, especially when you're pumping liquids at higher altitudes or vertically.