Liquid handling in industrial processes commonly involves the provision of a pump to move the fluid in the desired manner. Industrial pumps operate best and longest when they are provided with inlet conditions within a range for which the pump is designed. Two conditions prevalent among many pumps are low levels of particulate matter greater than a tolerable size and minimized turbulence at the pump inlet. Piping and specialties approaching the pump inlet should be arranged to provide these conditions to promote low vibration, energy savings, and a long service life.
An effective way to provide pump protection, save installation space, and reduce the probable demands for maintenance and service over the machine’s expected operating life is to specify and install a suction diffuser at the pump inlet. There are numerous advantages to this approach.
- The unit is mounted directly to the inlet side of the pump, saving space and additional connection points.
- An integral strainer prevents unwanted materials from entering the pump inlet.
- Straightening vanes on the outlet side of the suction diffuser reduce turbulence in the flow entering the pump.
- Provision of a suction diffuser reduces the total parts count and connection points (joints) approaching the pump inlet. A single cast unit takes the place of a strainer, reducing elbow, and entrance pipe. Reduced installation time and cost are achieved using the integral design of the suction diffuser.
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| Suction Diffuser shown installed on pump inlet. Courtesy Titan Flow Control, Inc. |
A suction diffuser may not be the most exciting specialty you ever install, but the benefits of its use warrant your attention. It’s one of those simple product ideas that contributes to a good pump installation you can confidently sign off on. You can find out more by reaching out to a product expert and discussing your potential application.