The Suction Diffuser Plus is an angle pattern, straightening fitting that enables a pumping system to function at optimal performance parameters. It conditions the flow into the pump suction to ensure the highest possible pump efficiency retention.
Flow Cone
The Suction Diffuser Plus includes Bell & Gossett’s patented Flow Cone, designed to eliminate the recirculation zones that develop in most other suction diffusers. These recirculation zones can increase pressure drop across the suction diffuser and create a high degree of variance in the velocity profile as the flow enters the pump suction. Instead, B&G’s Flow Cone directs the flow completely out of the suction diffuser and into the pump suction, providing a more uniform velocity profile that reduces uneven stress on the pump impeller and shaft.
A velocity vector analysis of current suction diffuser designs showed a significant recirculation zone in the area opposite the pump suction. This recirculation zone inhibited the complete flow of fluid into the pump suction, creating a high degree of variance in the velocity profile of the flow as it enters the pump. It also resulted in a higher pressure drop through the suction diffuser.
Bell & Gossett’s Flow Cone removes the conditions that develop a recirculation zone. As a result, there is less variance at the pump and less stress on the pump impeller and shaft. The improved fluid velocity profile and reduced stress allow the pump to retain more intrinsic efficiency, extend its life, and lower energy costs. The Suction Diffuser Plus provides as much as 2% efficiency retention over previous suction diffuser designs and 5% efficiency retention over competitors’ suction diffusers.
Key Features and Benefits of Suction Diffuser Plus
- Patented Flow Cone eliminates recirculation zones, directing flow toward the pump, improving flow conditioning, and maximizing pump efficiency retention
- Space-saving elbow design facilitates a close transition between return piping and the pump suction, eliminating the need for straight lengths of pipe and separate long radius elbows or reducing elbows
- Full-length straightening vanes assure a uniform flow pattern for the pump inlet
- Large diameter orifice cylinder prevents debris from entering pump suction while maintaining a low-pressure drop
- Fine mesh throwaway start-up strainer assures a cleaner, more trouble-free system
- Optional pressure/temperature ports permit system condition checks and verification of start-up strainer presence
- Completely removable internals allow for fast and easy maintenance
- Carbon steel or stainless steel internals
- Sizes from 2" x 1-1/2" to 10" x 10"
- Easy retrofit with standard installation dimensions compared to previous B&G designs
- Easily removable end cap with a reusable o-ring
- Plug/blowdown connection permits routine maintenance
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