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Bathtup-type vortex
2

Bathtup-type vortex

Bathtup-type vortex

(OP)
If you have a pipe drawing fluid from a reservoir, there is a possibility that a vortex can form, allowing air to enter the pipe, even though the pipe entrance is fully below the fluid surface.  Example:  A bathtub draining.  Question:  Does anyone have any information on minimum depth or maximum flow rates required to avoid this?

I'm familiar with anti-vortex plates and diffusers intended to prevent this, but have never seen any actual test or theoretical data to show that they would work.

Thanks!

RE: Bathtup-type vortex

JStephen,

Goulds Pump Manual has a section on suction pipe design. The following link should take you to an excerpt of the manual that illustrates recommended pipe submergence.

http://www.gouldspumps.com/pag_0006.html

Cheers,
CanuckMiner

RE: Bathtup-type vortex

In case of pumping water, you can use the following equation for the minimum submergence.

S = D+[(0.574Q)/D1.5]

Where S is the submergence in inches
D is suction pipe diameter in inches
and Q is flowrate in USGPM.

RE: Bathtup-type vortex

(OP)
Canuck, that looks like some very useful information.  Thanks.

Quark, do you have a reference or source for that equation?  Thanks.

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