ANSI-HI 9.8 - 1998 Pump Intake Design

ANSI/HI 9.
8-1998
American National Standard for
ANSI/HI 9.8-1998
Pump Intake
Design
9 Sylvan Way
Parsippany, New Jersey
07054-3802
www.pumps.org
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Copyright 2000 By Hydraulic Institute, All Rights Reserved.
ANSI/HI 9.8-1998
American National Standard for
Pump Intake Design
Sponsor
Hydraulic Institute
www.pumps.org
Approved November 17, 1998
American National Standards Institute, Inc.

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Published By
Hydraulic Institute
9 Sylvan Way, Parsippany, NJ 07054-3802
www.pumps.org
Copyright 1998 Hydraulic Institute

All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form,
in an electronic retrieval system or otherwise, without prior
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Printed in the United States of America

ISBN 1-880952-26-2
Contents
Page
Foreword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii
Pump Intake Design
9.8
Pump intake design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
9.8.1 Design objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

9.8.2 Intake structures for clear liquids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
9.8.3 Intake structures for solids-bearing liquids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
9.8.4 Pump suction piping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
9.8.5 Model tests of intake structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
9.8.6 Inlet bell design diameter (D) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
9.8.7 Required submergence for minimizing surface vortices . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
9.8.8 Glossary and nomenclature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Appendix A
Remedial Measures for Problem Intakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
A-1
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
A-2
Approach flow patterns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
A-2.1
Open vs. partitioned structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
A-3
Controlling cross-flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
A-4
Expanding concentrated flows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
A-4.1
Free-surface approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
A-4.2
Closed conduit approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
A-5
Pump inlet disturbances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
A-5.1
Free-surface vortices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
A-5.2
Sub-surface vortices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
A-5.3
Pre-swirl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
A-5.4
Velocities in pump bell throat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
A-6
Tanks suction inlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Appendix B
Sump Volume. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
B-1
Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
B-2
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
B-3
Minimum sump volume sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
B-4
Decreasing sump volume by pump alternation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Appendix C
Intake Basin Entrance Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
C-1 Variable speed pumps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

C-2 Constant speed pumping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
iii
C-2.1
Inlet pipe, trench-type wet wells. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
C-2.2
Storage in approach pipe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
C-3 Transition manhole, sewer to approach pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

C-4 Sluice gate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
C-5 Lining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
C-6 Design examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Appendix D
Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Appendix E
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Figures
9.8.1 Recommended intake structure layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
9.8.2 Filler wall details for proper bay width . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
9.8.3 Type 10 formed suction intake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
9.8.4A Wet pit duplex sump with pumps offset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
9.8.4B Wet pit duplex sump with pumps centerline. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
9.8.4C Dry pit/wet pit duplex sump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
9.8.5A Wet pit triplex sump, pumps in line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
9.8.5B Wet pit triplex sump, compact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
9.8.5C Dry pit/wet pit triplex sump. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
9.8.6 Trench-type wet well . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
9.8.7 Trench-type wet well with formed suction inlet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
9.8.8 Datum for calculation of submergence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
9.8.9 Definitions of V and D for calculation of submergence. . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
9.8.10 Open bottom can intakes (pumps less than 315 l/s [5000 gpm]) . . . . 12
9.8.11 Closed bottom can . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
9.8.12 Submersible vertical turbine pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
9.8.13 Open trench-type wet well . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
9.8.14 Open trench-type wet well for pumps sensitive to loss of prime. . . . . 16
9.8.15 Circular wet pit with sloping walls and minimized horizontal
floor area (submersible pumps shown for illustration) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
9.8.16 Circular wet pit with sloping walls and minimized horizontal
floor area (dry pit pumps) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
9.8.17 Confined wet wall design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
9.8.18 Common intakes for suction piping showing submergence
datum references . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
9.8.19 Recommended suction piping near pump, all pump types
(D = pipe diameter) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
9.8.20 Examples of suction pipe fittings near pump that require
approval of the pump manufacturer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
iv
9.8.21 Recommended suction piping for double suction pumps

with the elbow in the same plane as the impeller shaft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
9.8.22 Suction header design options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
9.8.23 Classification of free surface and sub-surface vortices . . . . . . . . . . . 26
9.8.24 Typical swirl meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
9.8.25A Recommended inlet bell design diameter (OD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
9.8.25B Recommended inlet bell design diameter (OD) (US units) . . . . . . . 31
9.8.26A Recommended minimum submergence to minimize free
surface vortices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
9.8.26B Recommended minimum submergence to minimize free
surface vortices (US units) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
A.1 Examples of approach flow conditions at intake structures and
the resulting effect on velocity, all pumps operating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
A.2 Examples of pump approach flow patterns for various
combinations of operating pumps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
A.3 Comparison of flow patterns in open and partitioned sumps . . . . . . . . . 45
A.4 Effect of trash rack design and location on velocity distribution
entering pump bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
A.5 Flow-guiding devices at entrance to individual pump bays . . . . . . . . . . . 46
A.6 Concentrated influent configuration, with and without flow
distribution devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
A.7 Baffling to improve flow pattern downstream from dual flow screen . . . . 47
A.8 Typical flow pattern through a dual flow screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
A.9 Improvements to approach flow without diverging sump walls . . . . . . . . 49
A.10 Elevation view of a curtain wall for minimizing surface vortices . . . . . . 49
A.11 Methods to reduce sub-surface vortices (examples AI) . . . . . . . . . . . 51
A.12 Anti-vortex devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
B.1 Operational sequences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
B.2 Pump and system head curves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Tables
Table 9.8.1 Recommended dimensions for Figures 9.8.1 and 9.8.2 . . . . . . . . 4
Table 9.8.2 Design sequence, rectangular intake structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Table 9.8.3 Acceptable velocity ranges for inlet bell diameter D
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Table C.1 Maximum flow in approach pipes with hydraulic jumpmetric units,
slope = 2%, Mannings n = 0.010. Sequent depth = 60% pipe diameter. After
wheeler (1995). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Table C.2 Maximum flow in approach pipes with hydraulic jumpUS customary
units, slope = 2%, Mannings n = 0.010. Sequent depth = 60% pipe diameter. After
Wheeler (1995). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
v
Foreword (Not part of Standard)

Purpose and aims of the Hydraulic Institute
The purpose and aims of the Institute are to promote the continued growth and
well-being of pump manufacturers and further the interests of the public in such
matters as are involved in manufacturing, engineering, distribution, safety, transportation and other problems of the industry, and to this end, among other things:
a) To develop and publish standards for pumps;
b) To collect and disseminate information of value to its members and to the
public;
c) To appear for its members before governmental departments and agencies
and other bodies in regard to matters affecting the industry;
d) To increase the amount and to improve the quality of pump service to the public;
e) To support educational and research activities;
f) To promote the business interests of its members but not to engage in business of the kind ordinarily carried on for profit or to perform particular services
for its members or individual persons as distinguished from activities to
improve the business conditions and lawful interests of all of its members.
Purpose of Standards
1) Hydraulic Institute Standards are adopted in the public interest and are
designed to help eliminate misunderstandings between the manufacturer,
the purchaser and/or the user and to assist the purchaser in selecting and
obtaining the proper product for a particular need.
2) Use of Hydraulic Institute Standards is completely voluntary. Existence of
Hydraulic Institute Standards does not in any respect preclude a member
from manufacturing or selling products not conforming to the Standards.
Definition of a Standard of the Hydraulic Institute

Quoting from Article XV, Standards, of the By-Laws of the Institute, Section B:
An Institute Standard defines the product, material, process or procedure with
reference to one or more of the following: nomenclature, composition, construction, dimensions, tolerances, safety, operating characteristics, performance, quality, rating, testing and service for which designed.
Comments from users

Comments from users of this Standard will be appreciated, to help the Hydraulic
Institute prepare even more useful future editions. Questions arising from the content of this Standard may be directed to the Hydraulic Institute. It will direct all
such questions to the appropriate technical committee for provision of a suitable
answer.
If a dispute arises regarding contents of an Institute publication or an answer provided by the Institute to a question such as indicated above, the point in question
shall be referred to the Executive Committee of the Hydraulic Institute, which then
shall act as a Board of Appeals.
vii
Revisions
The Standards of the Hydraulic Institute are subject to constant review, and revisions are undertaken whenever it is found necessary because of new developments and progress in the art. If no revisions are made for five years, the
standards are reaffirmed using the ANSI canvas procedure.
Over the past several decades, long-term performance results for many different
centrifugal and axial flow pumping facilities have become available. Based on
some less than satisfactory results, the industry has recognized a need for updating the standard approaches to designing pump intake structures and suction piping. In response to this evolving need, the Hydraulic Institute has improved and
expanded its recommendations for designing intake structures for centrifugal, vertical turbine, mixed-flow, and axial-flow pumps and added intake designs for solidsbearing liquids.
This standard is a result of the combined efforts of a balanced committee that was
formed to reflect the perspectives of sump designers, hydraulic researchers, pump
manufacturers, and end users. It replaces ANSI/HI 1.1-1.5-1994 Section 1.3.3.6
and ANSI/HI 2.1-2.5-1994 Section 2.3.5.
The intent of this current edition of the pump intake design standard is to provide
designers, owners and users of pumping facilities a foundation upon which to
develop functional and economical pumping facility designs. The material has
been prepared with the deliberate goals of both increasing understanding of the
subject and establishing firm design requirements.
Scope
This standard provides intake design recommendations for both suction pipes and
all types of wet pits. While specific intake design is beyond the scope of the pump
manufacturers responsibility, their comments may be helpful to the intake
designer.
Units of Measurement
Metric units of measurement are used; and corresponding US units appear in
brackets. Charts, graphs and sample calculations are also shown in both metric
and US units.
Since values given in metric units are not exact equivalents to values given in US
units, it is important that the selected units of measure to be applied be stated in
reference to this standard. If no such statement is provided, metric units shall govern.
Consensus
Consensus for this standard was achieved by use of the canvas method. The following organizations, recognized as having interest in the pump intake designs
were contacted prior to the approval of this revision of the standard. Inclusion in
this list does not necessarily imply that the organization concurred with the submittal of the proposed standard to ANSI.
Ahlstrom Pumps, LLC
Alden Research Laboratory, Inc.
Bechtel Corporation
Black & Veatch
Brown & Caldwell
Camp Dresser & McKee
CH2M Hill
Chas S. Lewis & Co., Inc.
Crane Pump & Systems
David Brown Union Pump Company
DeWante & Stowell
Dow Chemical
viii
Electric Power Research Institute

ENSR Consulting & Engineering
Equistar L.P.
Essco Pump
Fairbanks Morse Pump
Florida Power Corporation
Floway Pumps
Flowserve Corporation
Ingersoll-Dresser Pump
ITT A-C Pump
ITT Fluid Technology
ITT Goulds Pump
Iwaki Walchem Corp
J.P. Messina Pump and Hydraulics
Consultant
John Crane, Inc.
Johnston Pump Company
Lawrence Pumps, Inc.
M. W. Kellogg
Malcolm Pirnie, Inc.
Marine Machinery Association
Montana State University
Montgomery Watson
MWI
National Pump Company
PACO Pumps
Patterson Pump Company
Price Pump
Raytheon Engineers & Constructors
Robert Bein, William Frost & Assoc.
Sewage & Water Board of New Orleans
Skidmore
Solutia, Inc.
South Florida Water Management
District
Southern Company Services, Inc.
Sta-Rite Industries
Stone and Webster
Sulzer Binhham Pumps, Inc.
Summers Engineering, Inc.
Systecon, Inc.
Tennessee Valley Authority
US Bureau of Reclamation
Committee List
Although this standard was processed and approved for submittal to ANSI by the
canvas method, a working committee met many times to facilitate the development of this standard. At the time it was approved, the committee had the following members:
NAME
Jack Claxton, Chairman
Stefan Abelin, Vice Chair.
William Beekman
Thomas Demlow
Thomas Duncan
Peter Garvin
Herman Greutink
James Healy
George E. Hecker
Joseph Jackson
Garr Jones
Zan Kugler
COMPANY
Patterson Pump Company
ITT Flygt Corp.
Floway Pumps
ENSR Consulting & Engineering
Southern Company Services, Inc.
Bechtel Corporation
Johnston Pump Company
Stone and Webster
Alden Research Laboratory Inc.
Yeomans Chicago Corp.
Brown & Caldwell
South Florida Water Management
District
James Leech
US Army Corps of Engineers
Frederick Locher
Bechtel Corporation
Wilbur Norwood (Alternate) Yeomans Chicago Corp.
Robert Sanks
Montana State University
Gerald Schohl
Tennesse Valley Authority
Arnold Sdano
Fairbanks Morse Pump
G. Joseph Sullivan
Sewerage & Water Board of New
Orleans
Zbigniew Czarnota
ITT Flygt Corp.
(Alternate)
CATEGORY
Producer
Producer
Producer
General Interest
User
General Interest
Producer
General Interest
General Interest
Producer
General Interest
User
User
General Interest
Producer
General Interest
User
Producer
User
Producer
ix
Major Revisions
Past Hydraulic Institute intake design standards have been based on the rated
flow rate of the pump, while several other pump intake guidelines are based on
dimensions determined from multiples of the inlet bell diameter.
Recognizing that a balance between these concepts may optimize the intake
design, this edition is based upon:
the pump intake bell outside diameter called design diameter or simply D
an acceptable average velocity range across D (see Table 9.8.3)
verification that the approach velocity does not exceed specified limits
submergence S of pump intakes as a function of Froude number FD and D
This edition consists of the standard, Section 9.8, Intake Design Standards, and
several appendices. These appendices are included as educational information
and are not part of the standard. Illustrations of Not Recommended designs
have been eliminated, as they are too numerous to document properly.
Other major changes introduced by this standard are given below under each subject heading.
Rectangular Intakes
The dimensioning for rectangular plan intakes has been changed from a flowbased design to one based on D, as determined by the inlet bell velocity. A partitioned intake design is recommended over an open intake design.
Reference sections (9.8.2.1 and 9.8.3.4)
Formed Suction Intakes

This standard introduces recommendations for the formed suction inlet.
Reference sections (9.8.2.2)
Circular Intakes
This standard introduces recommendations for the appropriate use of circular wet
wells for both clear and solids-bearing liquids, and it suggests specific configurations.
Trench-Type Intakes
This standard introduces geometry for trench-type wet wells for both clear and solidsbearing liquids.
Suction Tanks
Guidelines are provided for suction tank applications.
Reference section (9.8.2.5)
x
Barrel or Can and Submersible Vertical Turbine Intakes

Recommendations for barrel or can-type intakes and submersible vertical turbine
intakes designs are introduced.
Unconfined Intakes
Guidelines are provided for unconfined intake applications.
Solids-Bearing Liquids Applications

In past editions of this standard, discussions of solids-bearing liquids were limited
to advising designers to obtain specific recommendations from pump manufacturers. This standard provides recommendations for pump sump designs intended
for solids-bearing liquids. It addresses the special considerations of keeping wet
wells clean and maintaining minimum velocities. Specific recommendations for
wet well geometries are provided.
Reference section (9.8.3)
Pump Suction Piping

The section on suction piping has been rewritten and condensed. It provides information and specific recommendations for suction piping design, suction headers,
and design recommendations for solids-bearing liquids.
Model Testing
The discussion of sump model testing has been expanded to include:
factors for determining when a model test is necessary
scaling criteria for determining adequate model size and proper flow rates
recommended instrumentation and testing methods
acceptance criteria for wet well and suction piping hydraulic performance
Inlet Bell Diameter

When the bell diameter D has not been established, the standard uses a
Design Bell Diameter based on an acceptable velocity range for determination of
sump geometry.
Submergence
The submergence S of pump intakes is determined as a function of inlet bell
Froude number FD and D.
xi
Submergence requirements for the bell or pipe intake, as calculated with this standard, are generally less than the values specified by the 13th edition, but more
than those required by the 14th edition of the Hydraulic Institute standards.
Appendix
These appendices are not part of this standard, but are presented to help
the user in considering factors beyond the standard sump design.
Appendices have been added to include:
a) Remedial Measures for Problem Intakes
b) Sump Volume (calculations with considerations given for cyclical operation of
constant speed pumps)
c) Intake Basin Entrance Conditions
d) Bibliography
Disclaimers
This document presents accepted best practices based upon information available to the Hydraulic Institute as of the date of publication. Nothing presented
herein is to be construed as a warranty of successful performance under any conditions for any application.
xii
Flow Chart For Use Of Standard

NOTE: This flow chart is intended as a guide to the use of this standard and
can be used to locate the appropriate sections in this standard. The chart is not
a substitute for the understanding of the complete standard.
START
IS THERE A
FREE LIQUID
SURFACE ?
NO
SUCTION PIPING
(SECTION
9.8.4)
CAN PUMPS
(SECTION
9.8.2.6)
OPEN
BOTTOM
(SECTION
9.8.2.6.4)
CLOSED
BOTTOM
(SECTION
9.8.2.6.5)
YES
INLET BELL DESIGN

DIAMETER (SECTION 9.8.6)
SUBMERGENCE
(SECTION 9.8.7)
CLEAR
LIQUID ?
NO
YES
RECTANGULAR
INTAKE
(SECTION
9.8.2.1)
TRENCH
TYPE
INTAKE
(SECTION
9.8.2.4)
FORMED
SUCTION
INTAKE
(SECTION
9.8.2.2)
SUCTION
TANKS
(SECTION
9.8.2.5)
TRENCH TYPE
INTAKE
(SECTION
9.8.3.2)
UNCONFINED
INTAKE
(SECTION
9.8.2.7)
NO
END
FLOW > 100,000 GPM PER
STATION OR >40,000 GPM
PER PUMP ?
YES
RECTANGULAR
INTAKE
(SECTION
9.8.3.4)
CIRCULAR
INTAKE
(SECTION
9.8.3.3)
CIRCULAR
INTAKE
(SECTION
9.8.2.3)
FLOW PER
PUMP
> 5000 GPM ?
YES
MODEL TEST
REQUIRED
(SECTION 9.8.5)
NO
END
END
xiii
HI Pump Intake Design 1998
Pump Intake Design

9.8
Pump intake design
Metric units of measurement are used; and corresponding US units appear in brackets. Charts, graphs
and sample calculations are also shown in both metric
and US units.
Since values given in metric units are not exact equivalents to values given in US units, it is important that
the selected units of measure be stated in reference to
this standard. If no such statement is provided, metric
units shall govern. See Section 9.8.8 for Glossary and
Nomenclature.
The intake structure should be designed to allow the

pumps to achieve their optimum hydraulic performance for all operating conditions. A good design
ensures that the adverse flow phenomena described
above are within the limits outlined in Section 9.8.5.6.
If an intake is designed to a geometry other than
that presented in this standard, and this design is
shown by prototype or model tests, performed in
accordance with Section 9.8.5, to meet the acceptance criteria in Section 9.8.5.6, then this alternative design shall be deemed to comply with this
standard.
In the application of this standard, the pump rated flow

shall be used as the design flow for the basis of the
intake design.
9.8.2 Intake structures for clear liquids
9.8.1 Design objectives
This section is applicable to wet pit pumps. This section also applies to the intakes for dry pit pumps with
less than five diameters of suction piping immediately
upstream from the pump (see Section 9.8.4).
Specific hydraulic phenomena have been identified

that can adversely affect the performance of pumps.
Phenomena that must not be present to an excessive
degree are:
9.8.2.1
Rectangular intakes
9.8.2.1.1 Approach flow patterns

The characteristics of the flow approaching an intake
structure is one of the most critical considerations for
the designer. When determining direction and distribution of flow at the entrance to a pump intake structure,
the following must be considered:
Submerged vortices
Free-surface vortices
Excessive pre-swirl of flow entering the pump
Non-uniform spatial distribution of velocity at the

impeller eye
The orientation of the structure relative to the body

of supply liquid
Excessive variations in velocity and swirl with time
Entrained air or gas bubbles
Whether the structure is recessed from, flush with,

or protrudes beyond the boundaries of the body of
supply liquid
Strength of currents in the body of supply liquid

perpendicular to the direction of approach to the
pumps
The number of pumps required and their anticipated operating combinations
The negative impact of each of these phenomena on

pump performance depends on pump specific speed
and size, as well as other design features of the pump
that are specific to a given pump manufacturer. In general, large pumps and axial flow pumps (high specific
speed) are more sensitive to adverse flow phenomena
than small pumps or radial flow pumps (low specific
speed). A more quantitative assessment of which
pump types may be expected to withstand a given
level of adverse phenomena with no ill effects has not
been performed. Typical symptoms of adverse hydraulic conditions are reduced flow rate, head, effects on
power, and increased vibration and noise.
The ideal conditions, and the assumptions upon which

the geometry and dimensions recommended for rectangular intake structures are based, are that the
structure draws flow so that there are no cross-flows in
the vicinity of the intake structure that create asymmetric flow patterns approaching any of the pumps, and
1

the structure is oriented so that the supply boundary is
symmetrical with respect to the centerline of the structure. As a general guide, cross-flow velocities are significant if they exceed 50% of the pump bay entrance
velocity. Section 9.8.5 provides recommendations for
analyzing departures from this ideal condition based
upon a physical hydraulic model study.
9.8.2.1.2 Open vs. partitioned structures
If multiple pumps are installed in a single intake structure, dividing walls placed between the pumps result in
more favorable flow conditions than found in open
sumps. Adverse flow patterns can frequently occur if
dividing walls are not used. For pumps with design
flows greater than 315 l/s (5,000 gpm) dividing walls
between pumps are required.
9.8.2.1.3 Trash racks and screens
Partially clogged trash racks or screens can create
severely skewed flow patterns. If the application is
such that screens or trash racks are susceptible to
clogging, they must be inspected and cleaned as frequently as necessary to prevent adverse effects on
flow patterns.
Any screen-support structure that disrupts flow, such
as dual-flow traveling screens, otherwise known as
double-entry single-exit screens, can create a highvelocity jet and severe instability near the pumps. A
physical hydraulic model study must be performed in
every such case. The screen exit should be placed a
minimum distance of six bell diameters, 6D, (see Section 9.8.6) from the pumps. However, this distance
should be used only as a general guideline for initial
layouts of structures, with final design developed with
the aid of a physical model study.
The recommendations in this standard should be followed if suction bell strainers are used.
9.8.2.1.4 Recommendations for dimensioning
rectangular intake structures
The basic design requirements for satisfactory hydraulic performance of rectangular intake structures
include:
Adequate depth of flow to limit velocities in the

pump bays and reduce the potential for formulation of surface vortices
Adequate pump bay width, in conjunction with the

depth, to limit the maximum pump approach
velocities to 0.5 m/s (1.5 ft/s), but narrow and long

enough to channel flow uniformly toward the pumps
The minimum submergence, S, required to prevent
strong air core vortices is based in part on a dimensionless flow parameter, the Froude number, defined as:
FD = V/(gD)0.5
(9.8.2.1-1)
Where:
FD =
Froude number (dimensionless)
V =
Velocity at
based on D
suction
inlet = Flow/Area,
D =
Outside diameter of bell or pipe inlet
g =
gravitational acceleration
Consistent units must be used for V, D and g so that

FD is dimensionless. The minimum submergence, S,
shall be calculated from (Hecker, G.E., 1987),
S = D(1+2.3FD)
(9.8.2.1-2)
where the units of S are those used for D. Section

9.8.7 provides further information on the background
and development of this relationship.
It is appropriate to specify sump dimensions in multiples of pump bell diameters D (see Section 9.8.6).
Basing dimensions on D ensures geometric similarity
of hydraulic boundaries and dynamic similarity of flow
patterns. There is some variation in bell velocity
among pump types and manufacturers. However, variations in bell inlet velocity are of secondary importance to maintaining acceleration of the flow and
converging streamlines into the pump bell.
The basic recommended layout for rectangular sumps,
dimensioned in units of pump bell diameter D, is
shown in Figure 9.8.1. The dimension variables and
their recommended values are defined in Table 9.8.1.
Through-flow traveling screens generally do not clog to
the point where flow disturbances occur. Therefore,
they may be located such that Y is 4.0D or more in
dimension. For non-selfcleaning trash racks or stationary screens, the dimension Y shall be increased to a
minimum of 5.0D. Care must be taken to ensure that
clogging does not occur to the extent that large nonuniformities in the pump approach flow will be generated.
2
A > 5D
Z 1 > 5D
X > 5D
0<
CROSS-FLOW
VELOCITY, V C
W = 2D
< 10
PUMP BAY VELOCITY,

0.5 m/s (1.5 ft/s) MAX
B = 0.75D
VX
OPTIONAL TRAVELING
THROUGH FLOW SCREEN
Y > 4D
S
MIN LIQUID LEVEL
H
0.3D < C < 0.5D
Z 2 > 5D
-10 <
< 10
Figure 9.8.1 Recommended intake structure

layout
Figure 9.8.2 Filler wall details for proper bay

width
The effectiveness of the recommended pump bay

dimensions depends upon the characteristics of the
flow approaching the structure, and upon the geometry of hydraulic boundaries in the immediate vicinity
of the structure. Section 9.8.2.1.1 provides a discussion of the requirements for satisfactory approach
flow conditions.
Table 9.8.2 provides a sequence of steps to follow in

determining the general layout and internal geometry
of a rectangular intake structure.
Negative values of (the angle of wall divergence)

require flow distribution or straightening devices, and
should be developed with the aid of a physical hydraulic model study.
This standard applies to formed suction intakes. The

standard utilizes the TYPE 10 design developed by
the US Army Corps of Engineers (ETL No. 110-2-327).
The formed suction intake (FSI) may eliminate the
need for the design of sumps with approach channels
and appurtenances to provide satisfactory flow to a
pump. The FSI design is relatively insensitive to the
direction of approach flow and skewed velocity distribution at its entrance. In applying the FSI design, consideration should be given to the head loss in the FSI
which will affect to some extent the system curve calculations, and the net positive suction head (NPSH)
available to the pump impeller, typically located near
the FSI exit.
Occasionally, it is necessary to increase the bay width

to greater than 2D to prevent velocities at the entrance
to the pump bays from exceeding 0.5 m/s (1.5 ft/s).
Greater bay widths may also result due to the arrangement of mechanical equipment. In these cases, the
bay width in the immediate vicinity of the pumps must
be decreased to 2D. The dimension of the filler
required to achieve the reduction in bay width is as
shown in Figure 9.8.2.
For pumps with design flows of 315 l/s (5,000 gpm) or
less, no partition walls between pumps are required,
and the minimum pump spacing shall be 2D.
9.8.2.2
Formed suction intakes
9.8.2.2.1 General
9.8.2.2.2 Dimensions
The FSI design dimensions are indicated in Figure
9.8.3. The wall shown in Figure 9.8.3 above the FSI
3

opening reduces the tendency for surface vortices
when the FSIs are installed in individual bays. The
wall is not necessary for unrestricted approach flow
conditions.
S/D = 1.0 + 2.3 FD

Where:
S
9.8.2.2.3 Application standards
is the distance from the minimum recommended liquid level to the centerline of the
FSI opening in the elevation view
Minimum submergence (see Section 9.8.7) is calculated as follows:
Table 9.8.1 Recommended dimensions for Figures 9.8.1 and 9.8.2

Dimension
Variable
Description
Recommended Value
Distance from the pump inlet bell centerline to

the intake structure entrance
A = 5D minimum, assuming no significant

cross-flowa at the entrance to the intake
structure
Length of constricted bay section near the pump

inlet
a = 2.5D minimum
Distance from the back wall to the pump inlet

bell centerline
B = 0.75D
Distance between the inlet bell and floor
C = 0.3D to 0.5D
Inlet bell design outside diameter
See Section 9.8.6
Minimum liquid depth
H=S+C
Minimum height of constricted bay section near

the pump inlet bell
h = (greater of H or 2.5D)
Minimum pump inlet bell submergence
S = D(1.0 + 2.3 FD)

(see Section 9.8.7 for detailed discussion
on determining minimum submergence)
Pump inlet bay entrance width
W = 2D minimum
Constricted bay width near the pump inlet bell
w = 2D
Pump inlet bay length
X = 5D minimum, assuming no significant

cross-flow at the entrance to the intake
structure
Distance from pump inlet bell centerline to the

through-flow traveling screen
Y = 4D minimum. Dual-flow screens require a

model study
Z1
Distance from pump inlet bell centerline to

diverging walls
Z1 = 5D minimum, assuming no significant

cross-flowa at the entrance to the intake
structure
Z2
Distance from inlet bell centerline to sloping

floor
Z2 = 5D minimum
Angle of floor slope
= 10 to +10 degrees
Angle of wall convergence
= 0 to +10 degrees
(Negative values of , if used, require flow
distribution devices developed through a
physical model study)
Angle of convergence from constricted area to

bay walls
= 10 degrees maximum
a Cross-flow is considered significant when V > 0.5 V average

C
X
4

D
is the diameter of a circle having an area

equivalent to the rectangular FSI opening,
D = [(4/)WHf ]0.5
used in FD, is the average velocity through

the FSI opening
9.8.2.3
Circular pump stations (clear liquids)
The circular geometry results in a smaller circumference, and hence minimizes excavation and construction materials for a given sump volume. The circular
geometry lends itself to the use of the caisson construction technique. The availability of prefabricated
circular construction elements has made this design
the most popular for smaller pump stations. Fully
equipped prefabricated pump stations often have a circular design for the above reasons.
9.8.2.3.1 General
A circular design is suitable for many types and sizes
of pump stations. It can be used with most types of
pumps and for most types of liquids. A circular design
may offer a more compact layout that often results in
reduced construction costs.
The recommended designs of circular stations are categorized in two groups: duplex and triplex. Stations
with four or more pumps are not addressed in the
standard because of complex flow patterns; such
designs require a model study. Circular pump sumps
for flows exceeding 315 l/s (5000 gpm) per pump
require a model test.
Table 9.8.2 Design sequence, rectangular intake structures

Design
Step
Description
Consider the flow patterns and boundary geometry of the body of liquid from which the pump station
is to receive flow. Compare with the approach flow condition described in Section 9.8.2.1.1 and
determine from Section 9.8.5.1 if a hydraulic model study is required.
Determine the number and size of pumps required to satisfy the range of operating conditions likely to
be encountered.
Identify pump inlet bell diameter. If final bell diameter is not available, use the relationship in
Figure 9.8.25 to obtain the inlet bell design diameter
Determine the bell-floor clearance, see Figure 9.8.1. A good preliminary design number is 0.5D.
Determine the required bell submergence, using the relationship in Section 9.8.7.
Determine the minimum allowable liquid depth in the intake structure from the sum of the floor clearance and the required bell submergence.
Check bottom elevation near the entrance to the structure and determine if it is necessary to slope the
floor upstream of the bay entrance.
Check the pump bay velocity for the maximum single-pump flow and minimum liquid depth with the
bay width set to 2D. If bay velocity exceeds 0.5 m/s (1.5 ft/s), then increase the bay width to reduce
to a maximum flow velocity of 0.5 m/s (1.5 ft/s).
If it is necessary to increase the pump bay width to greater than 2D, then decrease bay width in the
vicinity of the pumps according to Figure 9.8.2.
10
Compare cross-flow velocity (at maximum system flow) to average pump bay velocity. If cross-flow
value exceeds 50% of the bay velocity, a hydraulic model study is necessary.
11
Determine the length of the structure and dividing walls, giving consideration to minimum allowable
distances to a sloping floor, screening equipment, and length of dividing walls. If dual flow traveling
screens or drum screens are to be used, a hydraulic model study is required (see Section 9.8.5.1,
Need for Model Study).
12
If the final selected pump bell diameter and inlet velocity is within the range given in Section 9.8.6, the
sump dimensions (developed based on the inlet bell design diameter) need not be changed and
will comply with these standards.
5
Figure 9.8.3 Type 10 formed suction intake

9.8.2.3.2 Recommendations for dimensioning
circular pump stations
9.8.2.3.2.2
Floor clearance Cf
Cf =
Floor clearance
Cw =
Wall clearance
Cb =
Inlet bell or volute clearance (as

applicable)
The floor clearance should not be greater than necessary, because excessive floor clearance increases the
occurrence of stagnant zones as well as the sump
depth at a given submergence. The conditions that
determine the minimum floor clearance (Cf) are the
risk of increasing inlet head loss and flow separation at
the bell. Submerged vortices are also sensitive to floor
clearance. Recommended floor clearance is between
0.3D and 0.5D.
Ds =
Sump diameter
9.8.2.3.2.3
Db =
Inlet bell or volute diameter (as applicable)
S =
Submergence, the vertical distance from

minimum sump liquid level to pump inlet,
usually pump inlet bell (see Section 9.8.7
for details).
The minimum clearance between an inlet bell or a

pump volute and a sump wall is 0.25D or at least
100 mm (4 inches).
9.8.2.3.2.1
Nomenclature
Wall clearance Cw
6
Ds
Ds
Ds
S
S
Cf
Cf
Cf
Cw
Cw
Cw
Cw
Cb
Cb/2
Cb
Cb/2
Cb
Db
Db
C b /2
Db
< D b /2
Db
Ds min = 2.5 D b + 2 C w + Cb
Ds min = 2 D b + 2 C w+ C b
Ds by pit design
Figure 9.8.4A Wet pit duplex

sump with pumps offset
9.8.2.3.2.4
Figure 9.8.4B Wet pit duplex

sump with pumps centerline
Inlet bell clearance Cb
The minimum clearance between adjacent inlet bells

or volutes (as applicable) is 0.25D or at least 100 mm
(4 inches).
9.8.2.3.2.5
Sump diameter Ds
Minimum sump diameter shall be as indicated for each

type of pump sump as shown in Figures 9.8.4A
through 9.8.5C.
9.8.2.3.2.6
Inlet bell or volute diameter Db
This parameter is given by the proposed pump type

and model.
For submersible and other pumps with a volute in the
wet pit, use the volute diameter.
For pumps without a volute in the wet pit, use the inlet
bell diameter.
9.8.2.3.2.7
Figure 9.8.4C Dry pit/wet pit

duplex sump
minimizes air entrainment for liquid cascading down

into the sump from an elevated inflow pipe. It is important to position the inflow pipe(s) radially and normal to
the pumps, as shown in the figures, to minimize rotational flow patterns. For the last five pipe diameters
before entering the sump, the inflow pipe(s) shall be
straight and have no valves or fittings.
9.8.2.4
Trench-type intakes (clear liquids)
This section establishes criteria for design of trenchtype wet wells using both formed suction and bell-type
pump inlets for clear liquid applications.
9.8.2.4.1 General
Trench-type wet wells differ from rectangular intake
structures (see Section 9.8.2.1) by the geometry used
to form a transition between the dimensions of the
influent conduit or channel and the wet well itself. As
illustrated in Figures 9.8.6 and 9.8.7, an abrupt transition is used to create a confined trench for the location
of the pump inlets.
Inflow pipe
The inflow pipe shall not be placed at an elevation

higher than that shown in the figures. This placement
While only limited modeling work has been conducted

on trench-type wet wells, successful applications with
individual pump capacities as great as 4730 l/s
7

applications of the trench-type design have been with
the incoming flow directed along the wet well's long
axis (coaxial). Model studies shall be conducted for
any installation with individual pump capacities
exceeding 2520 l/s (40,000 gpm) or stations with
capacities greater than 6310 l/s (100,000 gpm).
(75,000 gpm) and installation capacities of 14,200 l/s

(225,000 gpm) have been constructed for centrifugal
pumps. Axial and mixed flow applications of the
trench-type wet well include individual pump capacities of 2900 l/s (46,000 gpm) and total installation
capacities of up to 12,000 l/s (190,000 gpm). Most
Ds
Ds
Ds
S
S
Cf
Cw
Cf
Cf
Cw
Cw
Cw
Db
Cb
Cb
Db
C b /2
Cb
Db
Ds min = 3 D b + 2 C w + Cb
Ds min = 2 (D b + 2 C w + C b )
Figure 9.8.5A Wet pit triplex

sump, pumps in line
Figure 9.8.5B Wet pit

triplex sump, compact
Ds by pit design
Figure 9.8.5C Dry pit/wet pit

triplex sump
Figure 9.8.6 Trench-type wet well

8

9.8.2.4.5 Width
The recommended width of the bottom of the trench
for trench-type wet wells is twice the diameter of the
pump intake bell. The width of the sump above the
trench must be expanded to produce an average limiting velocity in the trapezoidal area above the trench of
0.3 m/s (1.0 ft/s). See Figure 9.8.6.
W
Influent pipe
or conduit
1.5 W
9.8.2.4.6 Intake submergence

PLAN
Formed suction
inlet, typ.
See Submergence, Section 9.8.7

Liquid surface
variation
Min liquid level
Max velocity in
channel above
trench = 0.3 m/s
(1 ft/s)
Hf /2
SECTION
Hf
Cross-sectional area
Equal to FSI
entrance area
Hf
Formed suction inlet (FSI)
See 9.8.2.2 for FSI dimensions
Figure 9.8.7 Trench-type wet well with formed

suction inlet
9.8.2.4.7 End wall clearance

Clearance between the centerline of the intake bell
and the end walls of the trench should be 0.75D.
9.8.2.4.8 Floor clearance
Clearance between the floor of the trench and the rim
of the inlet bell shall be 0.3D to 0.5D. Floor cones are
recommended under each of the pump inlet bells. See
Paragraph 9.8.3.2.3.2 for solids-bearing liquids.
9.8.2.4.9 Centerline spacing
Centerline spacing of adjacent intake bells shall be no
less than 2.5D.
9.8.2.4.2 Objectives
The purpose of the trench-type wet well is to shield the
pump intakes from the influence of the concentrated
inflow. The shielding is accomplished by locating the
inlets well below the invert elevation of the influent
channel or conduit.
9.8.2.4.10
9.8.2.4.3 Orientation
9.8.2.5
It is preferable to align the long axis of the wet well with

the centerline of the upstream conduit or channel. Offset centerlines are not recommended. The approach
conduit can be normal to the axis of the trench as long
as careful attention is given to the approach velocity.
The approach velocity is limited for each orientation.
See Section 9.8.2.4.4.
9.8.2.5.1 General
9.8.2.4.4 Approach velocity

The velocity in the approach channel or conduit,
upstream from the wet well, shall be no greater than
1.2 m/s (4.0 ft/s) with the axis of the channel or conduit
coaxial with the axis of the wet well. If the axis of the
channel or conduit is normal to the axis of the
trench, a maximum velocity of 0.6 m/s (2.0 ft/s) is
recommended.
Inlet conduit elevation
The elevation of the incoming conduit shall be

adjusted so that a cascade is avoided at the minimum
liquid level.
Suction tanks
This standard applies to partly filled tanks, pressurized

or non-pressurized, handling non-solids bearing liquids
where the outflow occurs with or without simultaneous
inflow. The following design features are considered:
Tank Geometry
Vertical Cylindrical
Horizontal Cylindrical
Rectangular
Outlet Orientation and Location
Vertical, Downwards
Horizontal, Side
Horizontal, Bottom
Vertical, Upwards
9

Outlet Configuration
Flush With Tank Interior Surface
Protruding Through Tank Interior Surface
For further discussion of submergence, see Section 9.8.7
Outlet Fitting
Straight
Cone
Bell
Whereas Figure 9.8.8, examples 1 through 4 show

how the calculated submergence value is to be
applied, Figure 9.8.9, examples 5 through 8 show
where values of V and D are obtained for the three
types of outlet fitting designs: straight, cone-shaped,
and bell-shaped. If the desired minimum submergence
is less than that calculated by the above relationship,
the outlet size, and therefore fluid velocity, may be
adjusted to reduce the required minimum submergence. It may be desirable to use a bell-shaped or
cone-shaped fitting to reduce the head loss in the fitting. In such cases, shown in Figure 9.8.9, examples 5
through 8, the largest diameter of the fitting is used in
the above equations to calculate velocity, V. Owing to
the uncertain approach conditions typically encountered in a closed tank or vessel, outlet vortex breakers
as illustrated in Appendix A, Figure A.12, should be
considered.
The purpose of this standard is to recommend features of tank connections to minimize air or gas
entrainment during the pumping process. It is
assumed that the pump is far enough downstream
of the tank outlet, such that flow irregularities are
dissipated.
9.8.2.5.3 Discussion
Due to the formation of vortices inside the tank, air or
gas entrainment can occur in pump suction tanks,
even when the tank outlet is totally submerged. Severe
cases of air entrainment can cause erratic or noisy
pump operation or reduction in pump performance. A
pump is affected by entrained air that can collect, and
in severe cases, block the impeller eye and cause loss
of prime.
9.8.2.5.5 Application options
The extent of air entrainment, caused by vortex formation in a suction tank, depends on the vortex strength,
submergence of the tank outlet, and the fluid velocity
in the tank outlet. Vortices may occur in tanks under
vacuum or pressure, whether or not the level is varying
or steady due to inflow.
9.8.2.5.4 Principles
See Figure 9.8.8, examples 1 through 4. The recommended minimum submergence S of the outlet fitting
below the free surface of the liquid within the tank to
prevent air core vortices, given tank outlet diameter D,
may be obtained from the relationship
S/D = 1.0 + 2.3 FD
Where:
FD =
Froude number = V/ (gD)0.5
D =
outlet fitting diameter
V =
outlet fitting velocity
g =
acceleration of gravity
Figure 9.8.8 Datum for calculation of

submergence
10

9.8.2.6 Can and submersible vertical turbine
pump intakes (clear liquids)
9.8.2.5.6 NPSH considerations

All the head losses incurred from the free liquid surface to the pump inlet must be considered when calculating the NPSH available for the pump.
A can pump is a pump that has a barrel around the

pumping unit.
9.8.2.5.7 Simultaneous inflow and outflow

In general, tanks should not have the inlet pipe close
to the tank outlet when inflow and outflow occur simultaneously. Suitable baffling or other flow distribution
devices may be required to isolate the outlet or reduce
the inlet effects on flow patterns. Special attention
should also be given to the design to avoid air entrainment with a non-submerged inlet pipe.
9.8.2.5.8 Multiple Inlets or Outlets
The design of tanks with multiple inlets and/or outlets
should be such that unsatisfactory flow interaction
does not occur. Baffling or other flow distribution
devices may be required to eliminate such effects.
Type of Outlet Fitting

(Straight, Cone, or Bell)
Direction of
Tank Outlet
a) Straight
c) Bell
D
V
5) Vertically
Downwards
(Bottom)
Outlet
D
V
6) Horizontal,
(Side)
Outlet
It is necessary to design the can intake such that the

first stage impeller suction bell inflow velocity profile is
uniform. An asymmetrical velocity profile may result in
hydraulic disturbances, such as swirling, submerged
vortices and cavitation, that may result in performance
degradation and accelerated pump wear.
V
D
V
V
D
7) Horizontal,
(Bottom)
Outlet
8) Vertically
Upwards
It is recommended that the vertical pump be allowed to

hang freely suspended and without restraining attachments to its vertical pump can (riser). However, if it is
necessary to install restraining attachments between
the pump and barrel, such as for seismic compliance,
binding of the pump must be avoided.
Eccentric
Reducer
V
D
V
D
The following provides guidelines to avoid unfavorable

flow conditions for both open bottom and closed bottom vertical turbine can pump intakes.
V
D
The intake design information provided is for vertical

turbine type pumps less than 5000 specific speed (US
units). Higher specific speed vertical mixed flow and
propeller pumps may perform in a barrel; however;
they are more sensitive to hydraulic suction design.
Refer to the pump manufacturer for specific can intake
designs for these pumps.
9.8.2.6.3 Design considerations
D
V
D
V
The purpose of this section is to establish criteria for

the design of clear liquid intakes for open bottom and
closed bottom can vertical turbine pumps as well as for
submersible (well motor driven) vertical turbine
pumps. It is necessary to avoid designs to simply fit
into a piping arrangement without considering flow
patterns to the can inlet or in the barrel itself. For submersible vertical turbine pumps, the cooling of the
immersed motor must also be considered.
9.8.2.6.2 Objective
b) Cone
9.8.2.6.1 General
The pump manufacturer should be consulted regarding the design of any component that affects the pump
hydraulic intake performance. These include the
suction barrel, 90 turning vane elbow and vortex
suppressor.
Figure 9.8.9 Definitions of V and D for

calculation of submergence
11

The 90 turning vane inlet diameter (D) shall be sized
to limit the inflow velocity to 1.5 m/s (5.0 ft/s). Attachment of a 90 vaned elbow to the horizontal header is
recommended to provide hydraulic thrust restraint.
Caution is necessary when using this intake configuration in liquids containing trash or crustaceans that
attach to the turning vanes.
9.8.2.6.4 Open bottom can intakes (Figure 9.8.10)

The minimum liquid level is considered a minimum
operational level. When the pump is started, the minimum liquid level will reduce momentarily until the
pump flow velocity is achieved. The intake piping must
be large enough to limit draw down below the recommended minimum suction level to a period of less than
3 seconds during start-up.
Example 2 - The vortex suppressor and pump are an

integral assembly which can be removed for repair,
cleaning and inspection. A vortex suppressor is necessary to break up abnormal flow patterns ahead of the
pump suction bell. For vertical turbine pumps with
rated flows less than 315 l/s (5000 gpm) the maximum
horizontal header velocity is 1.8 m/s (6.0 ft/s) and the
maximum riser velocity is 1.5 m/s (5.0 ft/s). The installation must allow the pump to hang centered in the vertical riser pipe.
Open bottom can intakes with flows greater than 315 l/s
(5000 gpm) per pump require a model test.
Example 1 - This pump intake configuration is particularly effective when liquid elevations (pump submergence) is limited. Flows through a horizontal suction
header with velocities up to 2.4 m/s (8.0 ft/s) can be
effectively directed into a vertical turbine pump by use
of a 90 vaned elbow. Intake model tests for pump
flows above 315 l/s (5000 gpm) are recommended.
VERTICAL CAN
(RISER)
D1
MIN. LIQUID LEVEL
VERTICAL CAN
(RISER)
1.0 D1
TURBINE PUMP
BOWL ASSEMBLY
D1
CL 1st. IMPELLER
MIN. LIQUID LEVEL
TURBINE PUMP
BOWL ASSEMBLY
1.0 D
3.0 D1
MIN.
CL 1st. IMPELLER
VORTEX
SUPPRESOR
V (Riser) < 1.5 m/s (5 ft/s)
90 TURNING
VANE ELBOW
V (Turning Vane) < 1.5 m/s (5 ft/s)
V (Header) < 1.8 m/s (6 ft/s)
V (Header) < 2.4 m/s

(8 ft/s)
HORIZONTAL HEADER
HORIZONTAL HEADER
EXAMPLE-1
EXAMPLE-2
VERTICAL CAN
(RISER)
D1
MIN. LIQUID LEVEL
TURBINE PUMP
BOWL ASSEMBLY
1.0 D 1
CL 1st. IMPELLER
90 TURNING
VANE ELBOW
V (Turning Vane) < 1.5 m/s (5 ft/s)
SUCTION HEADER END

EXAMPLE-3
THRUST BLOCK
TO RESTRAIN 90
ELBOW MAY BE
NECESSARY
TURBINE PUMP
BOWL ASSEMBLY
DRY PIT APPLICATION

"O"RING OR GASKET
JOINTS TO PREVENT
LEAKAGE.
FLEXIBLE CONNECTOR
WITH HARNESED TIE
BOLTS.
90 LONG RADIUS
ELBOW
V < 0.6 m/s

(2 ft/s)
OPTIONAL STRAIGHTENING
VANES ALLOWS VELOCITY
INCREASE TO 1.5 m/s (5 ft/s)
D
5D MINIMUM
STRAIGHT PIPE
DRY PIT
EXAMPLE-4
Figure 9.8.10 Open bottom can intakes (pumps less than 315 l/s [5000 gpm])
12

Example 3 - When the vertical riser is located at the
end of a suction header, a 90 vaned elbow must be
used to direct flow into the pumps suction. This intake
configuration is effective when liquid elevation (pump
submergence) is limited. The 90 turning vane inlet
diameter (D) shall be sized to limit the inflow velocity to
1.5 m/s (5.0 ft/s).
Example 4 - A 90 long radius elbow may be used at
the end of a suction header to direct flow into the
pump suction when velocities are less than 0.6 m/s
(2.0 ft/s). Installing vanes in the elbow (although difficult) promotes a uniform velocity flow profile. Velocities
up to 1.5 m/s (5.0 ft/s) are acceptable when the elbow
is fully vaned.
A flexible joint between the pump suction and the

elbow is recommended to isolate the pump from piping
loads. Because this is a dry pit application, the joints
throughout the pump should be sealed against leakage by the use of O rings, gaskets, etc.
9.8.2.6.5 Closed bottom can
The most typical can pump configurations are closed
bottom. See Figure 9.8.11 for design recommendations with various inlet pipe positions relative to the
bell.
Centering of the pump in relation to the can to avoid
rotational flow being generated by non-uniform flow
around a non-concentric pump is of particular importance. Care must be taken during installation of the
Figure 9.8.11 Closed bottom can

13

barrel to assure concentricity of pump to barrel. Flow
straightening vanes are suggested for all can intakes
and shall be provided for pump capacities greater than
189 l/s (3000 gpm). A pair of vanes should be centered on the inlet to the barrel and extended to above
the normal liquid level or to the top of the barrel, as
applicable. The vanes should protrude as far as practical into the barrel. A set of vanes in the form of a cross
should be provided under the pump bell. In some
applications, the pump manufacturer may wish to use
other methods to prevent swirling.
provide for adequate motor cooling. For many applications a shroud is required to assure proper cooling
flow around the motor. Sizing of the cooling shroud for
internal flow velocities must be referred to the pump
manufacturer. The top of the shroud must include a
cover to restrict downward flow of liquid, while allowing
for venting of air from the shroud.
Because of the limited volume provided by a can type

intake, surging of the liquid level within the barrel may
be a problem when operating with a partially filled can.
The first stage impeller is located above both the

strainer and motor. A suction case is located below the
first stage impeller. The confined flow pathway provided by the motor cooling shroud is very desirable in
developing a uniform flow to the first stage impeller.
Therefore, placement of the wet pit type submersible
per Section 9.8.2.1 is only necessary for flow rates
above 315 l/s (5000 gpm).
The intake piping must be large enough to limit draw

down below the recommended minimum liquid level to
a period of less than 3 seconds during start-up.
The intake piping must be large enough to limit draw

down below the recommended minimum liquid level to
a period of less than 3 seconds during start-up.
9.8.2.6.6 Submersible pumps (well motor type)

9.8.2.7
Design criteria is provided for both wet pit type and
closed bottom can below grade suction intakes.
Proper placement of this type of submersible pump in
a well is beyond the scope of this standard.
A submersible well type motor normally requires a
minimum flow of liquid around the immersed motor to
Unconfined intakes
9.8.2.7.1 Scope
Unconfined intakes involve pumps installed on platforms or other structures where the intake lacks guide
walls, walls of a sump or other flow guiding structures.
Typical installations include intakes on rivers, canals or
Figure 9.8.12 Submersible vertical turbine pump

14

channels, intakes on lakes and pumps located on platforms for seawater systems.
Where:
FD =
Froude number = V/(gD)0.5
9.8.2.7.2 Cross-flow velocities and pump location

Pumps with unconfined intakes are often located
where a unidirectional cross-flow occurs, or on platforms where tidal variations may cause highly complex
current conditions around the pump inlet bell. The
minimum recommended distance from an obstruction
to the pump suction in the direction of any current that
could cause wake effects is five times the maximum
cross-sectional dimension of the obstruction.
D =
outlet fitting diameter
V =
outlet fitting velocity
For further discussion of submergence, see Section 9.8.7.
9.8.3 Intake structures for solids-bearing

liquids
9.8.3.1
Cross-flow velocities shall be less than 25% of the bell

velocity, but the designer may have little control over
this variable. Installations with higher cross-flow velocities require special flow correction devices which are
beyond this design standard (see Appendix A for reference information). For higher cross-flow velocities,
supplemental lateral support of the pump may be
required.
General
Wet wells for solids-bearing liquids require special

considerations to allow for the removal of floating and
settling solids. These considerations include wet well
geometry and provisions for cleaning of the structure
to remove material that would otherwise be trapped
and result in undesirable conditions.
9.8.3.1.1 Scope
If debris or bottom sediments are not a problem, the

inlet bell shall be located 0.3 to 0.5 D above the bottom
to minimize submerged vortices. For applications
where suspension of bottom debris may be a problem,
a 5D minimum clearance is suggested.
For installations on platforms along the seashore, suspension of sand during storms is unavoidable due to
wave action. In some cases, a bed of armor stone
around the intake has proved useful in minimizing suspension of sediments. The design of such armor layers should be performed with the assistance of an
engineer with experience in sediment transport and
design of riprap protection, as the proper design of
armor stone protection requires specialized techniques.
9.8.2.7.3 Debris and screens
Debris is of particular concern for unconfined intakes.
Light debris loading may be accommodated by
screens attached to the pump bell. Special design
considerations are required to accommodate heavy
debris loading.
Large floating debris and ice which could damage the
pump is also of concern. A barrier may be required to
protect the pump. These barriers should not introduce
wake disturbances into the pump.
9.8.2.7.4 Submergence
S/D = 1.0 + 2.3 FD
This standard applies specifically to installations

where the pumped liquid contains solids that may float
or settle in the wet well. Fluids such as wastewater,
industrial discharges, storm or canal drainage, combined wastewater, and some raw water supplies are
included in this category.
The objective of this standard is to introduce special
design features recommended for wet wells used in
solids-bearing liquid applications. These features are
intended to eliminate or minimize accumulations of
solids, thereby reducing maintenance. Organic solids
accumulations not removed may become septic, causing odors, increasing corrosion, and releasing hazardous gases.
9.8.3.1.3 Principles
The main principle is to minimize horizontal surfaces in
the wet well anywhere but directly within the influence
of the pump inlets, thereby directing all solids to a
location where they may be removed by the pumping
equipment. Vertical or steeply sloped sides shall be
provided for the transition from upstream conduits or
channels to pump inlets. Trench-type wet wells (see
Section 9.8.2.4) and circular plan wet wells (see Section 9.8.2.3), with some modifications as presented in
this section, have been found to be suitable for this
purpose.
15

9.8.3.1.4 Vertical transitions
9.8.3.1.5 Confined inlet
Transitions between levels in wet wells for solidsbearing liquids shall be at steep angles (60 minimum
for concrete, 45 minimum for smooth-surfaced materials such as plastic and coated concreteall angles
relative to horizontal) to prevent solids accumulations
and promote movement of the material to a location
within the influence of the currents entering the pump
intakes. Horizontal surfaces should be eliminated
where possible except near the pump inlet. See Figures 9.8.13 and 9.8.14.
The horizontal surface immediately in front (for formed

suction inlets) or below (for bell inlets) should be limited to a small, confined space directly in front of or
below the inlet itself. To make cleaning more effective,
the walls and floor forming the space must be confined
so that currents can sweep floating and settled solids
to the pump inlet. See Figure 9.8.17.
Transition from circular to rectangular

recommended, see Section 9.8.3.2.1
D
PLAN
2.5 D
min.
0.75 D
Anti-rotation baffle (protude

as far as practical)
A
0.3 m/s (1.0 ft/s) max
velocity above trench
4 ft/s max
Sluice gate
Min level
S
0.5
to
1.0
2D min
D/2
Vane
D/4
Hydro cone
2D
SECTION A-A
A
LONGITUDINAL SECTION
2.33 head on sluice gate (2D min)

45 for smooth surface (plastic lining)
60 for concrete
S (1 + 2.3FD)D
Figure 9.8.13 Open trench-type wet well
A
MIN LEVEL
D/4
2D
A
SECTION A-A
Figure 9.8.14 Open trench-type wet well for pumps sensitive to loss of prime
16

9.8.3.1.6 Cleaning procedures
Removal of solids from wet wells, designed in accordance with these principles, can be achieved by operating the pumps selectively to lower the level in the wet
well until the pumps lose prime. Both settled and floating solids are removed by the pumping equipment and
discharged to the force main (or discharge conduit).
This cleaning procedure momentarily subjects the
pumps to vibration, dry running, and other severe conditions. Consult the pump manufacturer before selecting the pumping equipment. The frequency of cleaning
cycles is dependent on local conditions, and therefore
should be determined by experience at the site.
Alternatively, liquid jets or mixers positioned to create
horizontal and vertical currents, can be used intermittently or continuously to maintain suspension and
direct floating and settled solids toward the pump
intakes. The solids are swept into the pump intake for
removal. Caution should be exercised, when using jets
or mixers, to avoid inducing continuous currents near
pump inlets that could result in damage to the pumping equipment.
9.8.3.1.7 Wet well volume
Wet wells for variable speed pumping stations
designed to match outflow with inflow need not be
designed for storage, but rather only to accommodate
the inlets and the geometry required for velocity limitations and cleaning.
Wet wells for constant speed pumps should be constructed to minimize size for economy and to facilitate
cleaning. One approach is to provide storage for pump
regulation in the upstream conduit or channel, as well
as in the wet well itself. Refer to Appendix B for guidance on sump volume for constant speed pumps and
Appendix C for storage in the upstream conduit.
9.8.3.2 Trench-type wet wells for solids-bearing
liquids
operation of the pumping equipment using a special

procedure. This standard provides guidance on the
geometry necessary to induce scouring velocities during the cleaning procedure. Experience has shown
that trench-type wet wells with an ogee transition
between the entrance conduit and the trench floor
provides optimum geometry for efficient cleaning
operations.
Refer to Sections 9.8.3.2.3 to 9.8.3.2.5 and Figure
9.8.13 for recommendations for trench-type wet wells.
Trench-type wet wells can be used with both constant
speed and variable speed pumping equipment.
There is no difference between wet wells for variable
as compared with constant speed pumps, but there is
a difference between inlet conduits for the two kinds of
pumping stations. With variable speed pumps, there is
no need for storage, because pump discharge equals
inflow. Consequently, the water level in the wet well
can be made to match the water level in the upstream
conduit.
When constant speed pumps are used, the water level
must fluctuate rising when pumps are off and falling
when they are running. There must be sufficient active
storage to prevent excessive frequency of motor
starts. As trench-type wet wells are inherently small
and not easily adapted to contain large volumes of
active storage, it is desirable to dedicate a portion of
the upstream conduit to storage. The dedicated portion is called an approach pipe. It is usually 75 to 150
mm (3 to 6 inches) larger than the conduit upstream of
the dedicated portion, and it is laid at a compromise
gradient of 2% (although other gradients could be
used.) At low water level, the velocity in the approach
pipe is supercritical, thus leaving a large part of the
cross section empty for storage as the water level
rises. The design of approach pipes is not a part of
these standards, but the essentials of design are given
in Appendix C.
9.8.3.2.3 Open trench design
See Figure 9.8.13 for the arrangement of an open
trench wet well.
9.8.3.2.1 General
The purpose of this section is to establish criteria for
design of trench-type wet wells for solids-bearing liquids such as stormwater, wastewater, and canal-type
pumping stations.
Trench-type wet wells have been successfully
designed to provide for cleaning with the periodic
9.8.3.2.3.1
Inlet transition
The ogee spillway transition at the inlet to the wet well

trench is designed to convert potential energy in the
influent liquid to kinetic energy during the wet well
cleaning cycle. The curvature at the top of the spillway
should follow the trajectory of a free, horizontal jet
issuing from under the sluice gate and discharging
17

approximately 75% of the flow rate of the last pump.
The radius of the curvature, r, shall be at least 2.3
times the pressure head upstream of the sluice gate
during cleaning. The radius of curvature at the bottom
of the ogee need be large enough only for a smooth
transition to horizontal flow; 0.5 r to 1.0 r is sufficient.
To produce smooth flow down the ogee ramp and
avoid standing waves, the discharge under the sluice
gate should be uniform in depth across the 2D width of
the trench. Either (1) a short transition from a circular
to a rectangular section, as shown in Figure 9.8.13 or
(2) a short rectangular recess in front of the sluice gate
is recommended.
9.8.3.2.3.2
Inlet floor clearance
All bell-type pump inlets, except that farthest from the

wet well inlet, shall be located D/2 above the floor of
the wet well trench. The inlet for the last pump (farthest from the wet well inlet) shall be located D/4
above the floor of the trench. See Figure 9.8.13.
For pumps that may be sensitive to loss of prime (due
to entrainment of air from surface vortices), the last
pump inlet can be lowered by D/4 provided the floor
near the intake is lowered by the same amount. See
Figure 9.8.14 for this arrangement. All other dimensions and velocities for this arrangement shall comply
with those given in Figure 9.8.13.
9.8.3.2.3.3
the flow rate of the last pump in the trench by adjusting

the sluice gate. The pumps are operated to lower the
liquid level to a minimum as rapidly as possible such
that the stored liquid volume is sufficient to complete
the cleaning cycle. As the liquid level in the wet well
falls, the liquid attains supercritical velocity as it flows
down the ogee spillway, and a hydraulic jump is
formed at the toe. As the hydraulic jump moves along
the bottom of the trench, the jump and the swift currents suspend the settled solids, causing them to be
pumped from the trench. As the hydraulic jump passes
under each pump intake, the pump loses prime and
should be stopped.
9.8.3.3 Circular plan wet pit for solids-bearing
liquids
9.8.3.3.1 Wet pit design
The design of the wet pit should adhere to the general
recommendations given in Section 9.8.2.3. Additionally, the bottom of the wet pit shall have sloped surfaces around the inlet bells or pumps, as shown in
Figures 9.8.15 and 9.8.16.
9.8.3.3.2 Accessories
The use of pump and sump accessories that cause
collection or entrapment of solids should be limited to
a practical minimum.
Inlet splitters and cones
Fin-type floor splitters aligned with the axis of the

trench are recommended. They must be centered
under the suction bells for all but the pump inlet farthest from the wet well entrance. A floor cone should
be installed under the pump inlet farthest from the wet
well inlet conduit or pipe as shown in Figure 9.8.13.
9.8.3.2.3.4
Anti-rotation baffle
An anti-rotation baffle at the last pump inlet, shown in

Figure 9.8.13, is needed to ensure satisfactory performance during the cleaning cycle. The anti-rotation baffle should protrude towards the pump as far as
practicable.
9.8.3.2.3.5
Cleaning procedure
Trench-type wet wells for solids-bearing liquids can be

cleaned readily by stopping all pumps to store enough
liquid for the cleaning process in the upstream conduit.
When sufficient liquid is available, flow into the wet
well should be limited to approximately 75 percent of
Figure 9.8.15 Circular wet pit with sloping walls

and minimized horizontal floor area (submersible
pumps shown for illustration)
18

9.8.3.3.3 Cleaning procedure
The frequency of cleaning cycles is dependent on

local conditions, and therefore should be determined
by experience at the site. Removal of settled solids is
effected each time a pump is activated, but removal of
floating solids can only be accomplished when the liquid surface area is at a minimum and the pump intake
submergence is low enough (0.5 to 1.0 D) to create a
strong surface vortex (number 4 to number 6 in Figure
9.8.23). Such a submergence level is lower than that
recommended in Section 9.8.7. Pumping under these
severe conditions will cause noise, vibration, and high
loads on the impeller and hence should be limited to
brief, infrequent periods (refer to pump manufacturers
recommendation). The pumps should be stopped as
soon as they lose prime, or as soon as the sump is
free of floating debris.
The objective of this section is to describe several

means for minimizing or eliminating accumulations of
solids before they interfere with the operation of the
pumps or before they become septic and generate
excessive odors that must be treated.
Designing the wet well to provide currents swift

enough (e.g., 1.0 m/s [3.0 ft/s] or more) to carry
settleable solids to the pump intakes. Such a
means should be thoroughly investigated before a
design is begun.
9.8.3.4 Rectangular wet wells for solids-bearing

liquids
Violent mixing to suspend sediments while the

mixture is being removed by the main pumps.
These methods include:
9.8.3.4.3 Control of sediments

Several means for controlling the accumulation of sediments are possible, such as:
9.8.3.4.1 General
1) Use of submerged mixers.
The geometry of rectangular wet wells is not particularly suited for use with solids-bearing liquids, but with
special provisions for frequent cleaning, such wet
wells may be acceptable.
2) Bypassing part of the pump discharge back

into the wet well.
3) Connecting the force main to a valve and then
to the wet well. About half of the pump discharge is allowed to recirculate back into the
wet well.
Dewatering the wet well and sweeping solids to

the pumps with a high-pressure hose.
Vacuuming both floating and settled solids out of

the wet well, usually by an external pump and
hose.
Dewatering one side of the wet well (if possible)

and removing the solids.
9.8.3.4.4 Confined wet well design

In this arrangement each suction inlet bell is located in
a confined pocket to isolate the pump from any flow
disturbances that might be generated by adjacent
pumps, to restrict the area in which solids can settle,
and to maintain higher velocities at the suction inlet in
order to minimize the amount of solids settling out of
the flow.
Figure 9.8.16 Circular wet pit with sloping
walls and minimized horizontal floor area (dry
pit pumps)
See Figure 9.8.17 for the arrangement of a confined

wet well.
19

9.8.3.4.4.1
Suction inlet clearance
All suction inlets shall be located D/4 above the floor of

the wet well. The side walls of the individual cell
should be 1.5 to 2.0 D in dimension. The depth of the
individual cell must be a minimum of 2.0 D square. A
cone shall be installed under each suction inlet.
9.8.3.4.4.2
Anti-rotation baffle
Anti-rotation baffles are required for individual flows in

excess of 189 l/s (3000 gpm).
9.8.3.4.4.3
Cleaning procedure
Removal of settled solids from wet wells, designed in

accordance with the Figure 9.8.17, can be achieved by
operating the pumps one at a time at full speed for a
duration of about two minutes. Typically, only one
pump should be operated at a time to avoid excessive
draw down of the liquid level in the sump.
The majority of floating solids are removed from the
sump by operating the pumps one at a time at full
speed while restricting the flow into the wet well to 80
to 60 percent of the flow rate of the pump at full speed.
Adjusting the sluice gate is the normal method of flow
Anti-Rotation Baffle
1.5-2.0 D
D
PLAN
Vertical or steep slopes
to pump inlet pipe
covered with PVC
0.6 m/s max

(2.0 ft/s max)
45 Min.
Greater of
4D or S
>2D
D/4
1.5-2.0 D
Cone
Section
Pump inlet located in a confined

pocket at least 1.5 bell diameters
but no more than 2 bell diameters
in plan in any direction
restriction. As the liquid level in the wet well falls, swift

currents will suspend most of the floating debris, causing them to be pumped from the trench. The pump
will eventually lose prime and must be stopped
immediately.
Both settled and floating solids are removed by the
pumping equipment and discharged to the force main
(or discharge conduit). This cleaning procedure
momentarily subjects the pumps to vibration, dry running, and other severe conditions. The frequency of
cleaning cycles is dependent on local conditions, and
therefore should be determined by experience at the
site. Generally, the cleaning operation will take less
than 5 minutes to perform and the duration between
cleaning cycles would typically be 1 to 2 weeks.
9.8.4 Pump suction piping

9.8.4.1
General
This section provides information and design recommendations for suction piping, required for all pumping
applications, except where the pump inlet is immersed
in the liquid. Proper design of suction piping is critical
in that it determines the uniformity of flow delivered to
the pump. Disturbed inflow causes deterioration of
pump performance and may shorten pump life due to
vibration and cavitation. Discharge piping has virtually
no effect on pump performance other than the head
loss that it creates. In this section, the term pipe fittings refers to all types of plumbing fittings, such as
bends, reducers, tee and wye connections, and all
types of valves.
This standard is intended to provide design recommendations such that the pump will receive inflow of
sufficient uniformity to perform its intended duty. Other
piping considerations, such as head loss, material
selection, costs, and space requirements also need to
be considered and are not covered here.
9.8.4.2
Principles
The ideal flow entering the pump inlet should be of a

uniform velocity distribution without rotation and stable
over time. This ideal flow is often referred to as undisturbed flow, and it can be achieved by controlling pipe
lengths and the type and location of fittings in the suction piping system. The suction piping should be
designed such that it is simple with gentle transitions if
changing pipe sizes. Transitions resulting in flow deceleration at the pump shall not used.
Figure 9.8.17 Confined wet wall design

20

Table 9.8.3 Acceptable velocity ranges for inlet
bell diameter D
Pump
Flow
Range Q,
l/s
Recommended
Inlet Bell Design
Velocity,
m/s
Acceptable
Velocity Range,
m/s
< 315
V = 1.7
0.6 V 2.7
315
< 1260
V = 1.7
0.9 V 2.4
1260
V = 1.7
1.2 V 2.1
NOTE: See Figure 9.8.25A for corresponding inlet diameters (OD), calculated according to D = [Q/(785V)]0.5
Figure 9.8.18 Common intakes for suction piping

showing submergence datum references
The velocities recommended in Section 9.8.4.3 shall
be adhered to while keeping in mind that higher velocities increase head loss and thus decrease the NPSH
available at the pump inlet.
The effect of disturbed flow conditions at the inlet bell,
i.e., at the beginning of the suction piping, tend to
diminish with distance. Short suction piping is less
effective in moderating disturbances before the flow
reaches the pump. Good inflow conditions at the inlet
bell exists if the intake is designed following recommendations in other parts of this standard. See Figure
9.8.18. The recommended inlet bell velocity is specified in Table 9.8.3.
Part of the suction piping system can be subjected to
pressures below atmospheric. It is, therefore, important to ensure that all fitting joints are tight, because air
entrainment on the suction side may cause a reduction
in pump performance and can be difficult to detect.
Manifolds and suction headers are covered in Section
9.8.4.3.1.
Pump
Flow
Range Q,
gpm
Recommended
Inlet Bell Design
Velocity,
ft/s
Acceptable
Velocity Range,
ft/s
< 5,000
V = 5.5
2V9
5,000
< 20,000
V = 5.5
3V8
20,000
V = 5.5
4V7
NOTE: See Figure 9.8.25B for corresponding inlet diameters (OD), calculated according to D = (0.409Q/V)0.5
9.8.4.3
Recommendations
The maximum recommended velocity in the suction

piping is 2.4 m/s (8.0 ft/s). Velocities may be increased
at the pump suction flange by the use of a gradual
reducer. Higher velocities are acceptable providing the
piping design delivers a smooth inlet flow to the pump
suction as required in Section 9.8.5.6. The velocity in
the suction piping should be constant or increasing as
the flow approaches the pump.
For many common solids-bearing liquids, a velocity of
about 1.0 m/s (3.0 ft/s) is required to prevent sedimentation in horizontal piping. A velocity as low as 0.6 m/s
(2.0 ft/s) is generally sufficient for organic solids.
There shall be no flow disturbing fittings (such as partially open valves, tees, short radius elbows, etc.)
closer than five suction pipe diameters from the pump.
Fully open, non-flow disturbing valves, vaned elbows,
long radius elbows and reducers are not considered
flow disturbing fittings (refer to Figures 9.8.19 and
9.8.20).
21

Flow
Disturbing
Fitting
Short Radius
Elbow
5D Min
5D Min
5D
Min
5D
Min
Long Radius
Elbow
Long Radius
Elbow
Figure 9.8.19 Recommended suction piping near

pump, all pump types (D = pipe diameter)
The suction pipe size is usually a larger diameter than

the suction fitting on the pump. In such cases, a concentric or eccentric reducer is fitted to accommodate
the difference in pipe size. For horizontal suction piping, the flat side of an eccentric reducer shall be
located on the top. For vertical piping without bends
near the pump, a concentric reducer is
recommended.
9.8.4.3.1 Suction headers

A suction header, also called a suction manifold, is
required when two or more pumps are fed from one
common suction intake. Take-offs directly opposite
each other are not allowed. The maximum velocity
allowed in the suction header is 2.4 m/s (8.0 ft/s). If the
ratio of the take-off diameter to the header diameter is
equal to or greater than 0.3, then the minimum spacing between take-offs is 2 header diameters. If that
same ratio is less than 0.3, the minimum spacing
between take-offs is 3 take-off diameters. See Figure
9.8.22.
9.8.4.3.2 Submergence
For submergence of the suction header intake bell,
see Section 9.8.7 and Figure 9.8.18 for calculation
methods and datum references for S and D.
9.8.5 Model tests of intake structures

9.8.5.1
Need for model study
A properly conducted physical model study is a reliable method to identify unacceptable flow patterns at
the pump suction for given sump or piping designs and
to derive acceptable intake sump or piping designs.
Considering the cost for a model study, an evaluation
Figure 9.8.20 Examples of suction pipe fittings near pump

that require approval of the pump manufacturer
Figure 9.8.21 Recommended suction piping for double suction

pumps with the elbow in the same plane as the impeller shaft
22

is needed to determine if a model study is required. A
physical hydraulic model study shall be conducted for
pump intakes with one or more of the following features:
Sump or piping geometry (bay width, bell clearances, side wall angles, bottom slopes, distance
from obstructions, the bell diameter or piping
changes, etc.) that deviates from this design
standard.
Non-uniform or non-symmetric approach flow to

the pump sump exists (e.g., intake from a significant cross-flow, use of dual flow or drum screens,
or a short radius pipe bend near the pump suction,
etc.).
The pumps have flows greater than 2520 l/s

(40,000 gpm) per pump or the total station flow
with all pumps running would be greater than
6310 l/s (100,000 gpm).
The pumps of an open bottom barrel or riser

arrangement have flows greater than 315 l/s (5000
gpm) per pump (see Section 9.8.2.6).
Proper pump operation is critical and pump repair,

remediation of a poor design, and the impacts of
inadequate performance or pump failure all
together would cost more than ten times the cost
of a model study.
When evaluating the indirect impacts of inadequate

performance or pump failures, the probability of failure
may be considered, such as by comparing the proposed intake design to other intakes of essentially
identical design and approach flow which operate successfully. The model study shall be conducted by a
hydraulic laboratory using personnel that have experience in modeling pump intakes.
9.8.5.2
Model objectives
Adverse hydraulic conditions that can affect pump performance include: free and sub-surface vortices, swirl
approaching the pump impeller, flow separation at the
pump bell, and a non-uniform axial velocity distribution
at the suction.
Free-surface vortices are detrimental when their core
is strong enough to cause a (localized) low pressure at
the impeller and because a vortex core implies a rotating rather than a radial flow pattern. Sub-surface vortices also have low core pressures and are closer to the
impeller. Strong vortex cores may induce fluctuating
forces on the impeller and cavitation. Sub-surface vortices with a dry-pit suction inlet are not of concern if
the vortex core and the associated swirling flow dissipate well before reaching the pump suction flange.
Pre-swirl in the flow entering the pump exists if a tangential component of velocity is present in addition to
the axial component. Swirl alters the inlet velocity vector at the impeller vanes, resulting in undesired
changes in pump performance characteristics, including potential vibration.
L1
L1
L1
PUMP FLANGE
PUMP FLANGE
L2
FLOW DISTURBING
FITTING
(IF USED)
D2
D2
L2
D1
D2
D2/D1
L1
L2
> 0.3
> 2D1
> 5D2
< 0.3
> 3D2
> 5D2
D2
Figure 9.8.22 Suction header design options

23

A reasonably uniform axial velocity distribution in the
suction flow (approaching the impeller) is assumed in
the pump design, and non-uniformity of the axial
velocity may cause uneven loading of the impeller and
bearings.
A properly conducted physical model study can be
used to derive remedial measures, if necessary, to
alleviate these undesirable flow conditions due to the
approach upstream from the pump impeller. The typical hydraulic model study is not intended to investigate
flow patterns induced by the pump itself or the flow
patterns within the pump. The objective of a model
study is to ensure that the final sump or piping design
generates favorable flow conditions at the inlet to the
pump.
9.8.5.3
Model similitude and scale selection
Models involving a free surface are operated using

Froude similarity since the flow process is controlled
by gravity and inertial forces. The Froude number, representing the ratio of inertial to gravitational forces, can
be defined for pump intakes as:
F = u/(gL)0.5
flow pattern in the vicinity of the intake. Also, the model

shall be large enough to allow visual observations of
flow patterns, accurate measurements of swirl and
velocity distribution, and sufficient dimensional control.
Realizing that larger models, though more accurate
and reliable, are more expensive, a balancing of these
factors is used in selecting a model scale. However,
the scale selection based on vortex similitude considerations, discussed below, is a requirement to avoid
scale effects and unreliable test results.
Fluid motions involving vortex formation have been
studied by several investigators (Anwar, H.O. et al.,
1978; Hecker, G.E., 1981; Padmanabhan, M. and
Hecker, G.E., 1984; Knauss, J., 1987). It can be shown
by the principles of dimensional analysis that such flow
conditions at an intake are governed by the following
dimensionless parameters:
uD/, u/(gD)0.5, D/S, uD/, and u 2D/(/)
Where:
u =
average axial velocity (e.g., at the bell

entrance)
circulation of the flow
(9.8.5-1)
Where:
D =
diameter (of the bell entrance)
average axial velocity (such as in the suction

bell)
S =
submergence (at the bell entrance)
g =
gravitational acceleration
kinematic viscosity of the liquid
L =
a characteristic length (usually bell diameter or submergence)
g =
acceleration due to gravity
surface tension of liquid/air interface
liquid density
u =
The choice of parameter used for velocity and length is

not critical, but the same parameter must be used in
the model and prototype when determining the Froude
number.
For similarity of flow patterns, the Froude number shall
be equal in model and prototype:
Fr = Fm /Fp = 1
(9.8.5-2)
where m, p, and r denote model, prototype, and the

ratio between model and prototype parameters,
respectively.
In modeling a pump intake to study the potential formation of vortices, it is important to select a reasonably large geometric scale to minimize viscous and
surface tension scale effects, and to reproduce the
The influence of viscous effects is defined by the

parameter uD/ = R, the Reynolds number, and surface tension effects are indicated by u2D/(/) = We,
the Weber number. Based on the available literature,
the influence of viscous forces and surface tension on
vortexing may be negligible if the values of R and We
in the model fall above 3 104 and 120, respectively,
(Daggett, L., and Keulegan, G.H., 1974; Jain, A.K. et
al., 1978).
With negligible viscous and surface tension effects,
dynamic similarity is obtained by equating the parameters uD/, u/(gD)0.5, and D/S in the model and prototype. An undistorted geometrically scaled Froude
model satisfies this condition, provided the approach
24

flow pattern in the vicinity of the sump, which governs
the circulation, , is properly simulated.
Based on the above similitude considerations and
including a safety factor of 2 to ensure minimum scale
effects, the model geometric scale shall be chosen so
that the model bell entrance Reynolds number and
Weber number are above 6 104 and 240, respectively, for the test conditions based on Froude similitude. No specific geometric scale ratio is
recommended, but the resulting dimensionless numbers must meet these minimum values. For practicality
in observing flow patterns and obtaining accurate
measurements, the model scale shall yield a bay width
of at least 300 mm (12 inches), a minimum liquid depth
of at least 150 mm (6 inches), and a pump throat or
suction diameter of at least 80 mm (3 inches) in the
model.
In a model of geometric scale Lr, with the model operated based on Froude scaling, the velocity, flow, and
time scales are, respectively:
Vr = Vm /Vp = Lr0.5
(9.8.5-3)
Qr = Qm /Qp = Lr2 Vr = Lr2.5
(9.8.5-4)
Tr = Tm /Tp = Lr /Vr = Lr 0.5
(9.8.5-5)
Even though no scale effect of any significance is

probable in models with geometric scales selected as
described above, as a conservative procedure conforming to common practice, a few tests for the final
design of a free surface intake shall be conducted at
1.5 times the Froude scaled flows, keeping the submergence at the geometrically scaled values. By this
procedure, the circulation contributing to vortices
would presumably be increased, resulting in a conservative prediction of (stronger) vortices. Tests at prototype velocities are not recommended, as this will
distort approach flow patterns and unduly exaggerate
flow disturbances (e.g., vortices) in the model.
Models of closed conduit piping systems leading to a
pump suction are not operated based on Froude similitude, but need to have a sufficiently high pipe Reynolds number, R = uDP/, such that flow patterns are
correctly scaled. Based on available data on the variation of loss coefficients and swirl with Reynolds number, a minimum value of 1 105 is recommended for
the Reynolds number at the pump suction.
9.8.5.4
Model scope
Selection of the model boundary is extremely important for proper simulation of flow patterns at the pump.
As the approach flow non-uniformities contribute significantly to the circulation causing pre-swirl and vortices, a sufficient area of the approach geometry or
length of piping has to be modeled, including any
channel or piping transitions, bends, bottom slope
changes, control gates, expansions and any significant
cross-flow past the intake.
All pertinent sump structures or piping features affecting the flow, such as screens and blockage due to their
structural features, trash racks, dividing walls, columns, curtain walls, flow distributors, and piping transitions must be modeled. Special care should be taken
in modeling screens; the screen head loss coefficient
in the model shall be the same as in the prototype.
The head loss coefficient is a function of the screen
Reynolds number, the percent open area, and the
screen (wire) geometry. Scaling of the prototype
screen wire diameter and mesh size to the selected
model geometric scale may be impractical and
improper due to the resulting low model Reynolds
number. In some cases, a model could use the same
screen as the prototype to allow equal loss coefficients. Scaling of trash racks bars may also be impractical and lead to insufficient model bar Reynolds
number. Fewer bars producing the same total blockage and the same flow guidance effect (bar to space
aspect ratio) may be more appropriate.
The inside geometry of the bell up to the bell throat
(section of maximum velocity) shall be scaled, including any hub located between the bell entrance and the
throat. The bell should be modeled of clear plastic or
smooth fiberglass, the former being preferred for flow
visualization. The outside shape of the bell may be
approximated except in the case of multi-stage pumps,
in which case the external shape may affect flow patterns approaching the inlet bell. The impeller is not
included in hydraulic models, as the objective is to
evaluate the effect of the intake design on flow patterns approaching the impeller. A straight pipe equal to
the throat diameter or pump suction diameter shall
extend at least five diameters downstream from the
throat or pump suction.
For free surface intakes, the model shall provide up to
1.5 times the Froude scaled maximum flow per pump
to evaluate potential scale effects on free surface vortices, as discussed above, and be deep enough to
cover the range of scaled submergence.
25

9.8.5.5
Instrumentation and measuring techniques
Unless agreed upon circumstances indicate otherwise,

the following measurements shall be made. The extent
of the measurements is summarized in Section
9.8.5.7, Test Plan, below.
Flow: The outflow from each simulated pump shall be
measured with flow meters. If an orifice or venturi
meter conforming to ASME standards is used, the
meter need not be calibrated. The accuracy of the flow
measurement shall be within 2% of the actual flow
rate.
Liquid Level: Liquid surface elevations shall be measured using any type of liquid level indicator accurate
to at least 3 mm (0.01 ft) in the model.
Vortex
Type
Vortex
Type
Surface swirl
Dye core to intake:

coherent swirl
throughout
water column
Free Surface Vortices: To evaluate the strength of vortices at pump intakes systematically, the vortex
strength scale varying from a surface swirl or dimple to
an air core vortex, shown in Figure 9.8.23A, shall be
used. Vortex types are identified in the model by visual
observations with the help of dye and artificial debris,
and identification of a coherent dye core to the pump
bell or pump suction flange is important. Vortices are
usually unsteady in strength and intermittent in occurrence. Hence, an indication of the persistence of varying vortex strengths (types) shall be obtained through
observations made at short intervals in the model
(e.g., every 15 seconds) for at least 10 minutes, so that
a vortex type versus frequency evaluation can be
made and accurate average and maximum vortex
types may be determined. Such detailed vortex observations are needed only if coherent dye core (or stronger) vortices exist for any test. Photographic or video
documentation of vortices is recommended.
Surface dimple
coherent swirl
Vortex pulling
floating trash
but not air
Trash
Vortex pulling air

bubbles to intake
Full air core

to intake
A. FREE SURFACE VORTICES
1 Swirl
2 Dye core
3 Air core or
bubbles
B. SUB-SURFACE VORTICES
Figure 9.8.23 Classification of free surface and sub-surface vortices

26

Sub-surface Vortices: Sub-surface vortices usually terminate at the sump floor and walls, and may be visible
only when dye is injected near the vortex core. The
classification of sub-surface vortices, given in Figure
9.8.23B shall be used. The possible existence of subsurface vortices must be explored by dye injection at
all locations on the wall and floor around the suction
bell where a vortex may form, and documentation of
persistence shall be made, as for free surface vortices.
Pre-Swirl: Visual observations of the orientation of
eight or more equally spaced yarns mounted to form a
circle equal to the (outer) bell diameter and originating
about one half the bell floor clearance are useful (but
not required) to evaluate qualitatively any pre-swirl at
the bell entrance. The yarns shall be one half the bellto-floor clearance in length.
Swirl in the Suction Pipe: The intensity of flow rotation
shall be measured using a swirl meter, see Figure
9.8.24, located about four suction pipe diameters
downstream from the bell or pump suction. The swirl
meter shall consist of a straight vaned propeller with
four vanes mounted on a shaft with low friction bearings. The tip to tip vane diameter is 75% of the pipe
diameter and the vane length (in the flow direction) is
equal to 0.6 pipe diameters. The revolutions per unit
time of the swirl meter are used to calculate a swirl
angle, , which is indicative of the intensity of flow
rotation.
SWIRL METER
(with lowfriction
bearings)
0.6d
0.75d
4d
(approx)
VELOCITY
TRAVERSE
= tan-1(dn/u)
(9.8.5-6)
Where:
u =
average axial velocity at the swirl meter
d =
diameter of the pipe at the swirl meter
n =
revolutions/second of the swirl meter
Flow swirl is generally unsteady, both in direction of

rotation and speed of rotation. Therefore, swirl meter
readings shall be obtained continuously; for example,
readings during consecutive intervals of 10 to 30 seconds, covering a period of at least 10 minutes in the
model. Swirl meter rotation direction shall also be
noted for each short duration. The maximum short
duration swirl angle and an average swirl angle shall
be calculated from the swirl meter rotations (see
Acceptance Criteria below). Swirl at a dry-pit suction
inlet is not of concern if the swirl dissipates before
reaching the pump suction flange.
Velocity Profiles: Cross-sectional velocity profiles of
the approach flow may be obtained using a propeller
meter or other suitable device at a sufficient number of
measuring points to define any practical skewness in
the approach flow. The cross section location shall be
selected to be representative of the approaching flow
prior to being influenced by the pump, such as at a distance of two intake widths upstream from the pump
centerline. Such measurements are in themselves not
critical or required, but allow a better understanding of
how the approach flow may be contributing to other
flow irregularities and what type of remedial devices
may be effective.
Velocity traverses along at least two perpendicular
axes at the throat of the model suction bell or at the
plane of the pump suction in a piping system shall be
obtained for the final design using a pitot-static tube or
other suitable instrument capable of determining the
axial velocity component with a repeatability of 2% or
better. To allow velocity fluctuations to be properly
measured and recorded versus time, care should be
taken that no unnecessary physical or electronic
damping is introduced. The angularity of the actual
velocity vector relative to the axis of the pump or suction piping shall be observed at three or more locations with dye or strings to ensure that there are no
large deviations from axial flow.
FLOW
D
Figure 9.8.24 Typical swirl meter

27

9.8.5.6
Acceptance criteria
The acceptance criteria for the model test of the final

design shall be the following:
Free surface and sub-surface vortices entering the

pump must be less severe than vortices with
coherent (dye) cores (free surface vortices of Type
3 and sub-surface vortices of Type 2 in Figure
9.8.23). Dye core vortices may be acceptable only
if they occur for less than 10% of the time or only
for infrequent pump operating conditions.
Swirl angles, both the short-term (10 to 30 second

model) maximum and the long-term (10 minute
model) average indicated by the swirl meter rotation, must be less than 5 degrees. Maximum
short-term (10 to 30 second model) swirl angles
up to 7 degrees may be acceptable, only if they
occur less than 10% of the time or for infrequent
pump operating conditions. The swirl meter rotation should be reasonably steady, with no abrupt
changes in direction when rotating near the maximum allowable rate (angle).
Time-averaged velocities at points in the throat of

the bell or at the pump suction in a piping system
shall be within 10% of the cross-sectional area
average velocity. Time-varying fluctuations at a
point shall produce a standard deviation from the
time-averaged signal of less than 10%.
For the special case of pumps with double suction

impellers, the distribution of flow at the pump suction flange shall provide equal flows to each side
of the pump within 3% of the total pump flow.
9.8.5.7
Test plan
Operating conditions to be tested shall include the

minimum, intermediate and maximum liquid levels and
flows. If there are multiple pumps, all possible combinations of operating conditions should be included.
Even though vortices are probably most severe at
maximum flows and minimum submergence, there are
instances where stronger vortices may occur at higher
liquid levels and lower flows, perhaps due to less
turbulence.
Vortex observations and swirl measurements shall be
made for all tests. Axial velocity measurements at the
bell throat or suction inlet for each pump in the model
are recommended at least for the one test indicating
the maximum swirl angle for the final design. Still-
photographic documentation of typical tests showing

vortexing or other flow problems shall be made.
The initial design shall be tested first to identify any
hydraulic problems. If any objectionable flow problems
are indicated, modifications to the intake or piping
shall be made to obtain satisfactory hydraulic performance. Modifications may be derived using one or two
selected test conditions indicating the most objectionable performance.
Practical aspects of installing the modifications should
be considered. The performance of the final modified
design shall be documented for all operating conditions.
If any of the tests show unfavorable flow conditions,
further revisions to the remedial devices shall be
made. For intakes with a free surface, most tests shall
be at Froude scaled flows; however, a few selected
tests for the final design shall be repeated at 1.5 times
the Froude scaled flows to compensate for any possible scale effects on free-surface vortices. No velocity
measurements shall be conducted at higher than
Froude-scaled flows. It is recommended that representative tests of the final design be witnessed by the
user, the pump manufacturer, and the station designer.
9.8.5.8
Report preparation
The final report of the model study shall include: intake

or piping design, model description, scaling and similitude criteria, instrumentation, test procedure, results
(data tabulated and plotted), recommended modifications and conclusions. The report shall contain photographs of the model showing the initial and final
designs, drawings of any recommended modifications,
and photographs of relevant flow conditions identified
with dye or other tracers. A brief video tape of typical flow
problems observed during the tests is recommended.
9.8.6 Inlet bell design diameter (D)

Designing a sump to achieve favorable inflow to the
pump or suction pipe bell requires control of various
sump dimensions relative to the size of the bell. For
example, the clearance from the bell to the sump floor
and side walls and the distance to various upstream
intake features is controlled in these standards by
expressing such distances in multiples of the pump or
inlet bell diameter. Such standardization of conditions
leading to, and around, the inlet bell reduces the probability that strong submerged vortices or excessive
pre-swirl will occur. Also, the required minimum submergence to prevent strong free-surface vortices is
related to the inlet bell (or pipe) diameter (see Section
9.8.7).
28

If the pump or pipe suction inlet diameter D has been
selected prior to designing the sump, then the sump
design process (see Table 9.8.2) can proceed without
using the information provided in this section. However, only the use of inlet sizes within the guidelines
provided in this section will produce sump dimensions
that comply with these standards. Use of bell or inlet
diameters outside the range recommended herein will
also comply with these standards if a hydraulic study is
conducted in accordance with Section 9.8.5 to confirm
acceptable inflow conditions as required by Section
9.8.5.6.
If the pump (or pipe suction inlet) has not been
selected, it is recommended that the inlet bell diameter
be chosen based on achieving the bell inlet velocity
that experience indicates provides acceptable inflow
conditions to the pump. The bell inlet velocity is
defined as the flow through the bell (i.e., the pump
flow) divided by the area of the bell, using the outside
diameter of the bell. Information on acceptable average bell inlet diameter velocities is provided in Figure
9.8.25, based on a survey of inlet bell diameters used
by pump vendors and industry experience. The solid
line represents the average pump bell diameter from
the survey, corresponding to a bell inlet velocity of
1.7 m/s (5.5 ft/s). Using industry experience and about
one standard deviation of the range of inlet bell sizes
which may be provided by pump vendors for a given
flow indicates that the recommended inlet bell velocity,
V, may vary as follows:
a) for flows less than 315 l/s (5000 gpm), the inlet bell
(or inlet pipe) velocity shall be 0.6 to 2.7 m/s (2.0
to 9.0 ft/s)
b) for flows equal to or greater than 315 l/s (5000
gpm), but less than 1260 l/s (20,000 gpm), the
velocity shall be 0.9 to 2.4 m/s (3.0 to 8.0 ft/s)
c) for flows equal to or greater than 1260 l/s (20,000
gpm), the velocity shall be 1.2 to 2.1 m/s (4.0 to
7.0 ft/s).
These permissible ranges in inlet bell velocity are given
in Table 9.8.3 and are also shown on Figure 9.8.25 in
terms of the recommended bell diameter range for a
given flow per pump or inlet. Although the survey indicated that pumps with bells outside this range may be
proposed, experience indicates that inlet bell (or inlet
pipe) velocities higher than the recommended range
are likely to cause hydraulic problems. Use of lower
velocities would produce unnecessarily large pump
bells (or inlet pipes) and, therefore, sumps.
For sump design prior to pump selection, the recommended inlet bell diameter shown on Figure 9.8.25
shall be used. This recommended bell diameter is
based on an inlet velocity of 1.7 m/s (5.5 ft/s). This process will allow the sump design to proceed. When the
pump is specified and selected, the outside diameter
of its bell (without added horizontal rings or umbrellas, sometimes used as vortex suppressor) shall fall
within the acceptable range to produce an inlet velocity
within the limits indicated in Table 9.8.3. An inlet bell
diameter within this range will produce a sump geometry that complies with these standards on minimum
submergence and sump dimensions, without changing
the sump design based on the recommended inlet bell
diameter.
9.8.7 Required submergence for minimizing

surface vortices
9.8.7.1
Introduction
This section concerns the recommended minimum

submergence of a pump bell or pipe intake to reduce
the probability that strong free-surface air core vortices
will occur. Submerged vortices are not believed to be
related to submergence and are not considered in this
section. If a submergence greater than recommended
herein is needed to provide the required NPSH for the
pump, that greater submergence would govern and
must be used.
Approach-flow skewness and the resulting circulation
have a controlling influence on free-surface vortices in
spite of adequate submergence. Due to the inability to
predict and quantify approach flow characteristics for
each particular case without resorting to hydraulic
model studies, and the lack of available correlation
between such characteristics and vortex strength, the
recommended minimum submergence given herein is
for a reasonably uniform approach flow to the pump
suction bell or pipe inlet. Highly non-uniform (skewed)
approach flows will require the application of vortex
suppression devices (not part of this standard) such
as those offered for information in Appendix A. Such
devices can be more practical in suppressing vortices
than increased submergence.
Even for constant flows, vortices are not steady in
position or strength, usually forming and dissipating
sporadically. This is due to the random nature by which
eddies merge to form coherent circulation around a filament and by which turbulence becomes sufficient in
intensity to disrupt the flow pattern. For these reasons,
the strength of vortices versus time shall be observed
to obtain an average and a maximum vortex type for
29

given conditions, and this process is enhanced by
defining a measure of vortex strength, as illustrated in
Figure 9.8.23.
9.8.7.2
VT = (FD, N, S/D, G)
Where:
Controlling parameters
VT =
By use of dimensional analysis, it may be shown that a

given vortex type, VT, is a function of various dimensionless parameters.
=
FD =
vortex type (strength and persistence)

a function
Froude No. = V/(gD)0.5
4.5
4.0
V = 1.7 m/s
Recommended
D = Bell Design Dia., meters
3.5
V = 1.2 m/s
3.0
2.5
V = 2.1 m/s
2.0
1.5
1.0
0.5
0
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
10,000 12,000 14,000
16,000 18,000
20,000
Q = Flow, liters/sec
1.4
1.2
D = Bell Design Dia., meters
V = 0.9 m/s
V = 1.7 m/s
Recommended
1.0
0.8
V = 0.6 m/s
V = 2.4 m/s
0.6
0.4
V = 2.7 m/s
0.2
0.0
0
200
400
600
800
1,000
1,200
V = Average bell velocity, m/s
Q = flow, l/s
D = Outside Bell Diameter, m = [Q/(785V)]0.5
Figure 9.8.25A Recommended inlet bell design diameter (OD)

30
1,400

N =
Circulation No., D/Q, of approach flow
Circulation (2rVt for concentric flow about

a point with a tangential velocity Vt at
radius r)
S =
Submergence
D =
Diameter of inlet or bell
V =
Velocity at inlet (= 4Q/D 2)
G =
Geometry
g =
Gravitation acceleration
Q =
Flow
180
D = Bell Design Dia., inches
160
V = 5.5 ft/s
Recommended
140
120
V = 4.0 ft/s
100
80
V = 7.0 ft/s
60
40
20
0
50,000
100,000
150,000
200,000
250,000
300,000
Q = Flow, gpm
60
D = Bell Design Dia., inches
50
V = 5.5 ft/s
Recommended
V = 3.0 ft/s
40
V = 2.0 ft/s
30
V = 8.0 ft/s
20
10
V = 9.0 ft/s
0
0
2,000
4,000
V = Average bell velocity, ft/s
6,000
8,000
10,000 12,000
Q = Flow, gpm
14,000
16,000
18,000
20,000
Q = flow, gpm D = Outside Bell Diameter, inches = (0.409Q/V)0.5
Figure 9.8.25B Recommended inlet bell design diameter (OD) (US units)
31

For a given geometry and approach flow pattern, the
vortex strength would only vary with the remaining
parameters, that is
range of inlet bell diameters (and velocities) at a given

flow recommended in Section 9.8.6 allows some variation in the Froude number. Thus, Equation 9.8.7-1 is recommended, rather than a fixed relative submergence.
VT = (FD, S/D)
9.8.7.3
This formula indicates that a plot of S/D vs. FD would
contain a family of curves, each representing different
values of vortex strength, VT (refer to Figure 9.8.23A).
Selection of one vortex strength of concern, such as a
vortex without air entrainment, would yield a unique
relationship between S/D and FD which corresponds
to that vortex, all for a given geometry and approach
flow pattern (circulation).
Application considerations
For a given flow, Q, an inlet diameter may be selected

in accordance with Section 9.8.6. The recommended
minimum submergence for that diameter D would be
given by
Metric:
S =
For typical intake geometry and relatively uniform

approach flow (i.e., low values of the circulation
parameter), data and experience suggests that the following recommended relationship between submergence and the Froude number corresponds to an
acceptable vortex strength (Hecker, G.E.,1987).
S/D = 1.0 + 2.3FD
D =
FD =
V =
or
S =
D + Q/D1.5/1069
NOTE: S is in meters for g = 9.8 m/sec2, Q in l/s,

and D in meters.
(9.8.7-1)
US units:
Where:
S =
1.0D + 2.3[Q/(0.785D2)/(gD)0.5]D
S = 1.0D + 2.3[(12 0.409Q/D2)/(12gD)0.5]D

Submergence above a horizontally oriented inlet plane (vertical inlet pipe) or
above the centerline of a vertically oriented
inlet plane (horizontal inlet pipe)
Diameter of inlet opening (equivalent diameter for non-circular openings, giving the
same area as a circular opening)
Froude No. =
V/(gD)0.5
Velocity at inlet face = Flow/Area
This equation indicates that one diameter of submergence must be provided, even at negligible inlet flows
or velocities, and that the relative submergence, S/D,
increases from that value as the inlet velocity
increases. This is reasonable, since the inlet velocity
(flow) provides the energy to cause a potentially
greater vortex strength if the relative submergence
were not increased.
The relative submergence would only be constant if
the Froude number for various inlets were constant.
Information collected by the Hydraulic Institute (not
included herein) shows that the average inlet Froude
number for bells of typical pump applications is not
constant, and that a range of Froude numbers would
be possible at a given design flow. Even the restricted
or
S =
D + 0.574Q/D1.5
NOTE: S is in inches for g = 32.2 ft/sec2, Q in gpm,

and D in inches.
The above illustrates that the actual submergence
depends on the selection of D for a given flow. As D
increases, the first term causes an increase in submergence, whereas the second term causes a
decrease. These opposing trends imply a minimum
value of S at some D for a given flow, and differentiating S with respect to D, allows determining that value.
However, for the range of recommended bell diameters in Section 9.8.6, the change of S with D for a given
flow is minimal, and D for pump bells should be
selected based on other considerations.
For the inlet bell design diameter recommended in
Section 9.8.6, the required minimum submergence for
reducing the severity of free-surface vortices is shown
on Figure 9.8.26. This figure also shows the recommended minimum submergence for the limits of the
bell diameter that comply with these standards, see
Figure 9.8.25 and Table 9.8.3. Due to the small
change in submergence, no change in submergence
from that calculated with the recommended bell
32
6.5
S = Bell Submergence, meters
5.5
4.5
Bell D for 1.7 m/s

Recommended
Bell D for 2.1 m/s
3.5
Bell D for 1.2 m/s
2.5
1.5
0
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
10,000 12,000
14,000
16,000
18,000
20,000
2.5
S = Bell Submergence, meters
Bell D for 2.4 m/s

2.0
Bell D for 0.9 m/s
Bell D for 2.7 m/s
1.5
Bell D for 1.7 m/s

Recommended
1.0
Bell D for 0.6 m/s
0.5
0.0
0
200
400
600
800
1,000
1,200
1,400
Figure 9.8.26A Recommended minimum submergence to minimize free surface vortices
33
S = Bell Submergence, inches
250
200
Bell D for 7.0 ft/s
Bell D for 5.5 ft/s

Recommended
150
100
Bell D for 4.0 ft/s
50
0
50,000
100,000
150,000
200,000
250,000
300,000
Q = Flow, gpm
100
Bell D for 8.0 ft/s
S = Bell Submergence, inches
80
Bell D for 3.0 ft/s
Bell D for 9.0 ft/s

60
Bell D for 5.5 ft/s
Recommended
40
Bell D for 2.0 ft/s
20
0
0
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000 10,000 12,000

Q = Flow, gpm
14,000
16,000
18,000
20,000
Figure 9.8.26B Recommended minimum submergence to minimize free surface vortices (US units)
34

diameter is needed, as long as the final selected bell
diameter is within the limits that comply with these
standards.
Terms
9.8.8 Glossary and nomenclature

9.8.8.1
Glossary
Definition
Active storage
Liquid stored between low and high liquid levels in the wet well and in upstream piping.
Air Core Vortex
A vortex strong enough to form an elongated core of air (see type 6, Figure 9.8.23.
Anti-Rotation Baffle
Device used to inhibit the rotation of fluid at or near the suction.
Approach Channel
A structure that directs the flow to the pump.
Approach pipe
A pipe laid at a gradient sufficient to cause super-critical flow and used to contain a portion of the active storage requirement for a constant speed pump.
Axial Flow (propeller)

Pump
High flow rate/low head, high specific speed pump.
Backwall
A vertical surface behind the inlet to a suction fitting.
Backwall Clearance
The distance between the backwall and the point of closest approach of the suction fitting.
Backwall Splitter
A device formed or fabricated and attached to the backwall that guides the movement of
flow at or near a suction.
Baffles
Obstructions that are arranged to provide a more uniform flow at the approach to a
pump or suction inlet.
Barrel Suction
Inlet formed by a can encompassing and providing for the suction of a pump.
Bay
A portion of an intake structure configured for the installation of one pump.
Bell
The entrance to an axial flow pump or the flared opening leading to pump inlet piping.
Benching
A type of fillet used to minimize stagnant zones by creating a sloping transition between
vertical and horizontal surfaces. Benching is applied between sump walls and the
sump bottom, or between the back wall and the sump bottom. It is also referred to as
fillets, such as side wall fillets and back wall fillets.
Cavitation
Formation and implosion of liquid vapor bubbles caused by low local pressures.
Cell
A structure intended to confine the liquid approaching the intake to a pump (see Bay).
Check Valve
Piping component used to prevent reverse flow.
Circular Well
A suction chamber circular in shape in plan.
Cone
See Floor Cone.
Critical Depth
The liquid depth which has the minimum specific energy for a given flow, corresponding
to a Froude Number equal to one (1) .
Curtain Wall
A near vertical plate or wall located in an intake that extends below the normal low liquid
level to suppress vortices.
Double Suction Impeller
An impeller provided with a single suction connection that separates and conveys the
fluid to two suction areas.
Dry-Pit Suction
Suction from a well that conveys fluid to a pump located in a non-wetted environment.
Dual Flow Screens
Screening that provides two flow paths for liquid, not in-line with the main flow.
Eddy
A local rotational flow pattern disturbing regular streamlines (a vortex).
End Suction Pump
A pump that has a suction flange coaxial to the impeller shaft and the pump volute is
usually not submerged in the sump.
Fillet
A triangular element at the vertex of two surfaces to guide the flow.
Floor Clearance
The distance between the floor and the suction bell or opening.
Floor Cone
A conical fixture placed below the suction between the floor and the suction bell.
35

Terms
Definition
Floor Vane
A vertical plate aligned with the approach flow and centered under the suction bell.
Flow Straighter
Any device installed to provide more uniform flow.
Foot Valve
Any device located in the suction of a pump that is designed to keep the line flooded/
primed.
Forebay
The region of an intake before individual partitioning of flow into individual suctions or
intake bays.
Formed Suction
Intake
A shaped suction inlet that directs the flow in a particular pattern into the pump suction.
Free Surface Flow
Open channel or unconfined flow.
Froude Number
A dimensionless grouping of parameters used in flow analysis and modeling that indicates the relative influence of inertial compared to gravitational forces (see Equation
9.8.5-1).
Guide Vanes
Devices used in the suction approach that directs the flow in an optimal manner.
Hydraulic Jump
A turbulent sudden increase in liquid depth as the flow decelerates from super-critical to
sub-critical flow.
Hydrocone
See Floor Cone.
Intake
The structure or piping system used to conduct fluid to the pump suction.
Intake Velocity
The average or bulk velocity of the flow in an intake.
Mixer
A mechanical device that produces an axial propeller jet, often used for maintaining suspension of solids-bearing liquids in wet wells and tanks.
Mixing Nozzles
Nozzles attached to the pump volute or the discharge pipe designed to mix solids in a
wet well.
Multiplex Pumping
Pump installations where sets of pumps are used, such as duplex (two) or triplex
(three).
NPSHR
The amount of suction head, over vapor pressure, required to prevent more than a 3%
loss in total head from the first stage impeller at a specific flow rate.
Ogee Ramp
or Spillway
The gradual change in shape/slope in the floor of an intake, shaped like an elongated
letter S.
Perforated Baffles
Plate device with specifically sized openings, either vertical or horizontal, applied to produce uniform approach velocity.
Physical Hydraulic
Model
A reduced-scale replicate of the geometry that controls approach flow patterns operated
according to certain similitude laws for flow, velocity and time.
Piping Reducer
Any change in pipe size, or line area, that results in either an increase or decrease in
velocity.
Pre-swirl
Rotation of the flow at the pump suction due to the approach flow patterns.
Pump
A device used to convey fluid from a low-energy level to a higher one.
Pump Column
Part of the pump assembly that both connects the pump to the discharge head and nozzle and conveys fluid into the system.
Pump Suction Bell
A part of the pump that provides an opening to convey flow into the suction eye of the
impeller.
Rectangular Wet Well
Any wet well in which pumps are arranged along a wall opposite the influent conduit.
The shape may be square, rectangular or trapezoidal.
Reynolds Number
A dimensionless grouping of parameters used in flow analysis and modeling that indicates the relative influence of inertial compared to viscous forces (see Section
9.8.5.3).
36

Terms
Definition
Scale
The ratio between geometric characteristics of the model and prototype.
Scale Effect
The impact of reduced scale on the applicability of test results to a full-scale prototype.
Sediment
Settleable materials suspended in the flow.
Septicity
A condition in which stagnant domestic sewage turns septic due to a lack of oxygen.
Snoring
The condition that occurs when a pump is allowed to draw down the liquid level very
close to the pumps inlet. Snoring refers to the gurgling sound associated with continuous air entrainment.
Solids
Material suspended in the liquid.
Specific Energy
Pressure head plus velocity head referenced to the invert of a conduit.
Specific Speed
Equivalent to a dimensionless number, a high value denotes a high-flow low-head

pump while a low value denotes a low-flow high-head pump.
Soffit
Inside top of a pipe.
Sequent Depth
The depth of liquid following a hydraulic jump.
Submergence
The height of liquid level over the suction bell or pipe inlet.
Submersible Pump
A close coupled pump and drive unit designed for operation while immersed in the
pumped liquid.
Suction Bell Diameter
Overall OD of the suction connection at the entrance to a suction.
Suction Head
Pressure available at the pump suction, usually positive if the liquid level is at a higher
elevation than the pump suction.
Suction Lift
Negative pressure at the pump suction, usually a result of the liquid level being at a
lower elevation than the pump suction.
Suction Scoop
A device added to the suction to change the direction of flow. Refer to Formed Suction
Intake.
Suction Strainer
A device located at the inlet to either protect the pump or provide flow stability at the
suction.
Sump
A pump intake basin or wet well. See Forebay.
Swirl
Rotation of fluid around its mean, axial flow direction.
Swirl Angle
The angle formed by the axial and tangential (circumferential) components of a velocity
vector (see Equation 9.8.5-7).
Swirl Meter
A device with four flat vanes of zero pitch used to determine the extent of rotation in otherwise axial flow.
Trench Intake
An intake design that aligns the pump suctions in-line with, but below, the inflow. A type
of forebay.
Turning Vanes
Devices applied to the suction to alter the direction of flow.
Unconfined Suction/
Intake
Suction in a free flow field with no lateral physical boundaries.
Unitized Intake
A multiple pump intake with partitioned pump bays.
Vane
See Floor Vane.
Volute
The pump casing for a centrifugal type of pump, generally spiral or circular in shape.
Vortex
A well-defined swirling flow core from either the free surface or from a solid boundary to
the pump inlet (see Figure 9.8.23).
Vortex, Free Surface
A vortex that terminates at the free surface of a flow field.
Vortex, Subsurface
A vortex that terminates on the floor or side walls of an intake.
Wall Clearance
Dimensional distance between the suction and the nearest vertical surface.
37

Terms
Definition
Wastewater
Description of fluid that typically carries suspended waste material from domestic or
industrial sources.
Weber Number
A dimensionless grouping of parameters used in flow analysis and modeling that indicates the relative influence of inertial compared to surface tension forces (see Section 9.8.5.3).
Wet-Pit Suction
A suction with the pump fully wetted.
Wet Well
A pump intake basin or sump having a confined liquid volume with a free water surface
designed to hold liquid in temporary storage to even out variations between inflow
and outflow. See Forebay.
9.8.8.2
Nomenclature
Sym.
Definition
Distance from the pump inlet centerline to

the intake structure entrance
Fig. 9.8.1, Table 9.8.1
At
At
Empty area
Table C.1, Table C.2
Total area
Length of constricted bay section near the

pump inlet
Fig. 9.8.2, Table 9.8.1
Distance from the back wall to the pump

inlet bell centerline
Fig. 9.8.1, Table 9.8.1, Fig. 9.8.18
Distance between the inlet bell and floor
Fig. 9.8.1, Table 9.8.1, Fig. 9.8.18
Cb
Inlet bell or volute clearance for circular

pump stations
9.8.2.3.2.1, 9.8.2.3.2.4, Fig. 9.8.4, Fig. 9.8.5
Cf
Floor clearance on circular pump stations
9.8.2.3.2.1, 9.8.2.3.2.2, Fig. 9.8.4, Fig. 9.8.5
Cw
Wall clearance on circular pump stations
9.8.2.3.2.1, 9.8.2.3.2.3, Fig. 9.8.4, Fig. 9.8.5
Inlet bell diameter or inlet bell design

diameter
Foreword, 9.8.2.1.3, 9.8.2.1.4, Eq. 9.8.2.1-1,

Eq. 9.8.2.1-2, Fig. 9.8.1, Fig. 9.8.2, Table 9.8.1,
Table 9.8.2, 9.8.2.3.2.2, 9.8.2.3.2.3, 9.8.2.4.7,
9.8.2.4.8, 9.8.2.4.9, Fig. 9.8.6, Fig. 9.8.11, 9.8.2.7.2,
9.8.2.7.4, 9.8.3.2.3.1, 9.8.3.2.3.2, Fig. 9.8.13,
Fig. 9.8.14, 9.8.3.3.3, Fig. 9.8.17, 9.8.3.4.4.1,
Fig. 9.8.18, 9.8.5.3, 9.8.6, Table 9.8.3, Fig. 9.8.25,
9.8.7.2, Eq. 9.8.7-1, Fig. 9.8.26, Fig. A.10, Fig. A.11
Diameter of circle with area equivalent to

rectangular area at FSI entrance
9.8.2.2.3
Tank outlet fitting diameter
9.8.2.5.4, Fig. 9.8.9, 9.8.2.5.5
Turning vane inlet diameter
9.8.2.6.4, Fig. 9.8.10
Pipe diameter
Fig. 9.8.19
Vertical can riser diameter
Fig. 9.8.10
Can inside diameter
Fig. 9.8.11, Fig. 9.8.12
Diameter of suction header
Fig. 9.8.22
Diameter of suction header take-off pipe
Fig. 9.8.22
Inlet bell or volute diameter
9.8.2.3.2.1, 9.8.2.3.2.6, Fig. 9.8.4, Fig. 9.8.5
Well motor cooling shroud diameter
Fig. 9.8.12
D1
D1
D1
D2
Db
DM
Reference Location
38

Sym.
Dp
Ds
DT
Definition
Reference Location
Inside diameter of approach pipe
C-2, C-3, Table C.1, Table C.2
Sump diameter
9.8.2.3.2.1, 9.8.2.3.2.5, Fig. 9.8.4, Fig. 9.8.5
Theoretical diameter
9.8.2.6.6
Diameter at outlet of formed suction

intake
Fig. 9.8.3, Type 10 formed suction intake
Diameter of the pipe at the swirl meter
Eq. 9.8.5-7, Fig. 9.8.24
Energy grade line
C-3
Froude number
9.8.5.3, Eq. 9.8.5-1
FD
Froude number
Foreword, Fig. 9.8.1, Eq. 9.8.2.1-1, Eq. 9.8.2.1-2,

Table 9.8.1, 9.8.2.1.4, 9.8.2.2.3, 9.8.2.5.4, 9.8.2.7.4,
Fig. 9.8.13, Eq. 9.8.7-1, 9.8.7.2
Fr
Fm
Fp
Froude number ratio, Fm/Fp
9.8.5.3, Eq. 9.8.5-2
Froude number of model
9.8.5.3, Eq. 9.8.5-2
Froude number of prototype
9.8.5.3, Eq. 9.8.5-2
Geometry
9.8.7.2
Acceleration of gravity
9.8.2.1.4, Eq. 9.8.2.1-1, 9.8.2.5.4, 9.8.5.3, Eq. 9.8.5-1,

9.8.7.2, 9.8.7.3
Minimum liquid depth
Fig. 9.8.1, Fig. 9.8.2, Table 9.8.1, Fig. 9.8.18
Hf
Height of FSI
Fig. 9.8.3, 9.8.2.2.3, Fig. 9.8.7
Minimum height of constricted bay section

near the pump
Fig. 9.8.2, Table 9.8.1
Width of rectangular entrance for intake

suction piping
Fig. 9.8.18
A characteristic length (usually bell diameter or submergence)
9.8.5.3, Eq. 9.8.5-1
L1
L2
Distance between suction piping take-offs
Fig. 9.8.22
Distance from suction header or flow disturbing device to pump flange
Fig. 9.8.22
Lr
Lv
Geometric scale of model
Eq. 9.8.5-3, Eq. 9.8.5-4, Eq. 9.8.5-5
Characteristic length of a cubic cage type

vortex suppressor
A-6, Fig. A.12
Circulation number
9.8.7.2
Revolutions/second of the swirl meter
Eq. 9.8.5-6
Mannings n
C-2.2, Tables C.1 and C.2
Outside diameter of pump bell or inlet bell
Table 9.8.3
Flow
9.8.2.6.6, Table 9.8.3, Fig. 9.8.25, 9.8.7.2, 9.8.7.3,

Fig. 9.8.26, B-2, Eq. B-1
Flow scale in model
Eq. 9.8.5-4
Flow scale in prototype
Eq. 9.8.5-4
Flow scale ratio, model/prototype
Eq. 9.8.5-4
Inflow into sump or pump station
B-2, Eq. B-1, Eq. B-2, Eq. B-3
Flow rate for pump no. 1 or flow with one

pump running
B-2, Eq. B-2, Fig. B.2, B-3
EGL
OD
Q
Qm
Qp
Qr
Qin
Qp1
39

Sym.
Qp2
Definition
Reference Location
Flow with two pumps running
Fig. B.2, B-3
Reynolds number
9.8.5.3
Radius of curvature
Fig. 9.8.3, 9.8.3.2.3, Fig. 9.8.13
Radius of tangential velocity component
9.8.7.2
Minimum submergence depth
Foreword, Fig. 9.8.1, Eq. 9.8.2.1-2, 9.8.2.1.4,

Table 9.8.1, 9.8.2.2.3, Fig. 9.8.3, 9.8.2.3.2.1,
Fig. 9.8.4, Fig. 9.8.5, Fig. 9.8.6, Fig. 9.8.7, 9.8.2.5.4,
Fig. 9.8.8, Fig. 9.8.12, 9.8.2.7.4, Fig. 9.8.13,
Fig. 9.8.17, Fig. 9.8.18, 9.8.7.3, 9.8.7.2, 9.8.5,
Eq. 9.8.7-1, Fig. 9.8.26
Pump cycle time in minutes
B-2, Eq. B-1, Eq. B-2, B-3
Time scale of model
Eq. 9.8.5-5
Time scale of prototype
Eq. 9.8.5-5
Time scale ratio, model/prototype
Eq. 9.8.5-5
Average axial velocity (such as in the

suction bell)
9.8.5.3, Eq. 9.8.5-1
Average axial velocity at the swirl meter
Eq. 9.8.5-6
Velocity
Eq. 9.8.2.1-1, 9.8.2.1.4, 9.8.2.2.3, 9.8.2.5.4, 9.8.2.5.5,

Fig. 9.8.9, Fig. 9.8.10, 9.8.2.7.4, 9.8.6, Table 9.8.3,
Fig. 9.8.25, 9.8.7.2
Vol
Effective sump volume
B-2, Eq. B-1
Vol1
Vol2
Active sump volume for pump no. 1
B-2, Eq. B-2, B-3
Active sump volume for pump no. 2
B-3
Total active volume of sump
B-3
Vc
Vm
Vp
Vr
vt
Vx
Cross-flow velocity
Fig. 9.8.1, Table 9.8.1
Velocity scale in model
Eq. 9.8.5-3
Velocity scale in prototype
Eq. 9.8.5-3
Velocity scale ratio, model/prototype
Eq. 9.8.5-3, Eq. 9.8.5-4, Eq. 9.8.5-5
Tangential velocity
9.8.7.2
Pump bay velocity
Fig. 9.8.1, Table 9.8.1
VT
Vortex type
9.8.7.2
We
Weber number
9.8.5.3
Pump bay entrance width
Fig. 9.8.1, Table 9.8.1, Fig. 9.8.2, Fig. 9.8.18
Width of FSI
9.8.2.2.3, Fig. 9.8.3, Fig. 9.8.7
Constricted bay width near the pump
Fig. 9.8.2, Table 9.8.1
Pump bay length
Fig. 9.8.1, Table 9.8.1

traveling screen
9.8.2.1.4, Fig. 9.8.1, Table 9.8.1
Depth
Z1

diverging walls
Fig. 9.8.1, Table 9.8.1
Z2

sloping floor
Fig. 9.8.1, Table 9.8.1
Tm
Tp
Tr
VolTOT
40

Sym.
Definition
Reference Location
Angle of floor slope
Fig. 9.8.1, Table 9.8.1
Angle of wall divergence
9.8.2.1.4, Fig. 9.8.1,Table 9.8.1
Angle of side wall of trench
Fig. 9.8.13
A function
9.8.7.2
Liquid density
9.8.5.3
Circulation of the flow
9.8.5.3, 9.8.7.2
Kinematic viscosity of the liquid
9.8.5.3
Swirl angle
Eq. 9.8.5-6
Surface tension of liquid/air interface
9.8.5.3
Angle of divergence from constricted area

to bay walls
Fig. 9.8.2, Table 9.8.1
41
Appendix A
Remedial Measures for Problem Intakes
This appendix is not part of this standard, but is presented to help the user in considering factors beyond the standard sump design.
A-1
Introduction
The material presented in Appendix A is provided for

the convenience of the intake design engineer in correcting unfavorable hydraulic conditions of existing
intakes. None of the remedial measures described
herein are part of the standard intake design recommendations provided in Section 9.8. A portion of the
material in Appendix A transmits general experience
and knowledge gained over many years of improving
the hydraulics of intake structures, and such educational material may not include the specific recommendations appropriate for a standard. Corrections
described herein have been effective in the past, but
may or may not result in a significant improvement in
performance characteristics for a given set of sitespecific conditions. Other remedial fixes not provided
herein may also be effective, and a hydraulic model
test is needed to verify whether a given remedial
design feature results in acceptable flow conditions.
This is particularly true because adding a remedial
feature to solve one flow problem may have detrimental effects on other flow phenomena of concern.
Appendix A concentrates on rectangular intakes for
clear liquids, but the basic principles can be applied to
other types of intakes. The material is organized by the
general type of hydraulic problem in an upstream to
downstream direction, since proper upstream flow
conditions minimize downstream remedial changes.
A-2
Approach flow patterns
The characteristics of the flow approaching an intake

structure is one of the foremost considerations for the
designer. Unfortunately, local ambient flow patterns
are often difficult and expensive to characterize. Even
if known, conditions are generally unique, frequently
complex, so it is difficult to predict the effects of a given
set of flow conditions upstream from an intake structure on flow patterns in the immediate vicinity of a
pump suction.
When determining direction and distribution of flow at

the entrance to a pump intake structure, the following
must be considered:
The orientation of the structure relative to the body

of supply liquid
Whether the structure is recessed from, flush with,

or protrudes beyond the boundaries of the body of
supply liquid
Strength of currents in the body of supply liquid perpendicular to the direction of approach to the pumps
The number of pumps required and their anticipated operating combinations
Velocity profiles entering pump bays can be skewed,

regardless of whether cross-currents are present. Several typical approach flow conditions are shown in Figure A.1 for rectangular intake structures withdrawing
flow from both moving bodies of liquid and stationary
reservoirs. Figure A.2 shows several typical approach
flow conditions for different combinations of pumps
operating in a single intake structure.
The ideal conditions, and the assumptions upon which
the geometry and dimensions recommended for rectangular intake structures in this section are based, are
that the structure draws flow so that there are negligible ambient currents (cross-flows) in the vicinity of the
intake structure that create asymmetrical flow patterns
approaching any of the pumps, and the structure is oriented so that the boundary is symmetrical with respect
to the centerline of the structure. As a general guide,
cross-flow velocities are significant if they exceed 50%
of the pump bay entrance velocity. Recommendations
(based on a physical hydraulic model study) for analyzing departures from the ideal condition are given in
Section 9.8.5.
A-2.1 Open vs. partitioned structures

If multiple pumps are installed in a single intake structure, dividing walls placed between the pumps result in
42

more favorable flow conditions than found in open
sumps. Open sumps, with no dividing walls, have been
used with varying levels of success, but adverse flow
patterns can frequently occur if dividing walls are not
used. The trench-type intake structure, described in
Section 9.8.2.4 and 9.8.3.2, is a type of open sump

that is an exception. Open sumps are particularly susceptible to cross-currents and non-uniform approach flow
patterns. Even if approach flow at the entrance to the
structure is uniform, open sumps result in non-uniform
Pump bay
velocity
distribution
a - One wall parallel, one wall

perpendicular to direction of final
approach
b - Straight approach, structure

located at the terminus of a long
canal
c - Wing walls, with cross-currents
d - Wing walls, with no

cross-currents
e - No wing walls, with cross-currents
f - No wing wall, with no cross-currents
Figure A.1 Examples of approach flow conditions at intake structures

and the resulting effect on velocity, all pumps operating
43

flow patterns approaching some of the pumps when
operating pumps are arranged asymmetrically with
respect to the centerline of the intake structure. This
situation can occur when various combinations of
pumps are operating or if the intake structure is
designed to accommodate additional pumps at some
future date. Figure A.3 is an example of flow
approaching the pumps in both a partitioned structure
and an open sump, both operating at partial flow rate.
The example facilities contain four units with two of the
four operating. In both structures, flow is withdrawn
from a reservoir with no velocity component perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline of the intake structures. In the partitioned structure, flow enters the bay
of pump 1 fairly uniformly. It enters the bay containing
pump 2 non-uniformly, with a separation area near the
right side-wall. However, the length of the bay relative
to its width channels the flow and allows it to become
more uniform as it approaches the pump. In Figure A.3,
example b, the dashed line at the wing walls shows a
rounded entrance configuration that minimizes flow
separation near the entrance to the outer pump bays.
Figure A.2 Examples of pump approach flow patterns for various combinations of operating pumps
44

operating simultaneously, submerged vortices frequently form, connecting both pumps.
In open sumps (Figure A.3, example a), flow may enter

the structure uniformly with respect to the centerline of
the structure. However, since the location of the two
operating pumps is not symmetrical with respect to the
centerline of the structure, flow separates from the
right wall of the structure and approaches pump 2 with
a tangential velocity component, greatly increasing the
probability of unacceptable levels of pre-swirl.
A-3
Controlling cross-flow
If cross-flow is present (i.e., if the pump station is withdrawing flow from the bank of a canal or stream), trash
racks with elongated bars can provide some assistance in distribution flow as it enters the pump bay, but
if the flow profile is skewed when it enters the trash
rack, it will be skewed as it exits. To be effective in
guiding flow, trash racks must be placed flush with the
upstream edges of the pump bay dividing walls. In this
example the trash rack must be vertical or match the
If all four pumps in the open sump were to operate

simultaneously, approach flow would be reasonably
uniform, but other adverse phenomena could be
present. For example, when two adjacent pumps are
Flow
seperation
line
a - Open sump, Pumps 1 & 2 operating

illustrating problem flow patterns
Curved wall to
prevent flow
seperation at
entrance
b - Partitioned sump, Pumps 1 & 2 operating,

less likely to result in flow problems
Figure A.3 Comparison of flow patterns in open and partitioned sumps

45

incline of the entrance. Both trash racks and dividing
walls must be in line with the stream bank contour.
Trash racks recessed from the entrance to pump bays,
and through-flow traveling screens have a negligible
flow straightening effect (see Figure A.4).
Partially clogged trash racks or screens can create
severely skewed flow profiles. If the application is such
that screens or trash racks are susceptible to clogging,
they must be inspected and cleaned as frequently as
necessary to prevent adverse effects on flow patterns.
Two other flow-straightening devices for minimizing
cross-flow effects at bay entrances are shown in Figure A.5. One or two large guide piers or plates per bay
help turn the flow. Although distinct flow separation
eddies occur at each pier, the eddies are smaller than
the single flow separation (eddy) that would occur
along one bay wall. Alternatively, a number of smaller
columns or structural members may be placed at the
bay entrance, and these are effective in both turning
and creating more uniform velocity by inducing a head

loss across the column array.
A-4
Expanding concentrated flows
Two methods for correcting flow disturbances generated by expansion of a concentrated flow are
described below.
A-4.1 Free-surface approach

In some installations, site conditions dictate that the
approach flow channel or conduit, although in line with
the sump axis, is much smaller than the sump width.
To avoid concentrated flow and large eddies, the side
walls approaching the pump bays must gradually
diverge, and flow baffles of varying geometry may be
used to spread the flow at a divergence angle greater
than otherwise possible. Figure A.6 shows possible
corrective measures.
Flow separation line
12" Min.
Velocity distribution
downstream from
trash racks with
cross flow
FLUSH
RECESSED
Figure A.4 Effect of trash rack design and location on velocity distribution entering pump bay
Figure A.5 Flow-guiding devices at entrance to individual pump bays

46

line for initial layouts of structures, with final design to
be developed with the aid of a physical model study.
The flow leaving a dual entry flow screen requires baffling to break up and laterally distribute the concentrated flow prior to reaching the pump, and one
possible arrangement is shown in Figure A.7.
A-4.2 Closed conduit approach
If measures are not taken to mitigate the effects these

screens have on flow patterns (see Figure A.8), the jet
exiting the center of these screens will attach to one
wall or the other, and will result in highly non-uniform
flow for an indefinite distance down the channel. The
non-uniform flow creates excessive swirl at the pump.
The screen exit must be placed a minimum distance of
six bell diameters, 6D (see Section 9.8.2.1.3) from the
pumps. However, this distance is only a general guide-
Flow may be provided to rectangular intake structures

through a conduit. When multiple pumps are installed
perpendicularly to the influent conduit, the flow pattern
improves and approach velocities decrease if the
sump walls diverge gradually from the point of influent
toward the pump bays. Maintaining a small angle
divergence of each wall from the influent conduit minimizes the difficulty in spreading the flow uniformly. A
series of flow distribution baffles may be installed to
Approximate influent jet

boundary (may not be
symetrical)
Upwelling and laterial

flow movement to outer
pump bays
Vertical column
array for flow
distribution
Radially
diffused flow
approaching
pumps
20
max.
ORIGINAL
IMPROVED
Figure A.6 Concentrated influent configuration, with and without flow distribution devices
NOTE: Physical hydraulic model study required.
Figure A.7 Baffling to improve flow pattern downstream from dual flow screen
47

dissipate the energy of the entering flow and force a
diverging and more uniform flow pattern approaching
the pumps. A typical approach flow pattern in a wet
well with a conduit approach, with and without diverging side walls and flow distribution baffles, is shown in
Figure A.7.
If a conduit approach is required and there is no room
for gradually diverging side walls, velocities in the conduit entering the sump may need to be limited, such as
by adding expansion pieces to the downstream end of
the conduit. In addition to the features described
above, a baffle may be needed near the influent point
of the conduit(s) to dissipate the energy from the
entering jet and spread the flow toward the pump bays.
Increasing the number of inflow lines together with a

flow distributor across the sump and/or each bay may
provide an adequate distribution to the pump bays,
see Figure A.9.
The trench-type wet well described in Section 9.8.2.4
is an alternate arrangement, where the pumps are
positioned in line with the approach pipe.
A-5
Pump inlet disturbances
A-5.1 Free-surface vortices

Surface vortices may be reduced with increasing
depth of submergence of the pump bells. However,
Typical trash
rack location
Screen
bulkhead
Screen
mesh
Unstable jet
attaches to
one side wall
NOTE: Physical hydraulic model study required.

Figure A.8 Typical flow pattern through a dual flow screen
48

there are also situations where increasing depth has
negligible effects or even increases surface vortex formation due to stagnant and therefore unstable liquid.
Surface vortices are also highly dependent on
approach flow patterns and the stability of these patterns, as well as on the inlet Froude number. The
above situation complicates the establishment of a
minimum depth of submergence as a definitive measure against vortices. To achieve a higher degree of
certainty that objectionable surface vortices do not
form, modifications can be made to intake structures
to allow operation at practical depths of submergence.
Move Back Wall

To Recommended
Clearance
Many pump manufacturers offer optional suction

umbrellas to reduce free surface vortices. Usually,
suction umbrellas are horizontally oriented flat rings or
washers attached to the pump bell to increase the
bell diameter and reduce velocities at the revised inlet.
Curtain walls, such as shown in Figure A.10, create a
horizontal shear plane that is perpendicular to the vertical axis of rotation of surface vortices, and prevent
the vortices from continuing into the inlet.
Add Baffle
Add Inflow
Pipe(s)
Add Increasers
Flow Distributor(s)
Figure A.9 Improvements to approach flow without diverging sump walls
2D
Min.
Min. Liquid
Level
1/2 D Min.
Figure A.10 Elevation view of a curtain wall for minimizing surface vortices
49

Vertical curtain walls have been used with success
and are easier to construct than sloping curtain walls.
However, the abrupt changes in flow direction caused
by vertical walls can create surface vortices in the
upstream corners of those walls. If the curtain walls
are placed at about 45 degrees from the vertical, then
all flow near the surface is deflected downwards and
surface vortices are minimized. Curtain walls also
assist in spreading poorly distributed flow.
zontal (sloping) floor splitter under the bell as shown in

Figure A.11 and perhaps by using a submerged (weir)
wall across the bay width, close to the upstream side
of the pump. This wall, if a few pump diameters high
off the floor, has the effect of turning all the flow downward, similar to that in a circular can arrangement,
and the basic change in flow pattern may reduce preswirl and other undesirable hydraulic phenomena.
A-5.4 Velocities in pump bell throat

Horizontal gratings may also be used to suppress free
surface vortices when pumping clear liquids. Standard
floor grating 38 mm (1.5 inches) deep or greater, or a
specially constructed egg-crate type grating may be
effective. At the low liquid level, the top of the grating
should be submerged about 150 mm (6 inches). As a
temporary measure, floating rafts of various types may
be used to suppress surface vortices.
A-5.2 Sub-surface vortices

The geometry of boundaries in the immediate vicinity
of the pump bells is one of the more critical aspects of
successful intake structure design. It is in this area that
the most complicated flow patterns exist and flow must
make the most changes in direction, while maintaining
a constant acceleration into the pump bells to prevent
local flow separation, turbulence, and submerged vortex formation. Pump bell clearance from the floor and
walls is an integral part of the design. A sampling of
various devices to address sub-surface vortices are
shown in Figure A.11. These and other measures may
be used individually or in combination to reduce the
probability of flow separation and submerged vortices.
A-5.3 Pre-swirl
Whether pre-swirl exists to an objectionable extent is
governed primarily by the approach flow distribution. A
sufficiently laterally skewed approach flow causes
rotation around the pump bell, in spite of the local features. Such rotation causes flow over the central splitter and potentially produces a submerged vortex
emanating from the flow separation at the central splitter. A cone on the floor would not cause such a submerged vortex problem, but the cone would also not
help to control residual pre-swirl.
The most effective way of reducing pre-swirl is to
establish a relatively uniform approach flow within
each pump bay by using the baffling schemes discussed in Sections A-2 to A-4 above. Final reductions
in swirl may be achieved near the pump bell by installing a vertical splitter along the back wall, in line and
directly behind the pump column, by providing a hori-
A relatively uniform velocity distribution occurs at the

pump bell throat if the flow enters the bell essentially
radially, without pre-swirl or local flow disturbances
such as vortices or eddies caused by local flow separation. Therefore, all of the above described flow control devices, starting with providing a uniform approach
flow and including local anti-vortex measures near the
bell, may be needed to achieve the desired uniformity
of velocities.
Alternatively, a properly shaped formed suction intake
(FSI) may be provided, as discussed in Section
9.8.2.2. Model tests have shown that the FSI provides
the desired uniformity of velocity at the bell throat for
reasonable flow patterns approaching the FSI.
A-6
Tanks suction inlets
Undesirable flow conditions may be created at the

pump inlet in the tank depending on the inflowoutflow
arrangement in a storage tank, whether the tank inflow
is operating while the pump suction (inlet) is operating,
and whether there are flow obstructions in the tank.
Even if only the pump inlet is operating and there are
no flow obstructions in the tank, the non-uniform
approach flow to the pump inlet may cause pre-swirl
and vortices.
Since a dry-pit pump is usually located some distance
downstream from its piping inlet in the tank, the effect
of these flow disturbances on the pump is not as
severe as with wet-pit pumps. For example, local flow
separation, swirl, or velocity non-uniformities, although
creating greater head losses at the inlet, may be dissipated in the approach piping to the pump. The main
problem is usually entrainment of air (or other tank
gases) due to free-surface vortices, as this air may collect in the piping (causing air binding) or cause degradation of pump performance.
Preventing the formation of free-surface vortices at
tank inlets to pumps allows the tank to be drawn to
lower levels than would otherwise be possible. This
benefit requires the use of various anti-vortex devices
50
B - Floor splitter plate
A - Wall splitter plate
C - Floor cone
0.5D
0.5D
0.5D
D - Back wall
E - Corner fillets
0.5D
F - Back wall fillet
0.6D
0.5D
0.3D
0.5D
2D
G - Side wall fillets
2D
H - Center splitter
I - Strainer with
guide vanes
Figure A.11 Methods to reduce sub-surface vortices (examples AI)

51

at the inlet. Some common types of such devices are
shown in Figure A.12.
As an alternative, a cage type vortex suppressor may
be used, as illustrated in Figure A.12, example 6. The
cubic cage may be made of standard 38 mm
(1.5 inches) deep (or deeper) floor grating (or its
equivalent). The length, width and height of the cubic
cage, each with a characteristic length termed Lv
should be about 3 inlet pipe diameters, and the top of

the cage should be submerged about 150 mm
(6 inches) below the minimum liquid level. Non-cubic
cage shapes are also effective if the upper (horizontal)
grating is at least 3 inlet pipe diameters on each side
and is also submerged 150 mm (6 inches) below the
minimum liquid level. A single horizontal grating meeting these guidelines may also be effective. Tests on
such cage type vortex suppressors have demonstrated
Figure A.12 Anti-vortex devices

52

their capability to reduce air entrainment to nearly zero
even under adverse approach flow conditions (Padmanabhan, 1982). However, it may be noted that the
minimum submergence from the tank floor is dictated
by the vertical cage dimension plus the needed 150
mm (6 inches) submergence above the top of the
cage.
53
Appendix B
Sump Volume
B-1
Scope
This section on pump sump volumes pertains to constant speed pumps. For adjustable speed pumping,
sump volume may not need to be considered (assuming certain pump controls) except for a requirement
that the sump volume must be large enough to keep
currents sufficiently low.
B-2
General
Most pumping systems that transfer liquids (as

opposed to circulating systems) utilize some form of a
pump sump. A pump sump acts as an intermediate
buffer zone capable of absorbing inflow fluctuations
relative to pumping capacity. The pump sump is often
used for intermediate storage to allow constant speed
pumps to work in an on/off mode while the pump sump
is being filled and emptied. This operation allows for
the most efficient use of constant speed pumps. A
pump sump should also act to distribute the inflow to
the various pumps in a pumping station in such a way
that good hydraulic inflow conditions exist at each
pump during various operating conditions.
In new construction as well as in upgrading existing
pump stations, it is important to know the required
active sump volume. This volume is defined by the
highest start level and lowest stop level in the pump
sump. The minimum required sump volume can be
calculated and it depends on the inflow to the pump
station, the pump capacities, their allowed cycle time
(number of starts per hour allowed for pump, drive,
starters, etc., as applicable), and their operating
sequence. The limiting parameter is the cycle time.
The volume has to be sufficiently large not to exceed
the number of starts per hour specified by the motor/
pump manufacturer. For the simplest case (one pump
operated at constant speed), the maximum number of
starts per hour occurs when the inflow is 50% of the
pump capacity. For multiple pumps, the operating
sequence also affects the volume required. The number of starts per hour a pump and motor system can
sustain is determined by the selection of starting
equipment, load and inertia characteristics of the
pump, and the motor design. With increasing numbers

of allowable starts per hour, the requirement for active
sump volume is reduced. Alternating the starting
pump in multiple pump installations also greatly
reduces the required active sump volume.
For pumping systems dealing with solids-bearing liquids, allowing the pump sump level to fluctuate will create differences in flow patterns that may minimize
solids sedimentation and particle build-up on the
intake surfaces.
There are several methods to calculate the required
active sump volume. The sequence with which the
pumps are brought on and off line plays an important
role as does the total number of pumps. An active
sump volume that is too small reduces motor, pump,
and electrical equipment life by excessive starting and
stopping. A pump station with a sump volume that is
too large is expensive to build, and the larger volume
may increase the risk of undesirable hydraulic patterns
due to stagnant zones and zones of low liquid velocity.
For domestic sewage, the increased storage time promotes septicity during periods of low flow. Since an
increase in the active volume often is accomplished by
constructing a deeper station, a larger volume leads to
higher pumping head and consequently a higher
energy usage. In a situation where contaminated or
solids-bearing liquid is pumped, a larger pump sump
would also be more difficult to maintain in a clean
state.
To calculate the minimum sump volume for an application with constant speed pumps, start with the following relationship:
Vol- + -----------------Vol -
T = -------Q
Q
Q in
in
(B.1)
Where:
T =
The pump cycle time in minutes, i.e., the

time between two consecutive starts (time
to fill and empty).
54

Vol =
The effective sump volume, i.e., the volume between the start level and the stop
level in liters (cubic feet).
Qin =
The inflow into the pump station in l/min

(cubic feet per minute).
Q =
The pump flow rate in l/min (cubic feet per

minute).
Differentiating the equation shows that the maximum

number of starts per hour occurs at an inflow rate
which is half of the pumping rate.
B-3
Minimum sump volume sequence
The required active sump volume and cycle time in

relation to pump capacity can be calculated by using
Equation B.1 in combination with the corresponding
pump and system head curves.
When the second pump is brought on line, the flow
rate in the system increases, thus producing increased
losses. This scenario effectively reduces the capacity
of each pump running (see Figure B.2).
Each volume must be calculated with the appropriate
pump capacity.
Rearranging Equation B.1 and solving for Vol1:

Q in
Vol 1 = T --------- ( Q Q in )
Q p1
(B.2)
p1
Where:
Vol1 =
The active sump volume for pump 1 in

liters (cubic feet).
T =
Pump cycle time (time to fill and empty) in

minutes.
Qin =
The inflow into the station in l/min (cubic

feet per minute).
QP1 =
The flow rate of pump 1 in l/min (cubic feet

per minute).
Two operational sequences for multi-pump stations

are:
Example B-1-A (A station with two duty plus one

standby pump) has three constant speed pumps, each
with a capacity of 150 l/s (2400 gpm) at 15 m (50 ft),
which is the first duty point on the system curve. The
second duty point is 250 l/s (4000 gpm) at 16.7 m
(55 ft) (two pumps together). What is the minimum
sump volume using sequence 1 operation and 10
starts per hour?
Convert the pump flow rates to l/min (cfm), by multiplying with 60 (7.48 gallons per cubic foot).
150 l/s = 9000 l/min (2400 gpm = 320 cfm)
250 l/s = 15,000 l/min (4000 gpm = 535 cfm)
The highest pump cycling frequency occurs when the
inflow equals 50% of the pump flow with one pump
running, therefore the Vol1 is determined for Qin = 5 l/s
(159 cfm).
Pump Cycle Time 1 in Metric Units:
Sequence 1
Sequence 2
The pumps start and stop at individual levels; as the level rises in the
sump, each pump is sequentially
brought on-line until the inflow is surpassed. As the level falls, each
pump is brought off line in reverse
order (see Figure B.1).
The pumps start as in sequence 1,
but all pumps continue to operate to
the minimum stop level (see Figure
B.1).
60- = 360 seconds

T = 60
------------------10
Q in
- ( Q Q in )
Vol 1 = T -------- Q p1
p1
75
Vol 1 = 360 ---------- ( 150 75 )
150
Vol 1 = 13,500 liters
The staggered stop levels in sequence 1 results in a

lower energy consumption, but may require a larger
active sump volume.
Vol2 is calculated with the following equation. An iteration or trial and error show that the shortest cycle time
occurs for Qin = 200 l/s (424 cfm).
55
Sequence 1
Sequence 2
Start P2
Start P2
V2
V1
Start P1
Stop P2
All Off
Stop P1
Start P1
All Off
Stop All
Figure B.1 Operational sequences

Total head 1 pump running
System head
Head
Total head
2 pumps running
HLoss
HStatic
Qp1
Qp2
Flow
159
Vol 1 = 6 ---------- ( 318 159 )
318
Vol 1 = 477 cubic feet
Vol2 is calculated with the following equation. An iteration or trial and error show that the shortest cycle time
occurs for Qin = 200 l/s (424 cfm).
Figure B.2 Pump and system head curves
( Q p2 Q in )
Vol 2 = T ( Q in Q p1 ) ------------------------------( Q p2 Q p1 )
( 250 200 )
Vol 2 = 360 ( 200 150 ) -----------------------------( 250 320 )
Vol 2 = 9000 liters
( Q p2 Q in )
Vol 2 = T ( Q in Q p1 ) ------------------------------( Q p2 Q p1 )
( 535 424 )
Vol 2 = 6 ( 424 318 ) -----------------------------( 535 318 )
Vol 2 = 325 cubic feet
Thus, the minimum sump volume is:
Voltot = Vol1 + Vol2 = 802 cubic feet for this example.
Where:
Minimum Sump Volume Sequence 2
QP2 =
the flow with two pumps running
Thus, the minimum sump volume is:

Voltot = Vol1 + Vol2 = 22,500 liters
The pumps start as in sequence 1. The difference

here is that all pumps continue to run until the liquid
reaches the low level shut off. The calculation for Vol1
is the same as for sequence 1; however, the following
equation must be used for Vol2 (only for two pumps).
for this example.

Vol 2
Vol
Vol 1 + Vol 2
T = -----------1- + ------------------------ + -----------------------------Q
Q p2 Q in
Q in Q p1
in
In US Units:
T = 60
------ = 6 minutes
10
Where:
T =
Q in
- ( Q Q in )
Vol 1 = T -------- Q p1
p1
Vol1 =
Pump cycle time in minutes.

Active sump volume for pump 1, liters
(cu ft).
56

Vol2 =
Active sump volume for pump 2, liters

(cu ft).
Qin =
The inflow into the station in l/min (cfm).
QP1 =
Flow rate with pump 1 running, l/min (cfm).
6 ( 381 318 ) ( 535 381 )

Vol 2 = ----------------------------------------------------------------535 318
QP2 =
The combined flow rate with 2 pumps running, l/min (cfm).
477 535 ( 381 318 )

---------------------------------------------------------381 ( 535 318 )
In US Units:
T = 6 minutes
Vol1 = 477 cubic feet
Rearranging:
Vol2 = 74 cubic feet
T ( Q in Q p1 ) ( Q p2 Q in )
Vol 2 = ---------------------------------------------------------------Q p2 Q p1
Vol 1 Q p2 ( Q in Q p1 )
----------------------------------------------------Q in ( Q p2 Q p1 )
(B.2)
An iteration or trial and error process is used to determine that the shortest cycle time occurs when Qin =
180 l/s (381 cfm). This inflow is used to calculate the
minimum Vol2.
In Metric Units:
T = 360 seconds
360 ( 180 150 ) ( 250 180 )
Vol 2 = -----------------------------------------------------------------------250 150
13,500 250 ( 180 150 )
-----------------------------------------------------------------180 ( 250 150 )
Total active volume is:

VolTOT = Vol1 + Vol2 = 551 cubic feet
Thus, operational sequence 2 requires less active volume than operational sequence 1.
B-4 Decreasing sump volume by pump

alternation
By designing the control system for alternating pump
starts, twice as many starts per hour (for a station with
two operational pumps) can be obtained, reducing the
sump volume by 50% and distributing the pump operating time evenly between pumps. In a critical application, a two-pump station may have an installed spare
pump in addition to the main pumps. Consideration
should be given to the system and application before
utilizing this sump volume reduction technique.
Vol1 = 13,500 liters

Vol2 = 1,935 liters
VolTOT = Vol1 + Vol2 = 15,435 liters
57
Appendix C
Intake Basin Entrance Conditions
C-1
Variable speed pumps
There should be 5 to 10 diameters of straight, prismatic, and level (or nearly level) inlet pipe leading into
the pump basin. The pipe should lie in a vertical plane
through the pump intakes. To avoid high currents near
the pump intakes, the pipe should be well above the
basin floor, as shown in Figures 9.8.4, 9.8.5, 9.8.6,
9.8.7, 9.8.13, and 9.8.17.
To produce uniform flow across the entrance of the wet
well during a cleaning, provide a short (approximately
D/5) rectangular recess 2D wide on the upstream side
of the sluice gate. Alternately, use a short transition
from a circular pipe to a rectangular conduit as shown
in Figure 9.8.13.
The minimum liquid level must be high enough to avoid
a free fall of the liquid entering the wet well. Because
the speed of the pump can be regulated to match the
inflow, a stable liquid level in the wet well can be maintained to match the depth in the upstream conduit,
thus avoiding a free fall.
C-2
high and low liquid levels by, typically, 1.2 m (4 ft) to

avoid excessively frequent motor starts.
C-2.1 Inlet pipe, trench-type wet wells

The objectives in designing the entrance for trenchtype wet wells containing constant speed pumps are:
1) To eliminate any cascade
2) To minimize turbulence and the release of
noxious dissolved gasses
3) To produce gentle, horizontal currents free
from air bubbles
4) To supply a large part of the active storage
volume in the inlet pipe so as to minimize the
size of the wet well
Objectives 1 and 3 could be met by installing a drop
manhole 5 to 10 diameters upstream from the sluice
gate. Objectives 2 and 4, however, would not be met;
and a drop manhole is not recommended.
Constant speed pumping

C-2.2 Storage in approach pipe
Constant speed pumping requires cyclic (on-off) pump

operation, and there must be enough active storage
volume to keep the frequency of motor starts within
the manufacturers recommendations. The active storage volume is obtained by allowing the liquid level to
fluctuate - typically about 1.2 m (4 ft) for constant
speed pumping applications.
Improper but common practice is to allow a free fall or
cascade from the inlet into the pool below. But even a
short free fall entrains air bubbles and drives them
deep into the pool where they may be drawn into the
pumps and reduce pump flow rate, head, and efficiency as well as cause damage to the pump. If the liquid is domestic wastewater, the turbulence sweeps
malodorous and corrosive gasses into the atmosphere. The problem, in 1997, was almost universal in
wet wells for constant speed pumps where the active
storage requirement made it necessary to separate
All four objectives listed in C-2.1 can be achieved by

installing an approach pipe, a pipe somewhat larger
than the upstream sewer and laid at a severe gradient
to produce supercritical velocities at low wet well levels
and thus supply a major share of the required active
storage volume. The last part of the approach pipe
should preferably be laid horizontally and must meet
the other conditions in C-1 above. A gradient of 2% is
a good choice because:
1) A pipe 60 m (200 ft) long allows the liquid level
to fluctuate 1.2 m (4 ft)
2) Such a pipe can hold half or more of the active
storage volume required
58

3) supercritical velocities are reasonable and
produce a weak hydraulic jump where the
supercritical flow strikes the pooled water
The Froude number for the jump is less than 2.5, so
there is little bubble formation and off-gassing. Note
from Tables C.1 and C.2 that the useful active storage
cross-section of the approach pipe varies from 72 to
81% of the total pipe cross-sectional area.
To flush deposits from the approach pipe, set the stop
level for each pump (or combination of pumps) to produce an approach pipe exit velocity of 1.0 to 1.2 m/s
(3.0 to 4.0 ft/s).
Tables C.1 and C.2, developed by Wheeler (1995),
contains data for approach pipes at 2% gradient based
on a modified Mannings n of 0.010 (roughly equivalent
to a constant n of 0.013). The allowable flow is predicated on a sequent depth (after the jump) of 60% of
the pipe diameter. The energy grade line (EGL) before

the jump is about 25% of the pipe diameter (Dp) below
the soffit, so the hydraulic jump can never reach the
top of the pipe. There is a 20 Dp length of free water
surface so that any bubbles formed in the hydraulic
jump can rise to the surface and escape up the pipe.
Smoother pipes and steeper slopes generate higher
velocities, larger Froude numbers upstream from the
jump, and higher sequent depths than do flatter slopes
or rougher pipe. To maintain a sequent depth of 60%
of the pipe diameter, it follows that for a given size and
slope, a rough approach pipe can carry a larger flow
than a smooth one.
C-3 Transition manhole, sewer to

approach pipe
The transition in the manhole between the upstream
conduit and the approach pipe is designed to acceler-
Table C.1 Maximum flow in approach pipes with hydraulic jumpmetric units, slope = 2%, Mannings
n = 0.010a. Sequent depth = 60% pipe diameter. After Wheeler (1995).
True Pipe
Dia.
Area
At m 2
DP mm
Flow Rate
m3/h
l/s
y/DP %b
Before Jump
Velocity
m/s
Ae/At %c
Froude
Number
After Jump
Energy
y/DP %b
Loss %
254
0.051
71
20
32
1.4
72
1.6
59
17
304
0.073
110
31
32
1.6
72
1.6
59
18
381
0.114
190
53
31
1.8
74
1.7
60
18
457
0.164
290
81
30
2.0
75
1.7
60
18
533
0.223
420
120
29
2.2
76
1.7
60
19
610
0.292
580
160
29
2.3
76
1.8
60
19
686
0.370
770
210
28
2.5
77
1.8
60
20
762
0.456
990
270
28
2.6
78
1.8
60
20
838
0.552
1200
340
27
2.8
78
1.9
60
20
914
0.657
1500
420
27
2.9
78
1.9
60
21
1067
0.894
2200
610
27
3.2
78
1.9
60
21
1219
1.17
3000
840
26
3.5
79
2.0
60
22
1372
1.48
4000
1100
26
3.7
79
2.0
60
22
1524
1.82
5100
1400
25
4.0
79
2.0
60
23
1676
2.21
6500
1800
25
4.2
81
2.1
60
23
1829
2.63
7900
2200
25
4.4
81
2.1
60
24
a For n = 0.009, multiply flow rates by 92%.
For n = 0.011, multiply flow rates by 108%.

b Depth (y) divided by pipe diameter (D ) expressed in percent.
p
c Empty area of pipe above liquid level (A ) divided by total area (A ).
e
t
59

ate the liquid to the velocities in Tables C.1 and C.2.
Care must be taken to form a sloping transition
between the invert of the upstream conduit or sewer
on one side and the invert of the approach pipe on the
other side. The drop (and hence the slope) of the transition invert can be found by the application of Bernoullis Equation.
In the sewer, the EGL lies above the liquid surface by
the velocity head, v2/2g. For a sewer flowing full at
maximum design flow rate, the EGL is likely to be
somewhat above the soffit. In the approach pipe, the
EGL is 60% of the Dp plus velocity head above the
invert, and the sum is usually about 75% Dp.
Locate the approach pipe so that its EGL is below the
EGL of the sewer by an amount equal to the expected
head loss due to turbulence and friction. As data on
head losses are sparse, be conservative and increase
the invert drop somewhat to ensure supercritical flow.
Velocities 20% greater than the values in Tables C.1

and C.2 increase the sequent depth from 60 to only
67% Dp an increase readily tolerated.
C-4
Sluice gate
A mechanically-operated sluice gate must be installed

at the entrance to the wet well both to protect the station and to regulate the flow required for cleaning. The
mechanism should be capable of setting the elevation
of the sluice gate accurately and rapidly to a predetermined position.
C-5
Lining
The approach pipe is subject to corrosion caused by

sulfuric acid forming above low liquid line by bacteria
acting upon sulfur compounds. As with the wet well, all
surfaces above low liquid level should be lined with an
impervious material immune to corrosion.
Table C.2 Maximum flow in approach pipes with hydraulic jumpUS customary units, slope = 2%,
Mannings n = 0.010a. Sequent depth = 60% pipe diameter. After Wheeler (1995).
Pipe
Flow Rate
Before Jump
Velocity
ft/s
Ae/At %c
Froude
Number
After Jump
Energy
y/DP %b
Loss %
Dia.
DP inch
Area
At ft2
mgd
ft3/s
y/DP %b
10
0.55
0.5
0.7
32
4.6
72
1.6
59
17
12
0.79
0.7
1.1
32
5.1
72
1.6
59
18
15
1.23
1.2
1.9
31
5.8
74
1.7
60
18
18
1.77
1.9
2.9
30
6.5
75
1.7
60
18
21
2.41
2.7
4.1
29
7.1
76
1.7
60
19
24
3.14
3.7
5.7
29
7.7
76
1.8
60
19
27
3.98
4.9
7.5
28
8.2
77
1.8
60
20
30
4.91
6.3
9.7
28
8.7
78
1.8
60
20
33
5.94
7.8
12.1
27
9.2
78
1.9
60
20
36
7.07
9.7
14.9
27
9.7
78
1.9
60
21
42
9.62
14.0
21.6
27
10.6
78
1.9
60
21
48
12.6
19.1
29.6
26
11.4
79
2.0
60
22
54
15.9
25.3
39.1
26
12.2
79
2.0
60
22
60
19.6
32.5
50.3
25
13.0
79
2.0
60
23
66
23.8
40.9
63.3
25
13.7
81
2.1
60
23
72
28.3
50.3
77.8
25
14.4
81
2.1
60
24
a For n = 0.009, multiply flow rates by 92%.

b Depth (y) divided by pipe diameter (D ).
p
c Empty area of pipe above liquid level (A ) divided by total area (A ).
e
t
60
C-6
Design examples
Examples of wet well designs for

1) Variable speed pumps
2) Constant speed pumps
3) Approach pipes
4) Transition manholes
are given by Sanks, Tchobanoglous, Bosserman, and
Jones (1998).
Tables C.1 and C.2 can be modified to other flows,
pipe gradients, or roughness by means of the PARTFULL program (1995), which can be obtained free
from Wheeler.
61
Appendix D
Bibliography
Dicmas, J.L., Vertical Turbine, Mixed Flow and Propeller Pumps, McGraw-Hill Book Company.
Jain, A.K., Raju, K.G.R., and Garde, R.J., Vortex Formation at Vertical Pipe Intakes, ASCE Journal of
Hydraulics Division, Vol. 104, No. HY10, October
1978, p. 1429.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ETL No. 110-2-327).
Section 9.8.7
Section 9.8.5
Hecker, G.E., Chapter 8, Conclusions, Swirling Flow

Problems at Intakes, IAHR Hydraulic Structures
Design Manual 1, J. Knauss, Coordinator-Editor, A.A.
Balkema, Rotterdam, 1987.
Section 9.8.2
Anwar, H.O., Weller, J.A., and Amphlett, M.B., Similarity of Free Vortex at Horizontal Intake, Journal of
Hydraulic Research, IAHR, Vol. 16, No. 2, 1978, p. 95.
Appendix A
Daggett, L., and Keulegan, G.H., Similitude in FreeSurface Vortex Formations, ASCE Journal of the
Hydraulics Division, Vol. 100, HY11, November 1974,
p. 1565.
Hecker, G.E., Model-Prototype Comparison of Free
Surface Vortices, ASCE Journal of the Hydraulics
Division, Vol. 107, No. HY10, October 1981, p.1243.
Padamanabhan, M., Evaluation of Vortex Suppressors, Hydraulic Performance of Single Outlet Sumps,
and Sensitivity of Miscellaneous Sump Parameters,
Alden Research Laboratory Report No. 49A-82/
M398F, September 1982.
Appendix C
Padmanabhan, M., and Hecker, G.E., Scale Effects in

Pump Sump Models, ASCE Journal of Hydraulic
Engineering, Vol. 110, No. 11, November 1984, p.
1540.
Sanks, R.L., Tchobanoglous, G., Bosserman, B.E.,

and Jones, G.M., Pumping Station Design, Second
Edition, Butterworth/Heinemann, 225 Wildwood Ave.,
Woburn, MA 01801-2041, 1998.
Knauss, J., Coordinator-Editor, Swirling Flow Problems at Intakes, IAHR Hydraulic Structures Design
Manual 1., A.A. Balkema Publishers, Rotterdam, 1987.
Wheeler, W. PARTFULL, 1995. (For a free copy of a

computer program for calculating maximum flow in an
approach pipe, with instructions, send a formatted
1.4 MB, 3.5 disk and a self-addressed mailer to 683
Limekiln Road, Doylestown, PA 18901-2335).
62
HI Pump Intake Design Index 1998
Appendix E
Index
This appendix is not part of this standard, but is presented to help the user in considering factors beyond this
standard.
Note: an f. indicates a figure, and a t. indicates a table.
Approach pipe lining, 60
Can intakes
closed bottom can, 13, 13f.
design considerations, 11
open bottom can intakes, 12, 12f.
Circular plan wet pits, 18, 18f., 19f.
Circular pump stations (clear liquid)
dimensioning, 6
floor clearance, 6
inflow pipe, 7
inlet bell clearance, 7
inlet bell or volute diameter, 7
sump diameter, 7, 7f., 8f.
wall clearance, 6
Confined wet well design, 19, 20f.
Constant speed pumps, 58, 59t., 60t.
Definitions
symbols, 38
terminology, 35
Entrained air, 1
Flow, 26
Formed suction intakes, 3, 6f.
application standards, 4
dimensions, 3
Free-surface vortices, 1, 26, 26f.
Gas bubbles, 1
Glossary, 35
Inlet bell design diameter, 21t., 28, 30f., 31f.
Intake designs
alternative, 1
design objectives, 1
general information, 1
Intake structures
basin entrance conditions, 58
can intakes, 11
circular plan wet pits, 18, 18f., 19f.
circular pump stations (clear liquids), 5
for clear liquids, 1

confined wet well design, 19, 20f.
formed suction intakes, 3, 6f.
model tests, 22
rectangular intakes, 1, 3f., 4t., 5t.
rectangular wet wells, 19
remedial measures, 42
for solids-bearing liquids, 15
submersible vertical turbine pump intakes, 11, 14
suction tanks, 9
trench-type intakes (clear liquids), 7, 8f., 9f.
trench-type wet wells, 16f., 17
unconfined intakes, 14
Liquid level, 26
Model tests, 22
acceptance criteria, 28
flow, 26
free-surface vortices, 26, 26f.
instrumentation and measuring techniques, 26
liquid level, 26
model scope, 25
objectives, 23
pre-swirl, 27
report preparation, 28
similitude and scale selection, 24
sub-surface vortices, 26f., 27
swirl in the suction pipe, 27
swirl meters, 27, 27f.
test plan, 28
velocity profiles, 27
Nomenclature, 38
Pre-swirl, 1, 27
Pump suction piping, 20, 21f., 21t., 22f., 23f.
Pumps
constant speed pumping, 58, 59t., 60t.
hydraulic phenomena adversely affecting, 1
sump volumes, 54
variable speed, 58
63
HI Pump Intake Design Index 1998

Rectangular intakes
approach flow patterns, 1
design sequence, 5t.
dimensioning, 2
open vs. partitioned structures, 2
trash racks and screens, 2
Rectangular wet wells, 19
Remedial measures, 42
approach flow patterns, 42, 43f., 44f., 45f.
cross-flow, 45, 46f.
expansion of concentrated flows, 46, 47f., 48f., 49f.
pump inlet disturbances, 48, 49f., 51f.
suction tank inlets, 50, 52f.
Sluice gates, 60
Submerged vortices, 1
Submergence required for minimizing surface vortices,
29, 33f., 34f.
Submersible vertical turbine pump intakes, 11, 14
Sub-surface vortices, 26f., 27
Suction tanks, 9
minimum submergence, 10, 10f., 11f.
multiple inlets or outlets, 11
NPSH considerations, 11
simultaneous inflow and outflow, 11
Sump volume
calculating, 54
decreasing by pump alternation, 57
minimum sequence, 55
operational sequences, 55, 56f.
pump and system head curves, 55, 56f.
Surface vortices
required submergence for minimizing, 29, 33f., 34f.
Swirl, 1
in the suction pipe, 27
meters, 27, 27f.
Symbols, 38
Terminology, 35
Transition manholes, 59
Trench-type intakes, 7, 8f., 9f.
approach velocity, 9
centerline spacing, 9
end wall clearance, 9
floor clearance, 9
inlet conduit elevation, 9
orientation, 9
width, 9
Trench-type wet wells, 16f., 17
Unconfined intakes, 14
cross-flow velocities and pump location, 15
debris and screens, 15
submergence, 15
Variable speed pumps, 58
Velocity, 1
Velocity profiles, 27
Vortices, 1
free surface, 1, 26, 26f.
required submergence for minimizing surface
vortices, 29, 33f., 34f.
submerged, 1
sub-surface, 26f., 27
Wet wells (solids-bearing liquids), 15
cleaning procedures, 17
confined inlets, 16
trench-type, 16f.
vertical transitions, 16
wet well volume, 17
64
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ANSI/HI 9.

American National Standard for

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Copyright 2000 By Hydraulic Institute, All Rights Reserved.

American National Standard for

Pump Intake Design

Approved November 17, 1998

American National Standards Institute, Inc.

Copyright 2000 By Hydraulic Institute, All Rights Reserved.

Approval of an American National Standard requires verification by ANSI that the

Copyright 1998 Hydraulic Institute

Printed in the United States of America

Copyright 2000 By Hydraulic Institute, All Rights Reserved.

Pump intake design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

9.8.1 Design objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Remedial Measures for Problem Intakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Approach flow patterns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Open vs. partitioned structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Expanding concentrated flows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Closed conduit approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Pump inlet disturbances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Velocities in pump bell throat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Tanks suction inlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Minimum sump volume sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Decreasing sump volume by pump alternation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Intake Basin Entrance Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

C-1 Variable speed pumps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Inlet pipe, trench-type wet wells. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Storage in approach pipe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

C-3 Transition manhole, sewer to approach pipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

9.8.21 Recommended suction piping for double suction pumps

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Copyright 2000 By Hydraulic Institute, All Rights Reserved.

Foreword (Not part of Standard)

Definition of a Standard of the Hydraulic Institute

Comments from users

Electric Power Research Institute

an acceptable average velocity range across D (see Table 9.8.3)

submergence S of pump intakes as a function of Froude number FD and D

Formed Suction Intakes

Barrel or Can and Submersible Vertical Turbine Intakes

Solids-Bearing Liquids Applications

Pump Suction Piping

factors for determining when a model test is necessary

recommended instrumentation and testing methods

Reference section (9.8.5)

Inlet Bell Diameter

Flow Chart For Use Of Standard

INLET BELL DESIGN

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Copyright 2000 By Hydraulic Institute, All Rights Reserved.

HI Pump Intake Design 1998

Pump Intake Design

Pump intake design

The intake structure should be designed to allow the

In the application of this standard, the pump rated flow

9.8.2 Intake structures for clear liquids

9.8.1 Design objectives

Specific hydraulic phenomena have been identified

9.8.2.1.1 Approach flow patterns