Flow Optimizers recently shipped a custom 4-inch Bellmouth Pump Suction Extension for Falcon Environmental.
This compact flow conditioning component is designed to help improve submersible pump performance by moving the pump suction intake closer to the floor of the wet well. In many wastewater and stormwater applications, submersible pumps are installed with the suction intake positioned too high above the wet well floor. Over time, this can contribute to solids buildup, clogging, vibration, entrained air, and premature pump wear.
The Flow Optimizer® Pump Suction Extension offers a practical retrofit solution.
Whether the issue is poor suction conditions, solids buildup, vibration, entrained air, or limited submergence, Flow Optimizers can help evaluate the application and recommend a practical solution.
Why Suction Elevation Matters in a Wet Well
When a submersible pump’s suction intake is too high, solids can settle below the pump instead of being drawn into the pumping cycle. This buildup can create ongoing maintenance issues and may contribute to poor pump performance.
A properly designed suction extension helps lower the effective pump intake elevation, allowing the pump to draw from closer to the floor of the wet well. This can improve solids movement, reduce dead zones, and support smoother pump operation.
Benefits of a Pump Suction Extension Bellmouth
The 4-inch Bellmouth Pump Suction Extension shipped for Falcon Environmental was designed to:
- Move the pump suction closer to the floor of the wet well
- Lower the pump-down level
- Help reduce solids buildup
- Reduce the risk of entrained air entering the pump
- Condition the flow as it enters the pump
- Support smoother and quieter pump operation
- Help reduce vibration and premature wear
A Simple Retrofit for Common Wet Well Problems
Engineers, contractors, and pump station operators often encounter applications where the pump intake is positioned higher than ideal. This can be especially problematic in wet wells where solids settle below the suction point.
The Flow Optimizer® Pump Suction Extension is designed to address this issue by extending the suction intake downward while improving the way flow enters the pump. The bellmouth-style inlet helps guide the flow smoothly into the suction, reducing turbulence and helping the pump operate more efficiently.
Custom Built for Pump Station Applications
The unit shown is a 4-inch x 8-inch x 12-inch Pump Suction Extension, fabricated for a specific pump station application. Flow Optimizers designs and builds custom suction extensions, bellmouths, elbows, baskets, and flow conditioning inserts for municipal, industrial, and wastewater systems.
Whether the issue is poor suction conditions, solids buildup, vibration, entrained air, or limited submergence, Flow Optimizers can help evaluate the application and recommend a practical solution.
Need Help Improving Pump Suction Performance?
If your pump intake is too high in the wet well, a custom suction extension may help improve performance and reduce maintenance issues.
Contact Paul at Flow Optimizers to discuss your application.