Flow Optimizer® Bellmouth
A smoother entrance into the pump.Contoured pump suction bellmouths and intake suction bells, selected around your connection, clearances and operating conditions.
A SMOOTHER START AT THE PUMP INLET
Condition the flow before it enters the pump.
The Flow Optimizer® Bellmouth uses a smooth, contoured inlet to guide liquid into the pump suction and reduce abrupt changes in direction at the entrance.
Explore available sizes, see actual installations, and share your pump arrangement with our team to discuss the right fit for your application.
Smoother inlet flow
A gradual entrance profile helps reduce flow separation as liquid enters the intake.
Lower entrance losses
A contoured inlet addresses the abrupt transition associated with a sharp-edged entrance.
Application-specific fit
Review intake size, flange details, available clearance, and operating conditions with our team.
HOW IT WORKS
The entrance profile makes a difference.
A bellmouth provides a gradual, contoured transition into the suction opening. The smooth inlet profile is designed to reduce flow separation and entrance losses compared with an abrupt, sharp-edged entrance.
The benefit depends on how liquid approaches the intake and on the complete pump system. Review the bellmouth geometry together with the pump, flow range and installation clearances.
Review the complete intake arrangement.
Include floor and wall clearance, operating liquid levels, approach flow and nearby obstructions in the application review.
Any proposed change to operating water levels should be evaluated with the responsible engineer and pump manufacturer. A bellmouth alone does not establish acceptable submergence or guarantee freedom from cavitation or air entrainment.
For more complex flow conditions, explore CFD and modeling support.
Sizes & materials
Listed sizes use an ANSI bolt pattern. Standard material: 316 stainless steel.
| Size “d” | Height |
|---|---|
| 2.375 inches | 2.0 inches |
| 3.5 inches | 2.5 inches |
| 4 inches | 2.75 inches |
| 6 inches | 3.75 inches |
| 8 inches | 4.75 inches |
| 10 inches | 5.75 inches |
| 12 inches | 6.75 inches |
| 14 inches | 7.75 inches |
| 16 inches | 8.75 inches |
| 18 inches | 9.75 inches |
| 20 inches | 10.75 inches |
Confirm dimensions, flange requirements, and fit with Flow Optimizers before ordering.
Drawing references
Browse the drawings, or open a reference below for a closer look.
Drawing references open as images in a new tab. Confirm the applicable drawing and final dimensions for your project before ordering.
See bellmouths in actual projects
Explore installations using bellmouths and integrated pump suction extensions.
Tell us about your pump intake.
Use this checklist to prepare your application details. Send the information you have; our team can help identify what else is needed.
- Pump and inlet size: Pump type, model, and suction diameter.
- Flange details: Applicable standard, bolt circle, and connection dimensions.
- Available clearance: Distance from the intake to the wet-well floor and nearby walls.
- Operating conditions: Liquid handled, flow rates, and operating water levels.
- Project information: Drawings, installation photos, and the inlet-flow or maintenance issue you want to address.
Bellmouth questions, answered
What is the purpose of a pump suction bellmouth?
A bellmouth provides a smooth transition into the pump intake. Its contoured entry is designed to reduce entrance losses and flow separation. Performance depends on the complete intake arrangement and operating conditions.
What sizes and materials are available?
The listed sizes range from 2.375 to 20 inches for size “d”, with heights from 2.0 to 10.75 inches. See the sizes and materials table above for the height of each size. Standard material is 316 stainless steel. Confirm dimensions, flange requirements, and fit with Flow Optimizers before ordering.
Can a bellmouth be retrofitted into an existing system?
A retrofit may be possible after reviewing the existing flange connection, intake geometry, clearances, and operating conditions. Share drawings or photographs so Flow Optimizers can assess the application.
What types of pumps can be considered?
Pump applications include centrifugal, chopper, grinder, self-priming, vertical turbine, air operated diaphragm, circumferential piston, double disc, hose, progressing cavity, and rotary lobe pump applications. Suitability should be reviewed for the specific pump and system.
Will a bellmouth reduce maintenance costs?
Maintenance results depend on the wet-well layout, solids loading, operating levels, and pump controls. Discuss your current cleaning frequency and operating issues with Flow Optimizers to assess the application.
How long should a bellmouth last?
Service life depends on the liquid, material, operating conditions, and maintenance. Ask Flow Optimizers about material suitability and inspection needs for your application.
What information is needed for a quote?
Start with your pump model, suction diameter, flange dimensions, available clearance, and operating conditions. Drawings and photos help the team review the fit. Use the checklist above to prepare your inquiry.
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