Location of Strainer and its orientation

[ullas2711]

Dear All,
We have recently installed a Lowara pump for feeding the fountain nozzles in an outdoor application. But due to space constraint, were unable to install a strainer in the pump suction line. As the fountain is located outdoors, we are continuously facing the problem of nozzles getting choked. My question is, is it ok to install a strainer in the pump delivery line as there is space to accomodate the same. Any other solutions to overcome this problem ? And finally whether y strainer can be installed in vertical lines?

 

[pennpiper]

An interesting question.
I assume you mean the discharge line is vertical with the flow up. Correct?

Since this service is not in a critical chemical process system and no doubt is a small size line and strainer, you might be able to get away doing it.

I suggest you use a "Y" strainer and install it backwards.

This way when you open the case or body to remove the screen any solids or junk will fall out rather back down the line.

prognosis: Lead or Lag

 

[ullas2711]

Hi,
Thanks for the reply. Yes the discharge line is vertical and is of 3" size. You suggested to install the "Y" strainer backwards. Isn't direction of flow important for "Y" strainer?

 

[pennpiper]

ullas2711,
You wrote: "Isn't direction of flow important for "Y" strainer?"

Normally, Yes, directional flow is normally important but there is nothing preventing you from reversing it.
The "Y" strainer normally has the flow enter the bottom leg of the "Y". The grit or contaminates carried in the commodity is collected inside the screen residing in the angle leg of the "Y". The clean fluid (Liquid or gas) goes through the screen and exits via the straight line branch of the "Y".

What I have suggested to you is to reverse the installation, having the flow enter the normal exit branch of the "Y". The contaminates will then be collected on the outside of the screen and the clean commodity will then exit out the normal entry leg of the "Y".
When the screen gets dirty, then you remove the screen and the contaminates will fall out.


prognosis: Lead or Lag

 

[Xalii]

The problem of the Y strainer is that is getting quickly choked, even more if you install it backwards. A basket strainer would be more adapted but it usually only installed horizontally, maybe you can find one for vertical flow...
I would still suggest to try to install an intake screen or strainer at the suction to protect also your pump, there are many types and you could find one fitting your needs and it just need a brush to be cleaned.

 

[JohnGP]

Is it possible to install a dog leg section, to create a short horizontal run for a strainer?

 

[bimr]

Is it possible to fit a strainer into the basin suction?

 

[hydtools]

Can you put a screen cover over the pool of water? Can you put a screen in the pool drain or outlet? Keep the debris from getting into the pool or exiting the pool into the pump intake.

Ted

 

[MJCronin]

Is the suction line drawing from the bottom of the pool ?

Would it be possible to draw from the pool in a location slightly higher in elevation by use of elbows !??

What about a screened inlet inside the pool ?

MJCronin
Sr. Process Engineer

 

[ullas2711]

Hi,
Thank you all for the replies. Yes the pump is drawing from the bottom of the pool and we have put a screen cover over the pool (OASE suction fitting). Now it is not possible to modify the suction line as it is already casted in the concrete. I have found some TORO filters and planning to install the same in the pump discharge line.