Pressure Drop in Pump Suction

[DGrayPPD]

Good morning,

We are looking to reduce pressure drop in our pump suction lines. To do this, the suggestion was made to increase the suction piping and nozzle by one line size (from 3" to 4" NPS).

My only concern that I'm asking about is that this line reduces back down to 3" further upstream to tie into a 3" flexible hose for offloading product from the tanker truck. I know the pump suction piping should be the same size or larger than the pump suction nozzle, which the piping is, but should the smaller hose bring any cause for concern to me?

This is the same project I have asked about in the past.

I am just looking for a little peace of mind regarding this scenario. It is unique and I've made the suggestion to contact the pump vendor and verify that they do not see any issues with this scenario. But does anyone else have experience with this situation?

See attached for a rough sketch.

 

[KoachCSR]

To directly answer your post, I don't see any cause for concern - provided you've validated your NPSHa vs. NPSHr, I see no issues.

General question though: how long is your 3" flex hose? I'm guessing that's likely your greatest source of pressure drop. I also assume you're having the pump vendor change out the nozzle on the pump, as well.

 

[DGrayPPD]

Thanks KoachCSR,

Just wanted to be sure. Yes, the pump nozzle will be changed and I attached a picture of the existing hose. As far as I know we will be reusing it and adding a second.