A well designed pump intake structure will result in longer pump operating life, reduced maintenance, and a more efficient operation. Physical model studies of pump intakes are conducted at Alden to:
- Improve flow patterns approaching pumps (including the elimination of vortices, pre-rotation or swirl, and non-uniform velocities at the pump bell)
- Develop appropriate remedial changes to assure satisfactory flow conditions at the pump
Alden conducts pump intake flow model studies to analyze approach flow patterns, formation and types of vortices, and swirling flow in the suction pipes of:
- Cooling water intakes
- Reactor containment sumps
- Pump storage intake structures
Studies have also been conducted for cooling tower intakes, flood control pumping stations, sewerage pumping plants, fresh water intakes, and other facilities. Considerable research has been conducted in the area of vortex formation and suppressors and scale effects on vortices in Froude models, both as part of contract research and graduate theses. Papers on scale effects on vortex flows and other topics related to intakes are regularly presented at various national and international meetings. Generic testing to determine flow characteristics in BWR containment pump sumps was conducted at Alden, and these test results led to revised NRC regulatory guidelines.
Alden uses both computational and physical flow modeling for studies, deploying the best tool or combination of tools to answer customer concerns thoroughly at the lowest possible cost.
*Alden’s role in Louisiana flood control projects is limited to modeling and design guidance, and no formally classified “engineering services” requiring a State of Louisiana PE stamp are offered at this time.
