Anti Vortex Plate

Description

📌 ANTI-VORTEX PLATE

An Anti-Vortex Plate is a specially designed plate installed at the suction inlet of a fluid tank, reservoir, or pump suction line to prevent the formation of vortices and air entrainment during fluid withdrawal. Vortices are swirling motions in the liquid that cause air to be drawn into the suction, which can reduce pump efficiency, cause cavitation, and damage pump components.

Key Function

The Anti-Vortex Plate disrupts turbulent swirling flow at the intake point and promotes smooth, laminar flow into the suction pipe. By stabilizing the fluid surface and flow direction, the plate prevents air bubbles from entering the pump, ensuring reliable performance and protecting internal parts from cavitation and wear.

Typical Use & Application

• Installed at the water or fluid suction point in tanks and reservoirs (including fire protection tanks and pump suction lines). Used in industrial fluid systems, water treatment, irrigation, fire pumps, and storage tanks where fluid is drawn from a free surface.
• Helps systems comply with relevant standards .

Design & Materials

• Usually a horizontal stainless steel plate (or other corrosion-resistant material) placed above the tank bottom near the suction inlet. Typical materials include stainless steels like AISI 304/316, carbon steel, or reinforced polymers depending on environment and fluid type.
• May be flanged, welded, or clamped into place.

Operational Benefits

✔ Reduces vortex formation and air entrainment into the pump suction line.
✔ Improves pump efficiency and reduces risk of cavitation.
✔ Enhances stable, smooth fluid flow without turbulence.
✔ Protects pumps and piping from accelerated wear and potential damage.

Installation Notes

• The plate is typically mounted horizontally above the suction inlet and should be sized appropriately relative to the suction pipeline.
• In many standards the plate diameter should be at least twice the suction outlet diameter and positioned at a set height above the tank bottom to prevent vortices effectively.