Why is a orifice plate installed on the minimum return line at the outlet of a general centrifugal pump?
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I have a question for everyone: why is it necessary to install an orifice plate on the minimum return line at the outlet of a centrifugal pump? Thank you.
Reply 1# fwlovesl: The flow rate of the medium passing through the orifice plate is close to the pump’s minimum flow rate; once the pump is started, simply opening the valve is sufficient, and there is no need to use valves for regulation in order to facilitate control.
Reply to 2# dongyingkaifa: Since it’s a minimum reflux line, it should at least ensure that there is flow at the pump inlet when the container is empty. If a orifice plate is installed, the flow rate will decrease significantly – wouldn’t that render the purpose of the reflux line meaningless?
Centrifugal pumps have a minimum return flow rate, which is the lowest flow rate required to ensure that the pump can remain in operational condition and its components are not damaged by the temperature rise caused by the liquid being pumped. The container is empty; any pump will get damaged---
It is mainly considered from the perspective of the safe operation of the pump; the flow rate at the orifice plate represents the minimum flow rate required for the safe operation of the pump. When the container is empty, that is not within the scope considered for designing the minimum flow line.