An underwater intake is a crucial hydraulic facility used for extracting water from rivers, lakes, or other water sources. Below is a detailed explanation and classification of underwater intakes:
I. Definition
A Submerged Water Intake is a facility installed at the riverbed, either submerged or semi-submerged, which draws water through its intake openings into the intake pipe. It is the intake portion of the water abstraction structure, primarily serving to introduce water from the source into the conveyance pipeline or pump.
II. Categories
Submersible water pumps are categorized into various types based on their structural characteristics and applicable environments:
Pipe Extraction Head
Definition: A metal bellows tube equipped with a grate at the head, which must be secured to the riverbed using devices such as piles or brackets.
Features: No complex structure required, low cost, easy to construct.
Categories: Include downstream, horizontal, upward vertical, and downward vertical. Each type is suitable for different river conditions and water collection requirements.
Fish-shaped hooded water intake head
Definition: A type of water intake head consisting of the outer periphery of a pipe, with a cylindrical section having conical ends.
Features: Large water entry area with slow flow rate through the inlet holes, making it difficult for floating debris to adhere to the cylinder.
Applicability: Suitable for medium and small-scale water intake structures that directly draw water from pumps.
Mushroom-shaped water pick head
Definition: A metal cover cap is added to the vertical upward pipe-type water intake head.
Features: Less weed intake compared to trumpet tubes, with reduced silt and suspended matter. Mature and reliable construction methods, saving both construction and operation costs.
Applicability: Suitable for medium and small-scale water abstraction structures set in rivers that still have a water depth of over 1 meter during the low water season.
III. Working Principle
The working principle of underwater water intake heads is primarily to draw water from the source through the intake, then remove impurities and particles with a filtration or interception device, and finally introduce the clean water into the water conveyance pipeline or pump through the outlet. Different types of intake heads may vary in filtration and interception, but the overall goal is to ensure the quality and efficiency of water intake.
Four: Cautionary Notes
When designing and constructing an underwater water intake, various factors must be considered, such as hydrological conditions of the river, water quality, and intake requirements. Additionally, attention must be paid to the structural design and material selection of the intake head to ensure its stability and durability. During operation, regular maintenance and cleaning of the intake head are necessary to ensure its proper functioning and extend its service life.
