By installing Flow-Rite’s Vortex flow and pressure limiter in line between the seacock at the pickup and the pump inlet, the most common problems associated with the use of high speed pickups are virtually eliminated.

Without any moving parts, without any flow path restriction, and without any operator assistance, water pressure and flow rate are automatically controlled in direct proportion to boat speed. Excessive pump inlet pressure at high boat speed is eliminated, yet allows full pump performance at rest. Livewell and baitwell overflows can be sized to meet a nominal pump flow rate without worry of over filling at high boat speeds.

The pump inlet pressure protection provided by the Vortex limiter allows the use of economical centrifugal pumps without fear of excessive pump seal and motor brush wear.

As boat speed increases, the pressure at the Vortex inlet increases. Water is directed past specially designed entry ramps of the flow guide to create a circular flow pattern. As boat speed increases, so does the centrifugal force or pressure of this flow making it increasingly difficult for the flow to move radially inward, toward the center outlet, thus eliminating excessive pressure and flow. As boat speed is reduced, the centrifugal force and pressure are reduced accordingly. The result is a more uniform controlled flow to the pump inlet at all speeds. At zero boat speed, the pump is allowed to function at normal operating parameters.