In pipelines, there are some sources of air that need to be exhausted while filling. When the pipeline is filled, sufficient amounts of air are pushed downstream and are discharged via faucets, hydrants and other mechanical equipment. A large amount of air is required to release that gets entrapped at the pipeline system’s high points. Here air pressure release valves work best. Read this blog to explore a lot about these valves.
What are air pressure release valves?
Air pressure release valves are usually used in various water and irrigation schemes to guarantee that any kind of entrapped air in the water system is released automatically. It can elevate the performance of your system. Did you know that entrained air can cause severe head loss along with a reduction in flow if the air is not released effectively? Automatic air pressure release valves offer a vital role in any pressurized piping system.
What is the main purpose of using air pressure release valves?
Any water piping system needs to remain under stable operating conditions. Piping systems operators know that the inclusion of air in a water transport system will always have negative effects like pressure fluctuations, water flow reductions, pumps running dry, effects of water hammer etc. Due to all these reasons, the necessity for air pressure release valves arises to release either small or large quantities of entrapped air from the water transport systems.
Air pressure release valves are also used at the time of pipe drainage by maximizing the water’s exiting outflow while at the same moment guaranteeing the pipes are subjected to vacuum situations. Air pressure release valves are also designed for automatically releasing trapped air which accumulates especially at the highest points at the time of water transfer. You can contact one of the leading suppliers of air pressure release valves.
What are the main sources of air entrapping in pipelines?
Sometimes air gets into the pipeline because of improper installation of pipeworks or other supplemental tools. Air comes from three main sources in the pipelines.
a) Fluid which is pumped
We all know that water has two per cent of air by volume and many other fluids especially the thick ones like adhesives can easily entrap air. When any fluid moves through your system, the air gets separated from the respective fluid and agglomerates at high points of the system.
b) Pipelines themselves
Pipelines are not technically empty but filled with air. So, it is always recommended to evacuate air first until the fluid is filled.
c) Any mechanical tools
Sometimes air is drawn into your pipeline system by some mechanical equipment such as valves, pumps, pipe joints etc.
How do air pressure release valves work?
Air pressure release valves are generally installed at your pipeline system’s highest points as these are the points where the air gets collected naturally. Air bubbles enter the valves and quickly displace the inside fluid. by lowering the level of liquid. While the level drops down to where the buoys do not float, the float gets dropped. It is this motion pulling the seat from the orifice by triggering the air pressure release valve to open and discharge the entrapped air into the atmosphere. When the air is released, the fluid again enters this valve and again buoys the float until its seat is pressed against that orifice by closing the air valve. This entire cycle repeats automatically for maintaining a proper air-dree pipeline system.
One thing to note down is a proper installation is vital for the correct operation of air pressure release valves. Why? As they are constructed to release air from your piping system, you must place them where the air is likely to gather. So, always try to install these valves at the high points of your system in a vertical position.
How do the main three floats of air pressure release valves produce functions?
1. Small orifice float
The small orifice float contains the nozzle subset and guarantees that the air release valve can automatically release entrapped air when your pipe is full.
2. Large orifice float
Large orifice float allows air inflow and releases at the time of filling & drainage.
3. RFP upper float
The RFP float stays open to fill your pipe but at a controlled rate. Supposedly the exit flow rate of fluid exceeds the safest working rate, it rises fast & chokes air release to the safest operating rate by preventing water hammer.
Some other applications of air pressure release valves?
Both the water transport system and sewer force mains are the most used area for air pressure release valves. Sometimes, air pressure release valves are also used in closed-loop and pressurized piping systems.
So, you must have understood the importance of air pressure release valves that play a pivotal role in controlling surges and water hammer effects. These valves can be used in various applications in piping systems. You can reach out to one of the leading suppliers of air pressure release valves in the Middle East and GCC region.
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