If I Place an Air Valve There will it Make Surge Worse?
D. Kim Sorensen, P.E.
Applications Engineer
A.R.I. USA
2168 Balboa Avenue, Suite 3
San Diego, CA 92109
(801) 254-2226
ABSTRACT
Water and wastewater systems throughout the USA utilize pump stations, gravity pressure flow, and piping layouts that vary in total system efficiency, reliability, and longevity. These systems often have significant elevation differences as well as operational patterns that increase the possibility of air entering into the pipelines. Typically air valves are employed to reduce the impact of air trapped in our pipeline systems. There have been many reports as well as anecdotal evidence that air valves can increase the magnitude of surges in our pipe systems. But, what really happens in a pipeline during a surge event? What happens at air valves in a surge event?
This paper discusses the use of air valves as way to reduce/control pipeline surge events. There has been a great deal of discussion regarding the use of air valves to control surge events. How they work and how they can help control pipeline surge is discussed in detail. The results of air valve testing in surge conditions and the impact these valves have on pipeline surge are demonstrated. Emerging air valve technologies to help control pipeline transients are discussed.
ARI USA is recognized as the worldwide leader in the engineering, design, manufacture, and application of air valves for the water and wastewater industry. One of A.R.I.’s unique advantages is that we focus exclusively on the effects of air in pipelines to present opportunities for reduction in power costs, reduction in maintenance costs and reducing other negative impacts that are caused by air in pressurized piping systems.
Through this paper and presentation, A.R.I. USA will share the processes and engineering utilized to reduce problems associated with air valve induced surge in pipelines and solutions for improving performance of pressurized pipelines.