840 Series Surge Suppressors
Description
Water Main Breaks and Associated Problems
Pipe breaks within a distribution system can stem from various causes such as aging, damage, corrosion, poor installation, or incorrect product application. When pipe breaks occur frequently and unexpectedly, it signals excessive forces within the system, posing a threat to the infrastructure. While individual breaks may seem isolated, repeated occurrences indicate systemic issues that need addressing to mitigate risks.
One prevalent issue in distribution systems is Water Hammer, also known as fluid hammer. It occurs when a fluid, like water, experiences a sudden stop or change in direction, resulting in a pressure surge or wave. This phenomenon often happens when a valve is abruptly closed at the end of a pipeline system, causing a pressure wave to travel through the pipe.
Water Hammer conditions occur most often during:
- Sudden Valve Closure (fire hydrants, power failure, etc.)
- Pump Failure
- Check Valve slam (due to sudden deceleration, a check valve may slam shut rapidly, depending upon the dynamic characteristic of the check valve and the mass of water between a check valve and tank).
- Rapid expulsion of air from a vent or partially open valve
- Unexpected pipe breaks or damage – construction damage, traffic accidents, ground shift
- Severe changed in elevation or grade
Distribution systems are susceptible to water hammer and surge conditions, which can lead to excessive vibration, fitting failure, displacement, and pipe wall ruptures, commonly known as breaks.
