Commercial air valves are hydromechanical devices with the purpose of getting air and wastewater gases. They are also used to bring in the air during draining, filling, or operating liquid piping systems.

As water has 2% air, it could cause a rise or drop in temperature in the pipeline. Air can also get admitted due to equipment such as fittings and pumps. Air valves are therefore crucial for getting rid of the air so that it does not affect the efficiency of water supply systems.

 

Types of Air Valves

Here are the different types of commercial air valves:

Air and Vacuum Valves

They release large quantities of air through non-pressurized pipes. Air and vacuum valves are mostly used to fill a line. They also allow letting in the air when the pressure suddenly drops while lines are drained.

Automatic Air Release Valves

These valves consistently let out small amounts of air through a pressurized line. The automatic air release valves are also called small orifice air valves or air pressure valves.

Combination Air Valves

Combination air valves can function as both air and vacuum valves and automatic air release valves. They can release or admit large quantities of air when filling or draining a water supply system.

Why Should Air Valves Be Installed by a Professional?

Commercial air valves are essentially used to release or admit air in a pipeline. Excess air in a pipeline can negatively affect the efficiency of a water supply system. For air valves to function properly, it is important to have them installed by a trained professional. If you attempt to perform the task yourself, there is a high chance of making mistakes, causing air to get stuck in the pipelines. As a result, several issues may arise, such as:

• Reduced efficiency of the pump
• Air pockets leading to hydraulic jumps in the pipe along with a blowback effect that can damage the system
• Air pockets leading to an increase in head loss and a reduction in the flow rate of water
• Air pockets in ferrous pipes leading to an increase in corrosion
• Air pockets rise in surge pressure during hydraulic transients
• Trouble with measuring and filtering operations

 

Effective installation of commercial air valves by a trained professional has several advantages. Rightly functioning air valves can:

• Avoid cavitation damage
• Removal of high-pressure surges
• Accuracy in measurement of fluid flow
• Minimized energy loss
• Reduced wear of moving parts
• Better pumping efficiency
• Better drainage efficiency

Commercial air valves need to be installed at high areas for proper venting. Installation is best handled by a trained professional; otherwise, it may reduce the efficiency of the pipeline. Air valves also need to be safeguarded from contamination, freezing, and flooding.

At Ventomat Australia, we supply air valves all across the Asia Pacific Regions. If you plan to get one installed, click here to contact us or dial +61 (02) 8814 9699 today!