PIPES, VALVES AND FITTINGS
MANUFACTURER - ALBION
AS HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS ARE BECOMING A MORE PREVALENT SIGHT ON HORIZONS, IT IS IMPORTANT TO USE ADEQUATE VALVES TO GUARANTEE CORRECT WATER PRESSURE AND AVOID ISSUES… Aim high for valves in skyscrapers S upplying sufficient water pressure to all floors within high-rise buildings has always level as the water leaves the valve through the outlet port. Systems may also experience issues
been a challenge. The design should aim to maintain an even distribution of water to all floors, as well as combat the effect of gravity and ensure the higher floors still receive adequate water pressure. Due to their sheer height, it is common that the municipal water supply pressure will not be adequate to meet the needs of high-risers; these buildings will often require a pressure-boosting system, be in the form of booster pump sets or elevated storage tanks. Without it, the higher floors may receive low water pressure and during peak times all occupants may experience this issue. However, whilst solving one problem, pressure-boosting systems, and the subsequent high pressure, can create further issues. If parts are not capable of operating at such a high pressure, the water pressure may cause damage to the pipes, valves and fittings and potentially cause leaks. With good planning and careful consideration, these issues are usually relatively easy to resolve with high-pressure products and Pressure Reducing Valves (PRVs) in the system. PRVs are set to regulate the water flow to a specific pressure, protecting the equipment throughout the system. They are designed to restrict pressure: as water moves from the inlet port, it must pass through a spring and a diaphragm which will cause resistance and therefore lower the pressure to the desired
if the municipal water supply is cut off or if the pressure-boosting systems fail. The system can be protected by non-return valves, which will prevent the force of gravity from taking the water back downstream and potentially causing damage to the pumps and other equipment. Debris in pipework can clog the pipes and therefore reduce the flow as it passes, which could cause circulation and water pressure issues for the occupants. Strainers can lessen the chances of
pipework becoming clogged by capturing any debris as it attempts to pass the valve, not allowing it to make its way further into the system. Isolation valves are another example of a valve that would need to be installed throughout a system, as they allow engineers to
Albion ART 167 Check Valve.
isolate a section of the system to carry out routine maintenance and emergency repairs. Albion’s PN25 range includes butterfly valves, non-return valves, strainers, a double regulating valve and an orifice plate. They are available for next-day delivery.
Contact George McGuire T: +44 (0)7939 973 273 E: gmcguire@albionvalvesuk.com www.albionvalvesuk.com
Albion ART 187 Strainer.
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