Did you know that the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America (INGAA) operates over 202,000 natural gas pipelines in the U.S.? These pipelines could wrap around the earth more than eight times.
Piping systems require different parts to work correctly, and one of the most important is the air release valve. Keep reading, and we will walk you through how to choose the correct air release valve to pressurize your client’s piping systems.
What Is an Air Release Valve?
If there is air trapped in one of your piping systems, it can lead to multiple issues. The trapped air will naturally rise and collect and higher points in your pipeline.
This can cause your pump to fail, incorrect readings, corrosion, or when the pipe materials start to deteriorate, stop the flow, or water hammer and pressure surges. It can also result in your pump having to work harder, leading to more energy being consumed and higher bills.
Air release valves act as a vacuum system. They’re installed at the highest point of the pipeline where the air rises and collects. Air bubbles go into the valve; they displace the liquid, which lowers the liquid level.
The valve lowers the level until it no longer floats and then releases it into the atmosphere. As the air is removed, the liquid re-enters the valve and puts pressure on the large orifice until it closes. Then the cycle repeats.
You want to ensure that air valves are installed correctly and that you upkeep with proper pipe maintenance, so you know your system is up and running. It’s best to work with an expert to help you choose between the many different types of air valves.
You will find an air valve release system that works best with your pipeline and, depending on what you need, will exhaust and release air. We will walk you through some of the different types that relieve pressure on your piping systems.
Different Types of Air Valves
There are three different types of air-release valves. These include air-release valves, air/vacuum valves, and combination air valves.
Air release valves are the most popular in pipeline operation. The float that senses the amount of pressure and releases air when there’s too much is a crucial advantage to this type of air valve.
Air/vacuum valves are installed at high and low points of your pipeline system. They exhaust large amounts of air at the beginning of your system and the middle.
After the air is exhausted, it can reenter the pipeline. It would be best if you had an air release valve to relieve your system thoroughly.
Lastly, the combination of air valves is both the air release and vacuum systems. It’s an excellent choice for the high points of your pipeline system.
Having both the vacuum and release helps relieve your piping system’s pressure because they take care of both exhausting breaths of air and then fully releasing it from your system.
You want to make sure any of these systems are installed by an expert, or your pipeline could be at risk. The setup is essential no matter why type of valve you choose.
How to Choose Air Valves for Your Piping Systems
There are a few areas you should familiarize yourself with before talking to an expert about which air valve is best for your pipeline.
- Size: Size is critical and can cause many issues down the line if you don’t choose the correct size valve for your piping system. There is math that can back up what size you need, and it’s best to talk to an expert that knows what they’re doing.
- Type: As we discussed the three types above, you want to get the most efficient type of air valve for your pipes.
Other parts of the valve you want to research are the material and longevity of the type you’re getting. You want to make sure you’re getting a material that will last for a long time and not break easily or need to be replaced.
The most used materials are iron or stainless steel for the body of the air-release valves. Sometimes it’s made out of metal, but this type can require more upkeep and care.
Your piping system is key to your home and business, and you want to get everything right the first time. Any damage can be costly.
Piping Maintenance
Just like any other system or appliance in your home, your piping systems need maintenance. With regular upkeep, you will avoid any costly damages if you didn’t notice something was broken or breaking over time.
You should schedule maintenance once a year to ensure everything is in top shape. It would help if you had an expert plumbing look through everything.
This is what plumbers look for in a yearly maintenance check:
- Water heater
- Faucets
- Supply line
- Shut-off valves
- Toilets
- Drains
- Appliances – washing machines and sump pumps
They will diligently search for corrosion, leaks, and blockages in each system. This includes the piping systems that help keep these appliances up and running.
The yearly check will give you peace of mind that everything is working as it should, and it’s worth a small fee not to have to pay a large price if something breaks.
Get Your Air Valve Set Up Today
Now that you know the ins and outs of air release valves and the different types you can get for your piping systems, you are ready to talk to an expert.
Do your research and talk to an expert before choosing your air valve. Once you’ve selected it, you will feel good knowing that your piping system is in good hands and protected.
Read Also: The 7 Natural Wonders of The World
Make sure to upkeep all of your piping systems and get a maintenance check once a year so that you don’t have to worry about something breaking without you realizing it.
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