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Selection and Sizing of Air Release Valves

A. Bhatia, B.E.


Course Outline

Air valves are used to release the air from air pockets that are formed in pipelines. Air enters pipeline in many ways causing problems for the distribution system operators. The process of corrosion can occur even with small traces of air, flow is reduced and permanent damage may occur to pipes and pumps.

This 2-hour course will describe the basic theory of air valves; explain their operation, and list ways and tools to specify, to locate, and to size them for maximum flow efficiency and surge protection.

This course includes a multiple-choice quiz at the end, which is designed to enhance the understanding of the course materials.

Learning Objective

At the conclusion of this course, the student will understand:

Intended Audience

This course is aimed at mechanical and process engineers working on oil and gas, power, chemical and water distribution projects.

Benefit to Attendees

The course will be extremely helpful to the readers who desire to build on their knowledge on water distribution networks and the skilled professionals who have learnt the trade informally on the job.

Course Introduction

Air valves are used for the release of air pockets in water lines. When air is allowed to accumulate in pressurized pipelines, efficiency is sacrificed and serious damage can occur. An air valve is designed to allow the automatic discharge of large amounts of air from the water main, while it is being filled, and also to allow air to enter the water main, when the water line is being emptied. It will also allow the air to escape the water main when it is in operation and under pressure.

This course provides understanding of air valves, application and sizing practices.

Course Content

This course content is in the following PDF document:

Selection and Sizing of Air Release Valves

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Course Summary

Air pockets will form at the high points in a fully pressurized pipeline, which can cause many problems such as corrosion, poor flow efficiency, water hammer problems, poor pressure control, damaged pumps and broken pipes.

Air control valves work in a two-fold manner. They discharge air from the line, while it is being filled, yet, will let air into the line, as it is being emptied. Also, this valve will allow air out of the line when it is in operation and under pressure. There are three basic types of air control valves; 1) Air & vacuum valves with large orifice; 2) Air release valves with small orifice and 3) Combo valves which incorporate both previous types into one single device. It is not unusual for applications to require all these to help the system operate at peak efficiency.

Quiz

Once you finish studying the above course content, you need to take a quiz to obtain the PDH credits.

DISCLAIMER: The materials contained in the online course are not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of PDH Center or any other person/organization named herein. The materials are for general information only. They are not a substitute for competent professional advice. Application of this information to a specific project should be reviewed by a registered architect and/or professional engineer/surveyor. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at their own risk and assumes any and all resulting liability arising therefrom.