Water pipelines and distribution systems can be subjected to surge events on a daily basis, caused by sudden changes in the fluid velocity / flow rates. Some of these unwanted surge events can cause pipeline failures and bursts, which then result in the main having to be drained repaired and then refilled. If this refilling is not controlled closely then a new surge event and a new burst can be caused by the standard combination (double orifice) or vacuum air valves within the pipeline.
The CSA RFP air valve technology is designed as an effective solution against pressure surges and transients caused by rapid filling of a pipeline, by automatically slowing down the approaching water column as it gets close to the air valves location, without limiting the needed inlet orifice required to prevent vacuum conditions in the event of a burst or having to drain the pipeline. The air valve also ensures the release of air pockets while the pipeline is under pressurised working conditions.