In a pipeline, trapped air will naturally climb to the top and gather there. This accumulated air can lead to pump failures, inaccurate instrumentation readings, corrosion, flow problems, water hammer, or pressure spikes. The pump has to work harder when there is extra air in the pipeline, which uses more energy. The air in the pipelines is frequently caused by inappropriate de-aeration of the line rather than poor pipe installation or the need for additional equipment.
The three main sources of air in the pipeline are as follows, the pipeline itself isn’t technically empty before starting up; rather, it’s filled with air. The air must be expelled up until the pipeline is full of liquids. Pumped fluid Water has a 2% air volume content. Adhesives and other viscous liquids can create air pockets. The air separates from the fluid as it flows through the system and gathers at system high points you can use ventomat air release valves to draw out such air which is stuck in higher points.Mechanical devices like pumps, packers, valves, and pipe couplings can be used to draw air into the system.
A line restriction happens as air builds up at the system’s high points. This line restriction increases pumping cycles and head loss, which raises energy consumption. The fluid’s velocity rises as it is driven through the constrained pipe. It’s possible that all or some of the air pockets will separate as the velocity rises and be taken downstream. A high-pressure surge or water hammer results from this. Pumps, valves, and pipes can sustain significant damage from pressure surges and water hammers. The major impact of allowing air to build up in system high points is this. If the fluid’s velocity does not remove the air pocket from the system, it will continue to develop until it entirely encloses the system, stopping the flow. Air release valves are designed to continuously expel extra air from the system, ensuring a smooth and effective operation.
In pipelines, automatic air release valves are placed where air naturally gathers at the greatest points. The liquid level is lowered as air bubbles enter the valve and move the liquid about. The float drops when the water level falls to the point where it is no longer buoyant. This action causes the valve to open and release the built-up air into the atmosphere by pulling the seat away from the orifice. Once more buoying the float and rising it till the seat presses against the orifice, shutting the valve, liquid enters the valve as the air is evacuated. To keep the system clear of air, this cycle automatically repeats as often as necessary. Air release valve operation depends on proper installation. These valves should be installed where the air is most likely to accumulate because they are made to release air from the piping system. Install them vertically with the inlet down at system high points.
Air release valves keep the pipeline system efficient and safe. When filling or starting up, these valves are ideal for quickly releasing huge volumes of air. During emptying, they also let air back into the pipeline. This is crucial because certain pipe materials can burst under low pressure. An air release valve starts working automatically as soon as it is placed.
