Aqua Control Valve

The Aqua Control Valve saves 15-20% of your industrial raw water by compressing air bubbles in the water flow through the pipeline. It creates a compression zone where the pressurized column of water extends upstream and passes the flow meter. When air reaches this pressurized water, it becomes compressed and no longer maintains its volume.

Causes of Air Bubbles in Water Pipelines:

• Maintenance and Repairs: During maintenance work or repairs on the water supply system, air can enter the pipes. When the system is turned back on, the trapped air can create bubbles in the water flow.
• Pressure Fluctuations: Rapid changes in water pressure can cause air to be drawn into the system. This often happens in areas with variable water pressure or when pumps start and stop.
• Leaks: Small leaks in the water pipeline can allow air to enter the system, especially when the water pressure is lower than the atmospheric pressure.
• High Points in the System: Air tends to accumulate at high points in the water supply system. If the system is not properly vented, these air pockets can break free and flow through the pipes, creating bubbles.
• Water Temperature Changes: Temperature changes can cause dissolved gases in the water to come out of solution and form bubbles. For example, when cold water is heated, it releases dissolved air, creating bubbles.

Effects of Air Bubbles in Water Pipelines:

• Cloudy or Milky Water: The presence of air bubbles can make the water appear cloudy or milky. This is usually harmless and should clear up after the water sits for a few moments.
• Noisy Pipes: Air bubbles moving through the pipes can cause noise, such as banging or rattling sounds, which can be annoying.
• Inaccurate Water Meter Readings: Air bubbles can affect the accuracy of water meters. Many water meters measure flow volume, and air passing through the meter can be mistakenly counted as water flow, leading to higher readings and inflated water bills.
• Reduced Water Flow: Air pockets can obstruct the flow of water, reducing water pressure and flow rates at faucets and fixtures.
• Potential Damage: In some cases, large air pockets can cause water hammer or hydraulic shock, which can damage pipes, joints, and fixtures.

Addressing Air Bubbles in Water Pipelines:

To minimize the presence of air bubbles in water pipelines, regular maintenance and proper system design are essential. This includes:

• Ensuring proper venting and air release valves at high points in the system.
• Checking for and repairing leaks promptly.
• Using pressure regulators to maintain stable water pressure.
• Flushing the system periodically to remove trapped air.

Understanding the causes and effects of air in water pipelines can help in managing and mitigating the issues associated with air bubbles, ensuring a more reliable and efficient water supply system.

Impact on Water Meter Readings:

Water meters play a vital role in accurately monitoring water usage and determining utility bills. However, the presence of air in the water supply can interfere with this measurement. Standard water meters are designed to gauge the volume of fluid passing through them, whether it’s water, air, or a mix of both.

When air bubbles pass through the meter, they can cause it to overestimate the water volume. Because air is less dense than water, the meter may wrongly interpret the air bubbles as additional water, leading to inflated readings.

Consequences for Consumers

The consequences of incorrect water meter readings can be substantial for consumers. Overestimations may lead to inflated water bills, causing customers to pay for water they haven’t actually used. For individuals and businesses alike, these additional charges can negatively impact their finances.

Solutions and Mitigation Measures

Advancements in water meter technology are leading to the development of meters that provide enhanced accuracy and are less prone to errors from air bubbles. For example, ultrasonic and electromagnetic meters can distinguish between air and water, offering more accurate measurements even in the presence of air pockets.

The Aqua Control Valve can help pressurize water and minimize air as the water flows through the meter. This can reduce water bills by up to 30%, while at the same time lowering actual water usage by up to 10-15%%.