All The Basics To Know About Air Release Valves

Posted by Dutco Tennant LLC on March 21st, 2023

An automatic air release valve plays a crucial role in maintaining the optimal performance of pressurised piping systems. These valves are commonly used in water supply networks and various other system applications that involve different media, where there is a risk of air accumulation or high pressure build-up.

The utilisation of suitable air release valves is essential to prevent system failures. When air is trapped or accumulated within the piping system, it can result in inaccurate instrumentation readings, pump malfunctions, pressure surges, water hammer, and other problems.

By installing the appropriate type of air release valves, the trapped air can escape, and the system can operate optimally. This article highlights some critical aspects of air release valves and the various circumstances that necessitate their installation. Keep reading to learn more.

How Does Air Get Into The Pipeline?

Air trapped inside a pipeline naturally rises and collects at high points within the system, leading to a variety of issues. These issues can include decreased efficiency, increased energy consumption, and potential damage to the pipeline system. The root cause of air accumulation is often negligence to properly de-aerate the line after installation, rather than improper pipe or equipment installation.

There are three primary sources from which air can enter the pipeline system. The pipeline itself is one source, as it is often filled with air prior to start-up and requires proper evacuation before being filled with fluid. 

Pumped fluid can also contain trapped air, with water typically containing 2% air by volume and thicker fluids or adhesives potentially containing pockets of trapped air. Finally, mechanical components such as pumps, pipe joints, packing, and valves can draw air into the pipeline system. 

Proper de-aeration and regular maintenance of the pipeline system can help prevent these issues and ensure optimal performance. Aside from that, operators install the high-quality industrial air release valve to deal with air accumulation within the system.

Different Types of Air Release Valves

Air release valves are essential components used in pipelines to release trapped air pockets that may cause flow restriction and other issues. There are several types of air release valves available in the market, each with its own unique features and functions. Some of the most commonly used air release valves include:

Small Orifice Air Release Valves

These are the most commonly used air release valves, designed to discharge small air pockets that form at the highest points of the pipeline. They feature a small precision orifice that releases air under pressure consistently during pipeline operations. 

These valves also contain a float and linkage mechanism that senses the presence of air and opens the orifice to release it under complete pipeline pressures. However, these small orifice air release valves have limited air exhaustion and admission capacity due to the small orifice size.

Large Orifice Air/Vacuum Valves

Air/vacuum valves perform the dual function of drawing air in and releasing air from the pipeline. They are generally installed at high points and downstream of pumps to exhaust large volumes of air when starting up the pump or filling the pipeline. 

These valves also have the capacity to admit large air volumes, which helps operators prevent vacuum conditions from occurring within the pipelines. They feature an automatically operated float that rises with the water level, causing the valve to shut off once the air is exhausted. 

These valves are typically used in pipelines to prevent system collapse or damage and maintain appropriate pressure within the system.

Combination Air Valves

This type of valve combines the functions of air release and air/vacuum valves, featuring a small air release orifice and a large air/vacuum port within a single assembly. Combination air valves are available in both dual and single body formats, with the latter incorporating a float and lever mechanism for smaller valves and the former being recommended for larger valves, consisting of an air release valve piped to an air/vacuum valve.

Single body design offers a cost-effective and compact solution, while dual body design is more suitable for maintenance and sizing purposes. To find the best quality valves for your system application, it is recommended to select the best combination air release valve traders.

Keep in mind that there are various types of valves available, with different design variations and components. It is important to explore all options and consider system parameters to determine the most suitable air release valve for your needs.

Working Mechanism Of Air Release Valve 

Automatic air release valves are designed to be installed at the highest points in a pipeline where air naturally accumulates. As air bubbles enter the valve, the liquid inside the valve gets displaced, causing the liquid level to lower. As the liquid level lowers, the float inside the valve drops as well.

The movement of the float pulls the valve's seat away from the orifice, which opens the valve and releases the accumulated air into the atmosphere. As the air vents out of the system, liquid re-enters the valve, buoying the float once again and lifting it until the seat is pressed against the orifice, closing the valve.

This process repeats automatically as often as necessary to maintain an air-free system. Proper installation of an automatic air release valve is crucial for successful operation.

Conclusion

We at Dutco Tennant LLC are one of the leading air release valve suppliers in Dubaithat have assisted several large-scale projects with our supply of products including the air release valves.

These valves are key requirements in applications where the concern of air accumulation within pipelines emerges. With their use, systems operate smoothly and eliminate the risk of damage or equipment failure or even water hammering effects.

Investing in top-quality air release valves ensures hassle-free pipeline operations. If you have a requirement for air release valves for your system then be sure to visit our website.