Low Pressure Propagation at Service Lines

There is copious evidence indicating intrusion of contaminants into the drinking water pipes through the leaking sections due to low pressure events associated with water hammer phenomenon. In this study, an experimental plumbing rig was designed and implemented that replicates the range of pressures encountered in actual service lines and the plumbing systems. This research addresses how a pressure transient triggered within a house and from municipal systems can impact the service lines with a possible suction effect. This experiment also enabled visualization of the various pressure transient phenomena including gaseous cavitation. It is demonstrated that hydraulic transients triggered from water mains result in low pressures events in service lines which can allow possible intrusion of microbial and chemical contaminants at service lines. Structural integrity of service line and hydraulic integrity at water mains should be maintained to minimize any public health risks.