Chapter 1.

INTRODUCTION
1.0. BACKGROUND

Plumbing is the system of pipes, drains, fittings, valves, and fixtures installed for the
distribution of potable water for drinking, heating and washing, and waterborne waste removal.
"Plumbing" also refers to the skilled trade which deals with installation and maintenance.
“Plumbing" often denotes the supply and waste system of an individual building, distinguishing
it from water supply and sewage systems that serve a group of buildings.

The water supply system is an integral part of the building construction. Water-supply
infrastructure consists of what is built to pump, divert, transport, store, treat, and deliver safe
drinking water. Water itself is the most important component in the regular life of an individual.
So, to make it available to the building residents, water piping system is important depending
on the requirement of use. A plumbing system serves two purposes: to supply water for human
use, and to get rid of human wastes. It consists of a store of water that is delivered to various
outlets via a distribution system.

Following this primary concern, engineers design but with various parameters to be kept in
mind like discharge & pressure of water that must be fixed for the application of water supply
in that part of the building. That is, discharge is fixed according to the UIPC-2014 Indian Code
for water supply to kitchens, bathrooms, water closets, basins, filters. Similarly, pressure
generated at the end of the pipes for water supply is also fixed. Following these parameters-
pressure, water discharge & flow velocity, cross section of the pipe is chosen. Diameters of the
pipes are fixed for the residential building with reference to the code depending on how much
water supply should be made at a particular location of the residential building.

A properly systematic course in Plumbing is not available in India. Plumbing though crucial
but remained as neglected subject. As a result, there is a great demand to well-trained Plumbing
Professionals in the building industry.

Indian Plumbing Association (IPA) has adopted, reviewed and revised the Uniform Plumbing
Code of International association of Plumbing and Mechanical officials to suit Indian practices,
customs and Laws. The code is published as Uniform Plumbing Code – 2008 India (UPC1).

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Need of proper use of Plumbing code must be code based education and training in Plumbing
will have better job opportunities and improved income. The formal education in Plumbing
will improve the plumbing system design and installation standards, thereby ensuring health
and safety of people, structure and environment.

The 2014 Uniform Illustrated Plumbing Code – India (UIPC- I), is a set of recommendations
to all those who are involved in the design engineering construction or manufacturing of
plumbing system and products.

The first edition of the UPC was officially adopted in North America by IAPMO in 1945, based
on the recommendations of the committee comprising of the plumbing inspectors, master and
journeymen plumbers, sanitary and mechanical engineers, public utility companies and the
plumbing industry. The rapid development of the INDIAN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY in
the past two decades required the Plumbing Industry to keep pace with the modern plumbing
technology. For this, the code standards and practices required improvements to be comparable
to International Standards. With an intent to incorporate and implement the latest technology
and systems for the protection of public health and hygiene, and bring uniformity to the
installation of plumbing works throughout the country, the IPA has ventured into the
preparation of a uniform code, applicable all over India. In this endeavor, the IPA has entered
into an agreement with IAPMO to use, adapt, edit and supplement the UPC published them

The UPC – I was first published in 2008 and it is IPA’s intention to revise, update and republish
this document at regular intervals in the future. 2014 UIPC – I is based on the 2012 version of
the Uniform Plumbing Code. The 2008 and 2011 versions of this publication were in two
volumes, namely the UPC-I and Illustrated Training Manual. For the convenience of the users
of this publication, the Technical Committee has created this unique document which contains
all the parts from the two volumes published hitherto. The 2014 UIPC-I has been prepared by
the technical committee comprising of some of the eminent Consultants, Project Managers,
Contractors and Manufacturers in the country, specially formed for this purpose by the IPA.
The Committee has been supported in this endeavor by leading professional in the industry.

1.1 OBJECTIVES
In this project, the aim is to design piping system for water supply, drainage, storm water
and vent based on the code provisions given in 2014 Uniform Illustrated Plumbing Code -
INDIA.

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Chapter 2. DESCRIPTION OF WATER SUPPLY, DRAINAGE,
STORM WATER AND VENT PIPELINE
2.1 WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM
A system in plumbing which provides and distribute water to the different parts of the building
or structure, for purpose such as drinking , cleaning, washing etc. It includes the water
distributing pipes, control devices and other equipment and appurtenances.

2.1.1 System layout and pipework

The water supply system must be designed to achieve appropriate water pressure and flow, and
to avoid contamination to potable water.

As well as avoiding contamination and achieving the right pressure and flow, the system must
be suitable for the temperature of water carried. A well-designed and installed system will also
be durable, minimize noise from water flow and from problems such as water hammer, and
support efficient use of water.

All water supply systems use a combination of pipes (of different dimensions and materials),
valves and outlets to deliver water to building users. Some water supply systems also use
storage tanks and pumps. Designing a water supply system involves getting all of these
elements right so that clean water is delivered to the user at the appropriate rate and
temperature.

2.1.2 Water pressure

If the aim is to provide for building users’ needs while also using water efficiently, the right
water pressure is crucial. If water pressure is too low, this will be inconvenient for building
users – for example, because showers have poor water flow, and baths take a long time to fill.
If pressure is too high, this will lead to wastage of water, as well as high wear and tear on the
system.

Typically, new buildings in areas with mains water supply will have mains pressure systems.
Existing buildings, and buildings that are not connected to mains water, may have low pressure
systems or unequal pressure systems (with different pressures for hot and cold water supply).

As an example of the difference in water usage, a low pressure hot water system shower flow
may average about 7 liters per minute, while a mains pressure shower may average around 12–
20 liters per minute.

Mains pressure systems require pressure limiting and pressure reducing valves to control water
pressure and temperature. Typically, pressure limiting or pressure reducing valves will be used

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 to control pressure in mains-supplied hot water systems or where high pressure may lead to
problems such as burst pipes.

Low pressure systems require few valves or controls. In low or unequal pressure systems,
pressure can be increased to adequate levels by storing water in a header tank (typically in the
ceiling space) so that gravity can be used to create water pressure. If a tank is being used, see
the BRANZ publications Water and Plumbing for details of installation requirements.

Pressure can also be raised to adequate levels using a pressurizing pump, in which case it may
be necessary to use pressure limiting and pressure reducing valves.

2.1.3 Water flow rate

The Building Code requires that sanitary fixtures and appliances have adequate water supply
at an adequate flow rate.

As with water pressure, flow rates are crucial. A flow rate that is too high will result in water
being wasted, whereas a flow rate that is too low will mean that sanitary fixtures and appliances
don’t work properly.

Flow rate is affected by:

 Water pressure
 Pipe diameters – The smaller the internal diameter of the pipe, the lower the pressure and flow
rate. (Note that pipes are generally referred to by their inside nominal diameter (DN), but it is
actually the internal diameter that counts; a pipe rated as DN 15 may have an actual inside
diameter ranging between 10–18 mm.)
 Water temperature – higher temperatures will tend to raise pressure and flow rates (note: also
see materials below).
A flow regulator can be used to maintain a constant flow, independent of water pressure. As
an example, if someone is in the shower and the kitchen tap is turned on full, the temperature
and flow are likely to remain more stable if a flow regulator is used.

Limiting the flow for a tap or appliance to a reasonable rate helps balance the available pressure
throughout the system. Regulating flow allows a simpler design and minimum pipe sizes as
peak flow rates can be specified accurately and can also reduce noise, splashing taps, and water
hammer.

Manufacturers’ recommendations must be referred to for pressure and flow information when
selecting tempering valves and outlets (taps, mixers and shower heads).Flow rate can also be
controlled by specifying low-flow outlets.

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 2.1.4 Flow rate and pipe size Acceptable Solutions
Building Code compliance document G12/AS1 sets out Acceptable Solution for flow rates and
pipe sizes. Pipes must be sized to achieve flow rates set out in accordance with Table 3 (see
table below), or the pipes must be sized in accordance with Table 4.

When calculating pipe size, the speed of the water (velocity) moving through the pipes must
not exceed 3.0 m/s.

The flow rates in Table 3 must be capable of being delivered simultaneously to the kitchen sink
and one other fixture.

2.1.5 System layout

In the design process, the layout of the plumbing system will largely follow room layout.
Nonetheless, there are many things to consider which relate to Code compliance, building
users’ comfort, and sustainability.

When planning a water supply layout, the following must be considered:

 Pipe runs and lengths – Keep pipe runs as short as possible. Pass pipes close to fixtures to
minimize the number of branches and unnecessary elbows, tees and joints. Having longer pipe
runs and more fixtures will reduce flow rate, increase heat losses, and increase use of materials
 Point of entry into the building – This should be into a utility space such as garage/laundry and
include an accessible isolating valve, line strainer and pressure limiting valve (if required)
 Water heating system – Locate centrally to reduce the length of pipe runs to fixtures because
longer pipe runs require more water to be drawn off before hot water is discharged. Install a
separate point-of-use water heater for fixtures that are more than 10 m from the main water
heater
 Noise prevention – Avoid running pipes over or near bedrooms and living areas.

2.1.6 Backflow
Backflow is the unplanned reversal of flow of water (or water and contaminants) into the water
supply system. The system must be designed and used to prevent contamination from backflow.

2.1.7 Mains connection

Where the water source is a mains supply, the network utility operator is responsible for the
water supplied to the property boundary. The property owner is then responsible for providing
the pipework to bring the water into the building. An isolating valve must be fitted at the point
of connection to allow for maintenance and repair of the building’s water supply system if
required.

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2.1.8 Pipe materials and specifications
The pipes used in a building must not contaminate potable water supply, and must be suitable
for the water pressure, flow rate and temperature of water they will be carrying. This will be
influenced by the materials used and also by other factors such as the wall thickness.

Other considerations are durability, ease of installation, cost, and sustainability. Common
materials include copper, polybutylene (PB), un-plasticized polyvinylchloride (uPVC or PVC-
U), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP-3 or PP Type 3), and cross-linked polyethylene
(PEX).

Size of pipes is based on:

• Frictional losses
• Location of fixture
• Head available/required
• Developed length
• Pipe material
• Type of joints
• Water quality
• Water temperature
• Corrosion

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 (Source: UIPC – I, 2014, Page: 185)

2.2 DRAINAGE PIPELINE

All the piping within a public or private premises which conveys sewage, rainwater or other
liquid wastes to a point of disposal. A drainage system does not include the mains of public
sewer systems or a private or a public sewage treatment or disposal plant. Pipes installed to
remove the wastewater and water-borne wastes from plumbing fixtures and convey these to the
sanitary sewer and other point of disposal. That part of the drainage that extends from the end
of the building drain and conveys its discharge to the public sewer, private sewer, and
individual sewage disposal system, or other appropriate point of disposal.

Size is based on:

I. Location of tank (head) or HPS (head).
II. Pressure 0.5 -5.5 bars (1-3 bars safe zone)
 Velocity:
Cold water 2.4 – 3.5 m/s
Hot water 1.2 – 1.5 m/s
 Standard diameters:
Depending upon the material of pipe.
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Drainage Pipe Sizing:
 Sinks, dishwashers to have drainage of Minimum 50 mm (even though DFU = 2 / vertical
pipe is 38 mm).
 Only 4 WCs or 6 unit traps allowed on vertical stack (for 75 mm drainage pipe).
 Only 3 WCs or 6 unit traps allowed on horizontal branch or drain (for 75 mm drainage
pipe).
 Horizontal Drainage line slope: 1:50 (2%).
 For slope of 1:100, multiply Maximum units by 0.8.
 Fixtures with DFU of 6.0 can have a drain pipe of 50 / 65 mm; flow is too large. So must
use 75 mm drainage pipes.

Minimum Plumbing facilities: Each building shall be provided with sanitary facilities, as
prescribed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

2.3 VENTS
A plumbing vent is a pipe provided to ventilate a plumbing system to prevent trap Siphonage
& back pressure or to equalize the air pressure within the drainage system. The fixture trap
must be provided against Siphonage & back pressure by means of a vent system. The protection
of trap and its trap seal by a vent has allowed the plumbing fixture, to be placed safely inside a
building. Without a vent the trap is subjected to Siphonage or back pressure which would allow
the sewer gas to enter the building or room.

The consequences of sewer gas escaping the drainage system and entering the room can be
lethal, as was proven in the SARS epidemic reported in Hong Kong, China in 2003, where 65
deaths occurred and 321 people were infected from the virus transmitted in part through dry
tracks.

2.3.1 Vent Pipe Sizing

•Individual Vent pipe will be min. 32 mm
•Not less than ½ size of the drain to which it is connected
•Horizontal length 1/3rd that of vert. length
•Increase in 1 pipe size eliminates length restrictions – horizontal & vertical
•40 mm vent CANNOT be used for WC or 6 unit traps

Vent pipe Sizing Table 7.5

Vertical length – Horizontal 1/3rd

Fig 2.1 (Source: UIPC – I, 2014, Page: 251)

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2.4 STORM WATER DRAINAGE
Storm water drainage is the building drain that conveys storm water only, but no sewage used
for conveying rainwater, surface water condensate cooling water for similar liquid wastes

There are two basic methods used to deal with storm water that falls upon the roof or in and
around the building. The methodology used will depend on how the buildings designed and the
type of public disposal system used in the area. The methods are:

1. Gravity drainage: in small one or two store buildings, water may be permitted to drain
off the roof and the other areas to the ground. Thereafter the storm water will flow away
naturally from the buildings to storm drains or in some cases to the street.
2. Separate storm and sanitary drainage system: Water may accumulate on the roof
because of building design and the building storm water drainage system is installed,
which should consist of a primary and a secondary system. Storm water is then carried
away to either a collection point or to the graded area around the building and flows
naturally away from the building. The building and public sewer system is only sanitary
system and may not collect storm water. There may be a storm drainage system, but it
is independent of the sanitary system.

Fig 2.2: Separate Drainage Systems-Sanitary and Storm

(Source: UIPC – I, 2014, Page: 285)

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2.4.1 Primary Roof Drainage System

Paramount to eliminating the threat of roof collapse due to water accumulation is the
installation of roof drains or gutters. Roof Drains are generally installed on flat roofs or roofs
surrounded by parapet walls. Roof pitch as well as proper sizing in accordance with local
climatic conditions is the basis for the design of the roof drainage system.

2.4.2 Secondary Roof Drainage System

To ensure that rainwater accumulation on a roof is drained away, two independent systems of
roof drainage maybe required. They are the primary and secondary roof drainage systems,
commonly referred to as an “Overflow System”. The primary system consists of roof drains,
piping serving those drains and the discharge method used – either surface or gravity drainage
or pumped drainage. The secondary system ensures that if the primary system or the primary
drains are clogged or overloaded, the secondary system will handle the rainwater and drain it
away protecting the building and its occupants from harm.

Secondary roof drainage system can be of two method – roof scuppers and open side of parapet
walls. The secondary roof drains can be of two types – roof drains with an independent piping
system or roof drains that combine with the primary roof drainage piping, which will require
an increase in piping size.

Fig 2.3: Primary and Secondary Roof Drains

(Source: UIPC – I, 2014, Page: 291)

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Chapter 3. DESIGNING OF WATER SUPPLY PIPELINES
Our proposed building is a (G+1) residential building.

To Design the pipe size and their corresponding lengths and pressures, we need to know
the demand of water required in the building by the residents.

Our building is supplied by Municipal Water Supply, which is intercepted by a water meter
with a pipeline network, where the water is supplied to the tank via a pipeline at a distance of
14 meter from the highest outlet of the building.

3.1 DEMAND LOAD

3.1.1 Supply Demand

Estimating the supply demand for the Building Main and the principle branches and
risers of the system by totaling the fixture units on each using Table A-2.1 (UIPC –I,
2014) and then by reading the corresponding ordinate from Chart A-2.1 or A-2.1(1)
whichever is applicable.

(Source: UIPC – I, 2014, Page: 474)

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 (Source: UIPC – I, 2014, Page: 474)

3.1.2 Continuous Supply Demand

Estimate continuous supply demands in litres/sec for long sprinklers, air- conditioners
etc., and add the sum to the total demand for fixtures. The result is the estimated supply
demand of the building.

The quantity of water to be required to be supplied to every plumbing fixture shall be

represented by fixture units as given in Table 610.3 (UIPC- I, 2014) which includes
both hot and cold water demand. A water supply fixture unit is a numerical load factor
used to compare the relative water usage characteristics of one type of fixture to another
type of fixture. For example, when a concept of water supply fixture unit was originally
developed, a lavatory was assigned a water supply fixture unit rating of 1 and a water
closet flushometer valve was assigned a water supply fixture unit rating of 10.

A drainage fixture unit based on the relative discharge of one type of fixture as compared
to the discharge of another type of fixture. For example, a bathtub installed in a private
use – occupancy, if assigned 4 water supply fixture units.

3.2 DETERMINING THE SIZE OF PIPES

The size of each water meter and each portable water supply pipes from the water meter
or other source of supply to the fixture supply branches, risers, fixtures , connections,
outlets or other uses shall be based on the total demand and shall be determined
accordingly using methods prescribed in UIPC-I, 2014. Water piping systems shall be
designed to ensure that the maximum velocities allowed by the code and the applicable
standard are not exceeded.

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 Water Pipe Sizing has two primary objectives –

 Maintaining flow velocities at a level that is appropriate for the type of pipe being
installed.
 Matching pipe sizes to the residual pressure of the system.

Matching these two principles together will allow for the water supply distribution system that
will deliver the appropriate amount of water volume at the appropriate pressures to allow the
fixtures or appliances to perform their functions without causing damage to the system, fixture
or appliances.

Referring to Table 610.3 and the appliances, appurtenances present in our building, we come
to know the minimum fixture branch pipe size required for that particular fixture and choose a
pipe diameter accordingly as required. Also, referring to the corresponding WSFU for that
fixture for private buildings we multiply it with the minimum pipe size to get the water demand
required for that fixture. This actually gives us an idea about the range of discharge required
by the particular fixture.

Table 610.3: Water Supply Fixture Units (WSFU) and

Minimum Fixture Branch Pipe Sizes

(Source: UIPC – I, 2014, Page: 182)

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Referring to Table 610.3 (UIPC-I, 2014)

Table 3.1: Calculation for Water Demand

Minimum Provided Pipe Water

Water Supply Fixture Fixture Private Size for the Demand
Unit Branch Fixture / (WSFU)
Pipe Size Appurtenance

Shower – 4 units ( 1
shower in each 15 mm 2 15 mm (15x2) = 30
bathroom and 2 in each
floor)
Total: 2 floors (G+1)
Hence, Total Showers
required = (1x2)x2 = 4

Hose Bibb ( for 15 mm 2.5 + 1 (for 15 mm (15x2.5) +

Bathroom) -> For 4 each (15x1) +
bathrooms and 2 floors additional) (15x1) = 67.5

Basin (taking 2 for each 15 mm 2.5 15 mm (15x2.5) =

floor) 37.5

Water closet 6.0 LPF 15 mm 2.5 15 mm (15x3.75) =

Gravity Tank – 4 units 37.5
(1 for each bathroom)

Kitchen Sink – 2 units 15 mm 1.5 20 mm (20x1.5) = 30

(1 for every floor)

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Now, referring to Chart A-2.1 (UIPC-I, 2014)

Using Curve 2 of the chart, we convert WSFU values of appurtenances to litres/sec discharge
units.

TABLE 3.2: CONVERSION OF WSFU TO L/s

Fixture Unit WSFU litres/sec

Kitchen Sink 30 1.3

Water Closet 37.5 2.68

Basin 37.5 2.68

Shower 30 1.3

Hose Bibb 67.5 2.2

Total water demand = 30 + 37.5 + 37.5 + 30 + 67.5 = 202.5 WSFU

Thus, Total Water supply for our G+1 building = 202.5 WSFU

Using, Chart A-2.1, we convert the total water demand in terms of litres/sec discharge unit
which is equal to 3.78 L/s.

Required data:

1. Total distance of tank from water meter = 13.97 m

2. Elevation of highest outlet from meter = 7.1 m
3. Minimum pressure to be maintained at water meter = 5.1 bar = 510 kPa
4. Minimum pressure to be maintained for flushometer tank = 15 psi = 1.034 bar
= 106.52 kPa

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3.3 PERMISSIBLE FRICTION LOSS
Friction loss occurs as fluid flows through a pipe. Factors affecting friction loss due to fluid
flow are velocity and roughness of pipe walls. With respect to pipe roughness, the relevant
code published by Bureau of Indian Standard recommending estimates of pipe capacity due to
varying degrees of roughness and aging shall be referred to. Chart A-4.1 and A- 4.1(1) maybe
referred to for friction loss related to flow rate, velocity and pipe diameter for varying degree
of pipe roughness. Allowances shall also be made for decreasing pipe capacity due to various
levels of caking and corrosion that results on aging.
High Flow velocities should be avoided not only because of the exponential increase of
frictional resistance that will affect pressure, but also for the reasons that they create
undesirable noise in the piping system, reduced residual head pressure and cause excessive
shock in reaction to quick-closing valves, resulting in damage to the piping materials.
Velocities should not exceed 3.0 m/s or the maximum values given in the appropriate
Installation Standard in Appendix I (UIPC-I, 2014). Various plastic and copper pipes have a
specific prohibition against velocities in excess of 2.4 m/s.

(Source: UIPC – I, 2014, Page: 478)

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(Source: UIPC – I, 2014, Page: 479)

17
Pressure Calculation

Determining the total friction loss in kPa (bar) per 100 m of the pipe:

Minimum pressure for the flushometer tank = 15psi = 106.52 kPa = 1.034 bar
Minimum pressure at the meter = 5.1 bar = 510 kPa
Total static pressure loss= 7.1 m x 10 kPa/m = 71 kPa

Thus static pressure loss through the meter, filters, reducing valves, back flow, preventers
is equal to 71 kPa.

We choose an 80 mm disc meter.

From Chart A-1.2 (UIPC-I, 2014)

(Source: UIPC – I, 2014, Page: 471)

The pressure loss we get corresponding to a discharge of 3.78 L/s = 6.9 kPa
Minimum pressure at the meter = 510 kPa
Available pressure = 510 kPa – 6.9 kPa – 71 kPa – 106.52 kPa = 325.58 kPa

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Referring to Chart A-4.1 and Chart A-4.1(1) (UIPC-I, 2014)

TABLE 3.3: DETERMINING THE TYPE OF PIPE

Fixture Unit (each) Friction Head Loss Type of Pipe

Kitchen Sink 22.61 kPa/m Copper Tubing

Smooth Pipe.

Shower 18.097 kPa/m Copper Tubing

Smooth Pipe.

Basin 20.359 kPa/m Fairly Smooth Pipe.

Hose Bibb 22.621 kPa/m Fairly Smooth Pipe.

Water Closet 22.621 kPa/m Copper Tubing

Smooth Pipe.

Available static pressure after head loss:-

(32.58 – 18.097 – 20.359 – 22.261 – 22.261) = 242.502 kPa

= 2.462 bar

Hence, our water pressure lies within 2 – 3 bar.

3.4 PRESSURE LOSS

When a water filter, water softener, Backflow prevention device, or any other similar
devices installed in any water supply line, the pressure loss through such devices shall be
included in the pressure loss calculation of the system and the water supply pipe and
meter shall be adequately sized to provide for any such pressure loss. No water filter,
backflow prevention device regulated by the UIPC-I, 2014 shall be installed in any
potable water supply piping, when the installation of such device or its connection piping
shall not be less than the diameter of such water distribution piping to the fixtures served
by the device.

3.5 RESIDUAL PRESSURE

Residual pressure differs from static, flow and normal operating pressure. Static pressure
is pressure exerted on water when the water is not flowing. Factors affecting static

19
 pressure in a municipal water distribution system are atmospheric pressure, the height of
water towers and plumbing stations. Static pressure when applied to plumbing system
within a building is the pressure exerted on water supply when no water is flowing from
the fixtures. A static pressure reading within a building maybe conducted by placing a
pressure gauge on a Hose Bibb. With the Hose Bibb open, the gauge will read the static
pressure. Static pressure in a plumbing system will vary related to the height above or
below the water service.

In our design, we have determined the elevation difference of the group of fixtures above
the water mains in meters. The HEAD LOSS is calculated at 0.1 times the difference
in elevation between the street main and the highest outlet in meters. 1 meter water
column is equivalent to 0.1 kg/cm2. The calculated result will give the static pressure
loss (or gain) in kg/cm2.

The minimum daily service pressure is actually the residual pressure on the municipal
water main when taking into account the pressure losses during peak periods of customer
use. When applied to plumbing system within a building, the residual pressure is the
pressure available at the fixture when the system is flowing at its estimated peak demand.
Factors affecting residual pressure are pressure drops due to friction and head loss and
losses due to meters and other appurtenances.

Care should be taken when determining the minimum residual pressure that should be
maintained under estimated maximum demand. The assumption is that the highest group
of fixtures will contain a water closet which will require either a minimum of 1.0 bar for
flushometer valve or a minimum of 0.5 bar for a flush tank.

3.6 AVAILABLE PRESSURE

We need to subtract the sum of loss in Static pressure and the Residual pressure to be
maintained at highest fixture from the average minimum daily service pressure. The
result will be the pressure available for friction loss in the supply pipes. The friction loss
in the water meter for the estimated maximum demand should also be subtracted from
the service pressure to determine the pressure available in the supply pipes.

3.7 DEVELOPED LENGTH

The purpose for determining the developed length of the pipe from the Water Meter to
the most distant fixture is to derive the average permissible friction loss per 30.0 m of
pipe length.

From the AutoCAD building draft and the water supply system from the Water Meter
we determine the following:

 The developed length of the building main.

 The developed length from the water meter to the foot of each riser branching
from the building main.

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 The greatest developed length of the pipe from the water meter to the top of any
riser.
 Equivalent lengths of pipe for various fittings and valves using Table A-3.4
(UIPC-I, 2014). When a close estimate is required, the equivalent lengths of pipe
for all fittings in each developed length of the pipe is computed and added to the
sum of developed length.

Fig 3.1: AutoCAD Plan of Designed Building

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Chapter 4. DESIGNING OF DRAINAGE PIPELINES
The following are the appurtenances in our residential building for which drainage
pipelines are designed:

 Shower (4 units) – 1 in each bathroom.

 Kitchen sink (2 units) – 1 in each floor.
 Water Closet 6.0 LPF Flushometer Tank – (4 units) 1 in each bathroom.
 Receptor – 4 for 4 bathrooms + 2 for 2 Basins.

 We refer to Table 702.1 (UIPC-I, 2014) to determine the minimum trap and trap arm
size.
 We refer to Table 702.2(a) (UIPC-I, 2014) to determine the drainage fixture unit
values based on the corresponding size of trap and trap arm.
 We refer to Table 702.2(b) (UIPC-I, 2014) to determine the discharge capacity in
litres/sec for intermittent floors. This gives us an idea of the range of discharge that will
pass through appurtenance.

A fixture unit is a quantity representing the load producing effects on the plumbing system
of different kinds of plumbing fixtures. Fixture units represent the amount of flow
discharging from a fixture. They are not equivalent to an exact litres/min flow but instead
represent a flow range. This is because a fixture does not always empty the same way during
each discharge. The flow amount depends on whether or not the fixture is full and then
emptied or if the fixture is then unplugged and flowing freely as the water supply to it is
running. Therefore, the fixture unit represents the range of flow from full discharge to a
running discharge.

The continuously flowing drainage is rated differently. This type of flow, such as from a
Sump Pump represents a greater load on a system than an intermittent fixture flow would.
The DFU value from a continuous flowing pump shall be calculated based on the total
drainage fixture units of the sanitary fixtures draining into the Sump for the purpose of
determining loading effects on a gravity sewer system.

 The Receptor, Indirect Waste from Table 702.1 is most often a floor sink. The
size of the receptor installed and thus the trap size and fixture unit rating of the
receptor will be based on the litres/sec flow of the equipment, fixtures or devices
draining into them. This is accomplished by adding the litres/sec flow of the drains
flowing into the receptor and using Table 702.2(a) to find the proper trap size and
thus receptor size of the installation.
 According to Table 702.1 certain sinks and urinals are referred by footnotes, which
establishes that these fixtures so designated must be supplied with a 50 mm. In most
cases sinks and urinals are required to have a 40 mm trap and trap arm. They require
a 50 mm drain because of what may be draining into them such as a kitchen sink
with garbage macerator. Also, the need for a 50 mm drain for the urinal is because
of the possibility of frequent clogging.

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  The 40 mm size receptor is for low flow fixtures. The 50 mm receptor is for
moderate flow demands.
 From Table 702.1, the fixtures are designed with established trap size in order to
accommodate the flow from the fixture and to keep the trap free from sediment by
providing a scouring action when it rains. Oversizing the trap will diminish this
effect.
 For intermittent flow, drainage fixture units into the drainage system shall be
computed on the rated discharge capacity in litres/sec, in accordance with Table
702.2(b).
 For continuous flow, into a drainage system such as from a pump, sump ejector,
air-conditioning equipment or similar device, two fixture units shall be allowed for
each 0.06 m/sec of flow.

4.1 SIZE OF DRAINAGE PIPING

 Minimum Size: The minimum sizes of vertical and horizontal drainage piping
shall be determined from the total of fixture units connected thereto, and
additionally, in the case of vertical drainage pipes in accordance with their
length.
 Maximum Number of fixture units: Table 703.2 shows the maximum number
of fixture units allowed on any vertical or horizontal drainage pipes, building
drain of a given size; the maximum number of fixture units allowed on any
branch interval of a given size; and the maximum length (in meters) of any
vertical drainage pipe of a given size.

Drainage sizing is accomplished by these steps:

1. Assigned the proper fixture unit value, trap and trap arm sizes to each fixture.
2. Assigned the proper fixture unit value to each pipe segment of the drainage for
the total number of fixtures served by that segment.
3. Assigned the proper pipe size to each segment as determined by Table 703.2.

Referring to Table 703.2, we have provided the number of vertical pipes and horizontal pipes
based on the size of pipe for the corresponding appurtenance.

The length of the drainage pipes is also referred from the Table 703.2 after knowing the
maximum length for the horizontal and the vertical pipes based on the size of pipe provided for
a particular appurtenance.

The horizontal length of trap arms is determined from Table 1002.2, where we come to know
the maximum length that can be provided for a trap arm of particular diameter for a drainage
fixture and provide its length accordingly. This table however, is not applicable for water
closets. The developed lengths between the trap of a water closet or similar fixture and its vent
shall not exceed 1800 mm.

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Referring to Table 702.1 to determine trap size.

Referring to Table 702.2(a) to determine the number of Drainage Fixture Unit.

Referring to Table 702.2 (b) to estimate the discharge range of waste water for which pipelines
of the corresponding appurtenances should be designed.

TABLE 4.1: DETERMINING DRAINAGE DISCHARGE

Appurtenances Minimum Drainage Fixture Unit Discharge (Table

trap size Fixture Unit 702.2 (b))
0.47 – 0.95 L/s
Shower – 4 40 mm 2 2 for each shower
units
1.80 – 3.15 L/s
WC 6.0 LPF 80 mm 3 (3 x 2) =6 per floor
Flush tank

Minimum of
40mm dia
drainage pipe
Kitchen Sink 40 mm - - should be fixed
irrespective of
discharge.
For private
residential
Receptor 50 mm - - buildings,
minimum 50 mm
receptor.

24
  Size of Drainage Pipe Line
Referring to Table 703.2 we calculate the number of vehicle and horizontal pipes provided for
a particular fixture –

TABLE 4.2: DETERMINING THE NO. OF DRAINAGE PIPELINES

Fixture Size of Pipe Minimum Number Number of Units

of Units Provided

Shower 40 mm 2 vertical pipes and 2 vertical pipes and 1

1 horizontal pipes horizontal pipes

Kitchen Sink 40 mm 5 vertical pipes 1 vertical pipes and 1

and 1 horizontal pipes.
horizontal
pipes

1 vertical pipe for

parallel place water
closets in two floors, thus
4 WC actually require 2
vertical pipes. 2
Water Closet 80 mm 48 vertical pipes and horizontal pipes for 2
35 horizontal pipes water closets in a floor.
Thus, 4 horizontal pipes
for 4 water closets in 2
floors.

6 vertical pipes for 4

bathrooms and 2 basins
Receptor 50 mm 16 vertical pipes and taking both floors in
8 horizontal pipes. account.
6 horizontal pipes for 4
bathrooms and 2 basins
taking both floors in
account.

25
4.2 Length of Drainage Pipes
Referring to Table 703.2 (UIPC- I, 2014)

TABLE 4.3: DETERMINING THE LENGTH OF DRAINAGE PIPE

Fixture Size Maximum Length Provided

Length

 Horizontal : 0.6m
 Vertical : 3.1 + 0.02 + 0.3 = 3.32 m
Water  Vertical pipe : 3.1 m (floor to floor)
Closet – 4 80 mm 65 mm height from Ground level to (G+1)
units level + 0.12 m (slab thickness) + 0.6
m (chajja) + 0.2 m (elevation of pipe
above final floor level) = 3.84 m
 Horizontal : 0.6 m
Kitchen  Vertical : (3.1 + 0.12 + 0.6) = 3.82 m
Sink – 2 40 mm 20 mm
units

 Horizontal : 0.3 m
Receptor – 50 mm 20 mm  Vertical : (3.1 + 0.12 + 0.6) = 3.82 m
6 units

 Horizontal : 0.3 m
Shower – 4 40 mm 20 mm  Vertical : 3.82 m
units

26
 (Source: UIPC – I, 2014, Page: 268)
5. Horizontal Length of Trap Arm:
Referring to Table 1002.2 (UIPC-I, 2014)

TABLE 4.4: DETERMINE HORIZONTAL LENGTH OF PIPE

Fixture Unit Diameter of Trap Maximum Horizontal

Arm Horizontal Length of Pipe
Length of Provided
Pipe

Water Closer – 4 units 80 mm 1.8 m 1.2 m

Kitchen Sink – 2 units 40 mm 1.05 m 0.6 m

Receptor – 6 units 50 mm 1.5 m 0.6 m

Shower – 4 units 40 mm 1.05 m 0.5 m

27
(Source: UIPC – I, 2014, Page: 200)
28
(Source: UIPC – I, 2014, Page: 202)

29
(Source: UIPC – I, 2014, Page: 203)

30
Chapter 5. DESIGNING OF VENTS
5.1 SIZE OF VENTS
The size of vent piping shall be determined from its length and total number of fixture
units connected thereto, as set forth in Table 703.2. The diameter of an individual vent
shall not be less than 32mm nor less than half the diameter of the drain to which it
is connected. In addition, the drainage piping of each building and each connection to
a public sewer or a private sewage disposal system shall be vented by means of one
or more vent pipes; the aggregate cross sectional area of which shall not be less than
that of the largest building sewer as determined from Table 703.2. Vent pipes from
fixtures located upstream from pumps, ejectors, backwater valves or other devices that
in any way obstruct the free flow of air and other gases between the building sewer
and the outside atmosphere shall not be used for meeting the cross sectional area,
venting requirements of this section.

Referring to Table 703.2 (UIPC-I, 2014)

The size of vent piping shall be determined from its length and the total number of
fixture units connected there.

TABLE 5.1: DETERMINING THE NO. OF VENT PIPES

Flow Unit Diameter Maximum Number of Units

Units

2 for each water closet.

Water Closet – 4 units 80 mm 84 Thus,
Total required = 2x4 = 8
vents for 4 water closets.
2 for each sink. Thus, 2x2 =
Kitchen Sink – 2 units 40 mm 8 4 vents for 2 sink.

3 for each receptor. Thus,

Receptor – 6 units 50 mm 24 3x6 = 18 vents for 3
receptors.

Shower – 4 units 40 mm 8 -

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 5.2 LENGTH OF VENT PIPES
No more than 1/3rd of the total permitted length as per Table 703.2 of any minimum
sized vent shall be installed in a horizontal position.

Referring to Table 703.2 (UIPC-I, 2014)

TABLE 5.2: DETERMINING THE LENGTH OF VENT PIPES

Flow Unit Diameter Maximum Length provided

Length

2m for each vent

Water Closets – 4 80 mm 65 m associated with
units drain pipe.

3m for each vent

Kitchen Sink – 2 units 40 mm 18 m associated with the
sanitary pipe in
kitchen.

Receptor – 6 units 50 mm 37 m 2m for each

receptor.

5.3 VENT PIPE GRADIENT

Vent and Branched Vent pipes gradient shall be free from drops or sags, and each such
vent shall be level or shall be so graded upward from the drainage pipe it serves.

5.4 VENT PIPE RISE

Unless prohibited by structural conditions each vent shall rise vertically to a point not
less than 150 mm above the flood level rim of the fixture served before offsetting
horizontally.

Referring to Table 703.2, we come to know the maximum pipe size for each fixture and the
maximum number of vent pipes required for it. From this information we provide the number
of vents for every fixture required according to out building plan. Similarly, the length for each
vent is provided for a particular fixture after knowing the maximum length that can be provided
for it from Table 703.2.

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Chapter 6. DESIGN OF PIPELINES FOR STORM DRAINAGE
From our AutoCAD plan our roof area has come out to be 238.52 m2, we are keeping two
stormwater drains on opposite corners of our building roof and we keep a roof slope of 1:50
for our design. We are designing for a maximum rainfall intensity of 100 mm/hr.

Fig 6.1: TOP VIEW OF ROOF OF DESIGNED BUILDING IN AutoCAD

33
Referring to Table 1101.6 (UIPC-I, 2014), taking slope of roof and maximum rainfall intensity
into consideration, we come to know the size of pipe required for storm water drainage and the
corresponding discharge of stormwater through it by referring to the values corresponding to
the row of maximum roof area of 246 m2 and under the column of 100 mm/hr.

(Source: UIPC – I, 2014, Page: 289)

34
 Design of Pipeline for Storm Drainage:-

Referring to Table 1101.6 (UIPC-I, 2014)

Plan Details: Keeping 2 storm water drains on opposite corners of our residential
building plan.

Design for a slope of 1:50:

Roof Area = (13.12 x 10.2) + (8.2 x (13.2 – 2.2)) + (2.02 x 7.5) = 238.52 m2

 The roof area of our residential building has come out to be 238.52 m2. We are
providing one drainage pipe for storm water.
 The maximum projected roof area as determined from Table 1101.6 is 246 m2
considering our design roof slope as 1:50 and maximum rainfall intensity of 100
mm/hr occurring in the region.
 Referring to Table 1101.6, we get to know the corresponding size of horizontal
drainage pipe required for storm drainage and the storm water drainage flow
from our maximum area value. Thus, size of the horizontal pipe to be provided
for storm drainage = 100 mm.
 Maximum drainage of storm water through the storm drainage for the 238.52
m2 area and 1:50 sloped roof is = 6.9 L/s.
 Now referring to Table 1101.1, we can determine the sizing of the roof drain to
be provided.
 For our case, having a roof area of 238.52 m2 and for 100 mm/hr, maximum
intensity rainfall, we ensure the size of vertical drain pipe corresponding to the
table row of 427.3 m2 roof area under 100 mm/hr column of Table 1101.1
(UIPC-I, 2014).
 After referring to Table 1101.1, we determine the size of vertical drain pipe to
be provided is 100 mm.
 From Table 1104.3, we determine the size of semi-circular gutter to be provided
for our design storm drainage.
 Corresponding to 100 mm/hr maximum intensity rainfall, roof slope of 1:50
and diameter of storm drainage pipe as 100 mm, our desired size of gutter has
come out to be = 66.9 m.

We are referring to Table 1104.3, to find out the diameter of semi-circular gutter by referring
to the roof slope and the maximum rainfall. In our design as we considered a roof slope of 1:50
and maximum rainfall intensity of 100 mm/hr and the size of pipe 100 mm, we get the diameter
of gutter as 66.9 mm.

35
(Source: UIPC – I, 2014, Page: 295)

36
CONCLUSION:
Plumbing is an essential step in the process of construction of any building, (private, public
or assembly). In the present study, the plumbing system (G+1) residential building was
designed. Water supply to the building was through the municipal water connection
followed by a water meter from where the water carried to an overhead tank situated at the
roof of the residential building. Water is supplied to all the fixtures from the overhead tank
by gravity.

REFERENCES:
 2014 Uniform Illustrated Plumbing Code – India.
 www.slideshare.net/haroldtaylor1113/10-basic-plumbing-system. A lecture series of
basic plumbing system for architecture students. (Last accessed on 25th March 2016).
 www.level.org.nz/water/water-supply/system-layout-and-pipework/. For design
guidelines for design of water supply system. (Last accessed on 22nd March 2016).

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