Professional Documents
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Plumbing Notes
Plumbing Notes
PLUMBING
Plumbing the art and technique of installing pipes, fixtures, and other apparatuses in buildings for bringing
in the supply of liquids, substances and/or ingredients and removing them; and such water, liquid and
other carried-wastes hazardous to health, sanitation, life and property pipes and fixtures after installation
i.e., the ‘plumbing system’. (Section 217.6 The Revised National Plumbing Code of the Philippines 1999)
PLUMBING SYSTEM
Plumbing System includes all potable water supply and distribution pipes, all
plumbing fixtures and traps; all sanitary and storm drainage systems; vent pipes, roof
drains, leaders and downspouts; and all building drains and sewers, including their
respective joints and connections; devices, receptacles, and appurtenances within the
property; water lines in the premises; potable, tap, hot and chilled water piping; potable
water treating or using equipment; fuel gas piping; water heaters and vents for same.
(Section 217.12 NPC 1999)
1. The water supply and water distribution system. Carries water from the water
source, street main or a pump to the building and to various points in the building
at which water is used.
2. The plumbing fixtures. The receptacles that receive the supplied water and allow
the occupants of the building to use the water.
3. The drainage system. The piping network within the building which conveys from
the plumbing fixtures all wastes and fecal matter (sanitary drainage) as well as
rainwater (storm drainage) to a point of disposal or a treatment facility.
THE PLUMBER
The plumber is the one who works or engages in the business of installing in
buildings the pipes fixtures and other apparatus for bringing in the water supply and
removing liquid and waterborne wastes.
There are three categories of plumbers based upon their graces of experiences. They
are:
1. Apprentice plumber- a beginner at the trade who usually serves for 3 to 5 years
as helper to a journeyman.
2. Journeyman plumber- has served his apprenticeship and is competent to perform
the tasks of installing and repairing plumbing.
3. Master plumber- a person technically and legally qualified and licensed to
practice the profession of master plumbing without limitations in accordance with
Republic Act 1378, having passed the examinations conducted by the
Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), has received a certificate of
registration from the board of master plumbing and possesses the current license
to practice. (Section 214.5 NPC 200)
The improper installation of plumbing may affect the health of the occupants of a
building and create a center point for the spread of disease. The possibility is of
sufficient public interests to require the regulation of plumbing by law. The right of the
government to regulate the details of plumbing is based on the principle of the
protection of public health.
The basic goal of the National Plumbing Code of the Philippines is to ensure the
qualified observance of the latest provision of the plumbing and environmental laws.
1. All premises intended for human use or habitation shall be provided with a
supply of pure and wholesome water, neither connected to unsafe water supply nor
subject to backflow or back- siphonage.
2. Plumbing fixtures, devices and appurtenances shall be supplied with water
in sufficient volume and pressure adequate to function satisfactorily and without undue
noise.
3. Plumbing shall be designed and adjusted to use the minimum quantity of
water consistent with proper performance and cleaning.
4. Devices for heating and storing water shall be so designed and installed as to
prevent dangers from explosion through overheating.
5. Every building abutting on a street, alley or easement with a public sewer
shall connect its plumbing fixtures to the sewer system.
6. Each family dwelling unit shall have at least one water closet, one kitchen
type sink, a lavatory and a bathtub or shower to meet the basic requirements of
sanitation and personal hygiene.
7. Plumbing fixtures shall be made of smooth non-absorbent material, free from
concealed fouling surfaces and shall be located in ventilated enclosures.
8. The drainage system shall be designed, constructed and maintained to
safeguard against fouling, deposit of solids, clogging and with adequate cleanouts
so arranged that the pipes may be readily cleaned.
9. All piping shall be of durable NAMPAP-approved materials, free from
defective workmanship, designed and constructed by Registered Master Plumbers
to ensure satisfactory service.
10. Each fixture directly connected to the drainage system shall be equipped
with a water-sealed trap.
11. The drainage pipes piping system shall be designed to provide adequate
circulation of air free from siphonage, aspiration or forcing of trap seals under
ordinary use.
12. Vent terminals shall extend to the outer air and installed to prevent clogging
and the return of foul air to the building.
13. Plumbing systems shall be subjected to such tests to effectively disclose all
leaks and defects in the workmanship.
14. Substance which will clog the pipes, produce explosive mixtures, destroy
the pipes or their joints or interfere unduly with the sewage-disposal process shall
not be allowed to enter the building drainage system.
15. Proper protection shall be provided to prevent contamination of food, water,
sterile goods and similar materials by backflow of sewage. When necessary, the fixture,
device or appliance shall be connected indirectly with the building drainage system.
16. No water closet shall be located in a room or compartment which is not properly
lighted and ventilated.
17. If there is no sewer system in the area, suitable provision shall be made for the
disposal of building sewage by some accepted method of sewage treatment and
disposal, such as a septic tank.
18. Where a plumbing drainage system may be subject to backflow of sewage,
suitable provision shall be made to prevent its overflow in the building.
19. Plumbing systems shall be maintained in serviceable condition by Registered
Master Plumbers.
20. All plumbing fixtures shall be installed properly spaced, to be accessible for
their intended use.
21. Plumbing shall be installed with due regard to the preservation of the strength
of structural members and the prevention of damage to walls and other surfaces
through fixture usage.
22. Sewage or other waste from plumbing systems, which may be deleterious to
surface or sub-surface waters shall not be discharged into the ground or into any
waterway, unless first rendered innocuous through subjection to some acceptable form
of treatment.
• In 1902, the Plumbing Trade was duly recognized by the government in the City
of Manila. Master Plumber John F. Haas became the first Chief of the Division of
Plumbing Construction and Inspection. A Plumbing Code based on the Plumbing
Code of the United States was incorporated into the Building Code for the City of Manila.
• In 1935, the National Master Plumbers Association of the Philippines
(NAMPAP) was formally organized
• Manila City Ordinance 2411, the “Plumbing Code of the City of Manila” was
enacted and placed under the Department of Public Services, Manila.
• In 1954, the Third Congress approved House Bill No. 962 which in June 18,
1955, became R.A. 1378 “Plumbing Law of the Philippines” upon ratification of
President Ramon Magsaysay.
• On January 28, 1959, the National Plumbing Code of the Philippines
prepared by NAMPAP was promulgated and approved by Malacañang.
• Before Martial Law in 1972, Republic Act No. 6541 otherwise known as the
“Building Code of the Philippines” was passed with the “National Plumbing Code of
1959” as referral code in full text.
• The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) adopted the Revised
Plumbing Code of 1999 which President Joseph Estrada approved December 21, 1999
pursuant to Section 4 of R.A. 1378 known as the Plumbing Law.
TYPICAL PLUMBING SYSTEM OF A
TOILET AND BATH
CHAPTER 2: PROPERTIES OF WATER
GENERAL
DEMAND REQUIREMENT
Drinking, Cooking, Dishwashing Must be pure, sterilized and protected from
contamination. Supplies taken direct from
mains or from exclusive storage.
Personal Washing and Domestic Cleaning Similar but moderated to allow cold and
hot supplies to be drawn from main
storage tank or cistern via distribution
network.
Laundry Generally clean and wholesome, soft and
free form Iron and Manganese staining.
Fire Fighting High Pressure. Connections must not
permit contamination of mains water.
Swimming Clean, filtered and sterilized with free
chlorine residue for post-sterilization. Can
be recirculated.
Boilers and Heating Plants Soft treated water, stored and circulated
separate from domestic supplies.
Irrigation No special requirement, except reasonably
free from solids and slit (result in blocked
Pipes and nozzles) and uudecomposed
material (pollution).
Fresh water from precipitation falling on the ground gradually make its way
through streams, rivers and lakes to oceans or seas as a result. As precipitation hits the
ground, it may follow either of two alternative pathways, which are
(Relative Humidity)
RH= (4/12) x 100= 33%
RH= (10/12) x 100= 83.33%
9. Purified Water- water that undergoes a process where the pollutants are
removed or rendered harmless.
10. Polluted Water- water that contains one or more impurities that make the
water unsuitable for a desired use.
11. Gray Water- water drained from lavatories, sink, laundry trays and showers;
contains minor pollutants.
12. Black Water- water drained from water closets and urinals; carries body
wastes and contains major pollutants.
13. Storm Water- rainwater drained from roof gutters and downspouts.
WATER PURIFICATION
Water purification is any method that will remove one or more materials that
make the water unsuitable for a given use. The methods that are commonly used in
water purification are:
1. Settling or Sedimentation
2. Filtration
3. Adsorption/ Flocculation-Coagulation
4. Aeration
5. Distillation
6. Disinfection/ Chlorination
The natural water includes all of these purification methods except disinfection.
Sitting in lakes, ponds, or the oceans, water is subject to settling (sedimentation). As
it percolates through soil or porous rocks, it is filtered (filtration). Soil and humus are
also good chemical adsorbents (coagulation/ flocculation). As water flows down
streams and rivers, detritus is removed by biological oxidation (aeration). As water
evaporates and condenses, it is distilled (distillation).
Thus, numerous freshwater sources might be safe to drink were it no for human
pollution. The most serious threat to human health is contamination with disease-
causing organisms and parasites, which come from the excrements of humans and
their domestic animals. In human settlements, one can see how the organisms may
get into water and be passed onto people before any of the natural purification
processes can work.
THE METROPOLITAN CEBU WATER DISTRICT (MCWD)
The Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) is the sole commercial provider in
Metro Cebu comprising of four cities and four municipalities. As of year 2000,
MCWD served 40% of the total population of Metro Cebu.
MCWD is primarily tasked to deliver adequate, safe, potable and affordable water to
is conssionares.
1. Ground Water
2. Surface Water
Ground water sources are naturally and presumably purified by a compact thick
filter media layer of ungraded sands, soils and rocks at considerable depth. Hence,
disinfection using Chlorine Gas and other Chlorine Salts is the only treatment process
employed. Here, water that is extracted from their ground through a pumping equipment
is allowed to pass through chlorination facility using chlorine gas to kill any presence of
coliform organisms and other froms of bacteria. Water is the stored in a reservoir ready
for distribution into each concessionaire’s faucet.
At certain areas in the distribution network, Direct feed pumping stations are
employed to augment the water supply. These are strategically located in different
areas Metro Cebu.
Buhisan Dam is Cebu’s first and only dam MCWD’s only surface water source. It
supplies the Tisa (Labangon) filter plant with up to 600 cubic meter per hour (600,000
liters per hour or 158,400 gallons per hour) or about an average of 4,000 cubic meter
daily (4 million liters or 1.05 million gallons).
This dam is located in Buhisan, a southern mountain baranggay of Cebu City. This was
designed by 27 year-old Eusebius Julius Halsema. AG and P, the winning bider, asked
Php 463, 628.00 to do the work. On November 10, 1911, the dam was completed and
ready to be filled.
With a height of 27 meters, the concrete dam has a conical arch design which
transfers the stress in the reservoir (caused by water strain) to the sides of the dam
thereby anchoring it firmly in place.
Three 4.5 meter wide flood gates exist for flood control purposes. Its long
concrete spillway allows overflow water to escape safely when the dam gates are
raised.
Two kilometers of raw water main pipes extend from the dam to the distribution
reservoir in Tisa. From the latter, a four kilometer pipeline distributes water to
concessionaires in Cebu City. Another 21 kilometers of pipelines were also laid for
improved water distribution.
Today the almost 100 year old Buhisan Dam is as strong as when it first
operated.
TREATMENT PROCESS
MCWD treats the surface water using the conventional process comprising of the
following:
1. Aeration
2. Coagulation- Flocculation
3. Sedimentation
4. Filtration
5. Disinfection/ Chlorination
1. Aeration- Water is sprayed into the air to release any trapped gases and absorb
additional oxygen for better taste.
2. Coagulation- Flocculation- This is the process by which small sediment particles
which do not settle well combine together to form larger particles which can be
removed by sedimentation. This process includes physical and chemical
process:
After the processes, water is stored in a reservoir, then to the transmission mains, then
to the, distribution lines, down to the service connections and lastly to the
concessionaire’s faucet.
SURFACE WATER SUPPLY AND TREATMENT SYSTEM
Water is taken from the water shed reservoir and piped to the treatment plant. At
the plant, (1) water is aerated to release trapped gases and to absorb oxygen for better
taste, (2) Alum/tawas (aluminum sulfate) is added to coagulate organic particles, and (3)
the water is put into a settling basin for several hours to allow coagulated particles to
settle. It is then (4) filtered through sand filters, (5) Chlorine is added to kill bacteria and
put into a storage tank for distribution to concessionaires.
CHAPTER 3: PLUMBING FIXTURES
FIXTURES- receptacles attached to a plumbing system other than a trap in which water
or waste may be collected or retained for ultimate discharge into the plumbing system.
1. ONE-PIECE WATER CLOSET- The water closet fixture is manufactured with the
bowl and the flush tank molded into a single unit. Usually used in tandem with the
bidet.
2. CLOSED COUPLED WATER CLOSET- a water closet where in the flush tank is
separate but is attached to the toilet bowl. It is a two-piece model.
3. PAIL FLUSH WATER CLOSET- a water closet comprising only of a bowl without
a flush tank. Flushing action is obtained only through water poured from a pail or
bucket. This is used in areas where running water systems are not available.
4. SQUAT BOWL WATER- A water closet that is otherwise known as “Eastern
type” since the user assumes a squatting position rather than a sitting position.
1. Flush tank
2. Flush Valve (flushometer)
1. FLUSH TANK- holds a supply of water for flushing a fixture such as the water
closet. It has a capacity of 5 to 6 gallons.
2. FLUSH VALVE- valve designed to supply a fixed quantity of water for flushing
purposes. It is activated by direct water pressure without the use of a flush tank.
It is also known as Flushometer or Flushometer valve. The flush valve requires
10 to 20 psi flow pressure.
1. Round Front
2. Elongated Front
QUALITY OF FIXTURES
i. Dense
ii. Durable
iii. Non-absorbent
iv. Smooth, Impervious Surface
v. Free form unnecessary concealed fouling surfaces
VENTILATION OF T &B
LAVATORY- a fixture designed for the washing of the hands or face. It is also known as
wash basin.
• TYPES OF LAVATORY
2. Pedestal Lavatory
b. Under counter
a. Center Set
b. Wide Spread
• ROUGHING-IN OF LAVATORY
• MINIMUM LAVATORY CLEARANCE
a. Vitreous China
b. Enameled Cast Iron
c. Stainless Steel
d. Plastic
BIDET- a plumbing fixture used for washing the middle part of the body, especially the
genitals. It is also known as the Sitz Bath.
- Setting and clearance for bidet shall be the same as in the water closet.
- Bidet minimum trap diameter is 38mm and its DFU value is 2.
- Size of water supply is 12mm and WSFU is 2 (private) or 4 (public)
BATH TUB- a tube for bathing, usually a fixed plumbing installation designed for one
person. It is available in left outlet and right outlet.
URINAL- A sanitary fixture equipped with a water supply and drain for flushing away
urine.
TYPES OF URINAL
1. Wall hung Urinal
2. Pedestal Urinal
3. Stall Urinal
4. Trough Urinal
SINKS
DRINKING FOUNTAIN
SHOWER BATH
FLOOR DRAINS
HOSE BIBB
• Size of water supply is 12mm Φ and the WSFU value is 3 (private use) or 5
(public use)
KITCHEN SINK- a plumbing fixtures usually consisting of a basin with a water supply,
connected with a drain.
e. Corner Sink
• SLOP SINK- A deep sink, usually set low and used by janitors for emptying pails
of dirty water and mop cleaning.
• DRINKING FOUNTAIN- A fixture consisting of a shallow basin, together with a
water jet designed to provide potable water for human consumption.
• LAUNDRY TUB- A deep wide sink or but used for washing clothes. It is also
known as Laundry Tray or Set Tub.
• SHOWER BATH- An apparatus for spraying water on the body, usually from
above. Drain is through the shower bath floor drain.
• SCRUB SINK- a plumbing fixture usually located in the operating room in a
hospital to enable personnel to scrub their hands prior to a surgical procedure;
the hot and cold water supply is activated by a knee-action mixing valve or by
wrist or pedal control.
PLUMBING UNIT (Sec. 217.13 NPC 1999)
The minimum standard quantities of plumbing fixtures that discharge waste into a
plumbing installation include;
1 water meter
1 water closet
1 lavatory
1 shower head and drain for a bathtub or shower stall
1 kitchen sink
1 laundry tray
3 floor drains
4 faucets/ hose Bibb
13 Total numbers of fixtures and fittings that comprise a plumbing
unit
2. The dam or threshold shall not be less than 51mm nor more than 228mm in
depth, when measured from the top of the dam or threshold to the top of the
drain.
PLUMBING ACCESSORIES
1. Soap holder
2. Paper holder
3. Toothbrush and tumbler holder
5. Seat Cover
The drainage system is composed of the piping network within a structure which
conveys sewage, rainwater, or other wastes from their point of origin to a point of
disposal, such as a public sewer or a private treatment facility (septic tank). This system
is often known as the DWV System (Drainage, Waste and Vent). The complete
drainage system is subdivided into four (4) sub-systems, as follows.
1. SOIL DRAINAGE SYSTEM- The piping that conveys the discharge of water
closets or fixtures having similar functions (containing fecal matter), with or
without the discharges from other fixtures.
3. STORM DRAINAGE SYSTEM- The piping system that receives clear water
drainage from leaders, downspouts, surface run-off, ground water, subsurface
water, condensate water, cooling water or other similar discharges and conveys
them to the point of disposal. All sanitary wastes must be excluded.
4. VENT SYSTEM- the piping system that receives a flow or air to or from a
drainage system or to provide a circulation of air within such system to protect
trap seals from siphonage or back pressure.
a. The piping must be air tight, gas tight and water tight.
b. Each plumbing fixture, except those with integral traps, shall be separately
trapped by an approved type water seal trap. This is to prevent odor-laden and
germ-laden to rise out of the drainage system and contaminate the surrounding
air in the room.
c. Each plumbing fixture trap shall be provided with vent pipes. This is to protect the
drainage system against siphonage and back pressure and to assure air
circulation throughout the drainage system.
e. All horizontal piping shall be run in practical alignment and at a uniform grade of
not less than 2% or 2 cm per meter toward the point of disposal.
f. All horizontal piping shall be supported and anchored at intervals not to exceed 3
meters.
g. Vertical piping shall be secured at sufficiently close intervals to keep the pipe in
alignment. Stacks shall be properly supported at their bases.
DEFINITION FROM NPC 1999 EDITION
HOUSE / BUILDING DRAIN- part of the lowest horizontal piping of a plumbing system,
which receives the discharges from the soil, waste and other drainage pipes inside of a
building and conveys it to the house sewer outside of the building.
HOUSE / BUILDING SEWER - extends from the house drain at a point 0.60 meters
from the outside face of the foundation wall of a building to the junction with the street
sewer or to any point of discharge, and conveying the drainage of one building site. No
house/building sewer shall be smaller than 150mm in diameter, nor less in size than the
house/building drain
WASTE PIPE - conveys only wastewater or liquid waste free of fecal matter.
SOIL PIPE- any pipe which conveys the discharge of water closet, urinal or fixtures
having similar functions, with or without the discharges from other fixtures to the building
drain or building sewer.
SOIL STACK PIPE- a vertical soil pipe conveying fecal matter and waste water.
VENT PIPE - used for ensuring the circulation of air in a plumbing system and for
relieving the negative pressure exerted on trap seals.
VENT STACK- the vertical vent pipe installed primarily for providing circulation of air to
and from any part of the soil, waste of the drainage system.
PRIVATE SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM- a septic tank with the effluent discharging
into a subsurface disposal field, seepage pits or of such other facilities or may be
permitted by the plumbing code.
DOWN SPOUT- A vertical pipe which conveys rain water, also known as conductor or
rain water.
STORM DRAIN- Receives storm water , clear, rain or surface-water waste (SD)
CATCH BASIN- A receptacle in which liquids are retained for a sufficient period of time
to allow materials to settle to deposit.
TRAP- A fitting or device designed and constructed to provide, when properly vented, a
liquid seal which prevents the backflow of foul air or methane gas without materially
affecting the flow of sewage or waste water through it.
MATERIALS USED FOR THE PLUMBING DRAINAGE SYSTEM APPROVED BY
THE 1999 NATIONAL PLUMBING CODE.
1. Cast iron
2. Ductile iron
3. Galvanized steel (shall not be used underground. Kept at least 152mm above
ground)
4. Galvanized wrought iron (shall not be used underground. Kept at least 152mm
above ground)
5. Lead
6. Copper
7. Brass
8. Series 1000, pvc, dmv
9. Extra strength vitrified clay pipe (shall not be used above ground. At least
300mm below finish ground level.)
10. Approved material having smooth and uniform bore
NOTE: ABS and PVC DWV can be used in high rise buildings at the discretion of the
RMP and with the full consent of the owner.
DRAINAGE FITTING
1. Cast Iron
2. Malleable
3. Lead
4. Brass
5. Copper
6. ABS
7. PVC
8. Vitrified clay
VENT PIPES
1. Cast iron
2. Ductile cast iron
3. Galvanized steel
4. Galvanized wrought iron
5. Lead
6. Copper
7. Brass
8. Schedule 40, ABS, DWV
9. Series 1000, PVC, DWV
VENT STACKS
1. Copper
2. Cast iron
3. Galvanized wrought iron
4. PVC
VENT FITTINGS
1. Cast Iron
2. Galvanized malleable iron
3. Galvanized steel
4. Lead
5. Copper
6. Brass
7. ABS
8. PVC
1. Cast iron
2. Galvanized steel
3. Iron
4. Brass
5. Copper
6. Lead
7. Sched 40, ABS, DMV
8. Series 1000, PVC, DWV
1. 26 GA, Galvanized sheet metal with steel pipe or cast iron at its lowest section
draining to the catch basin.
ROOF DRAIN
1. Cast iron
2. Copper
3. Other corrosion resistant materials
TRAPS (SEC. 1003 NPC 1999)
1. ABS
2. Cast brass
3. Cast iron
4. Lead
5. PVC
Figure 2- The function of the trap and one of the several functions of a vent preventing
siphonage.
LOSS OF TRAP SEAL- This failure can be attributed directly to inadequate ventilation
of the trap and the subsequent minus and plus pressures which occur in the piping
system. See figure 3.
1. Siphonage- The withdrawal of a liquid from a trap due to a suction caused by liquid flow
in a pipe.
a. Direct Self- siphonage
3. Evaporation- Occurs when a fixture is not used for a long time. A Deep seal is the best
solution but clogs the pipe due to accumulated solid wastes.
4. Capillary Attraction- foreign objects in the traps absorbing trap seal
5. Wind Effects- strong winds through the vent system forcing water out of the trap
SUPPORTS- are devices for holding and securing pipes and fixtures to walls, ceiling,
floors or structural members. Supports include hangers, anchors, brackets, and cradles.
1. Evaporative cooler
2. Air Washer
3. Air Conditioner
4. Cold Storage Room
5. Refrigerator
6. Cooling Counter
7. Food and Drinks Storage
8. Culinary/ Dishwashing Sink for food preparation Room
Cooling and air conditioning equipments may be separated by an *airbreak.
Food equipments shall be separated from the drainage system by a full *airgap.
*Airbreak- a physical separation, which may be a low inlet into the indirect waste
receptor from the fixture, appliance or device indirectly connected, at least 25mm.
*Airgap, drainage.- the unobstructed vertical distance through the free atmosphere
between the lowest opening from any pipe, plumbing fixture, appliance or appurtenance
conveying waste to the flood level rim of the receptor.
DRAINAGE, WASTE AND VENT (DWV) PIPING SYSTEM
The drainage system is composed of groups of pipes and fittings that convey waste
from the building to the proper means of disposal system.
1. Building Sewer- That part of the horizontal piping of a drainage system which
system which extends from the end of the building and which receives the
discharge of the building drain and conveys it to the public sewer, private sewer,
individual sewage disposal system or other point of disposal.
2. Building drain- the part of the lowest horizontal piping of a plumbing system
which receives the discharge from soil, waste and other drainage pipes inside of
a building and conveys it to the house sewer.
3. Sewage Disposal System. A system for the treatment and disposal of domestic
sewage by means of a septic tank, cesspool, or mechanical treatment, all
designed to serve a single establishment, development or building.
The drainage piping system contains fittings that serve as drains, traps and vents.
Drains- fittings used for draining fluid from point of use to the piping system.
Traps- fittings or device designed and constructed to provide a liquid seal which prevent
the back passage of air without materially affecting the flow of sewage or water through
it.
Vents-pipes and fittings installed in the system to provide air circulation so as to protect
trap seals from siphonage and back pressure.
TYPES OF TRAP COMMONLY USED IN RESIDENTIAL FIXTURES
NOTE:
Grease trap is not required for individual dwelling units or for any private living
quarters. (sec. 1011.1, NPC 1999)
: No food waste disposal unit shall be connected to or discharged into any grease
trap. (Sec 1013, NPC 1999)
C= M x W x R x F NOTE:
1 Cubic meter= 264 gallons
WHERE:
F= Storage Factors
• Fully equipped commercial kitchen
8 hour operation: 1
18 hour operation: 2
24 hour operation: 3
• Single service kitchen: 1.5
SAMPLE PROBLEM;
Determine the capacity and volume of the grease trap for a canteen that serves
an average of 50 meals a day that is open from 11:00 am to 7:00pm.
SOLUTION: S= M x W x R x F = 50 x 5 x 2.5 x 1
S= ? = 625 gallons
M= 50 meals
W=5 cal/ meal/ day
R= 2.5 hours
F= 1
C = 0.09 (K x N x H x G x S)
Where:
C= Liquid capacity
K= Facility access coefficient
= 1.25 for freeways
= 1.00 for recreation areas
= 0.80 for main highways
= 0.5 for lesser roads
N= number of seats (use fractional value if occupancy is rarely full)
H= Number of hours per day of operation
G= Waste flow rate (general value is 4.5 Gals)
S= Sewage capacity factor
= 1.7 for outflow to public sewer
= 2.5 for outflow to opposite disposal
• For grease traps that serve scheduled meals to a specific number of occupants
as in hospitals , nursing homes and schools;
C= 0.14 (M x G x S)
Where;
TYPES OF VENTS
Circuit vent or loop vent. The portion of the drainage system which ventilates two or
more fixture traps that discharge into a soil or waste branch.
15 19.35
20 16.12
30 11.83 field area:
Disposal
A= (1.50 + 25 + 1.50) 1.80
45 8.60
A= 50.4 m2 < 70 m2 (rule of thumb)
60 * Revise
5.34 distance of trenches
D= 70/ 28 = 2.5 m
Relief Vent. The portion of the vent pipe installation that permits additional circulation of air
around the drainage pipes to eliminate back pressure and retardation of waste flow.
CHAPTER 5: SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANT
To protect water resources and the greater environment, all waste from buildings
and industrial processes must be treated to meet certain standards of quality. Domestic
sewage from dwellings and DWV systems in buildings are permitted to be discharged
into the public sewers system, which provides the necessary treatment prior to tits
discharge into nature.
Raw or untreated sewage is mostly pure water since it comprises about 99.9% water
and only about 0.1% impurities. However, sewage contains biodegradable organic
material, which is very likely to contain pathogenic micro organisms.
• For water to be safe for drinking the E. coli count shall not be more than 1 E. coli
per 100ml (about 0.4 cup) of water.
• For water to be considered safe for swimming the E. coli shall be more than 200
E. coli per 100ml of water.
Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD). The measure of the strength of the sewage in
relation to the total amount of organic material it contains. Untreated domestic sanitary
sewage has an average BOD of about 200mg/ liter. DENR standard is 50 mg/ liter.
Total Suspended Solids (TSS). The measure of the strength of the sewage in relation
to the total amount of suspended solids. Untreated domestic sanitary sewage has an
average TSS of 240 mg/ liter.
Following are the definitions of some commonly used terms related to the subject of
sewage treatment methods and disposal processes:
Drainage Fittings. This are pipe accessories in the drainage system such as a
coupling, bend, wye, etc; used to join two or more pipes together or to change their
directions.
1. Waste pipe
2. Soil pipe
3. Storm pipe
4. Vent pipe
1. Waste pipe. The pipe which carries only liquid waste, free of human excrement
or fecal matter.
2. Soil pipe- the pipe which carries the waste from water closets, urinals or fixtures
of similar function to the building drain. This contains human excrements.
3. Storm pipe- the pipe which convey rainwater from the roof gutter and down
spout to the building storm drain.
4. Vent pipe- the pipe connected to the drainage system that conveys air to and
from the system and keep the water from being siphoned from the trap.
The selection of piping materials for the drainage system depends on the following:
This type of pipe is made of asbestos fibers combined under pressure with Portland
cement and silica to form a dense and homogeneous material. It is dense cured for
strength.
1. Pressure A.C. Pipe- is used for sewer mains, industrial effluent and process
piping, working pressure ranges at 100, 150, and 200 psi.
2. Non-pressure A.C. Pipe- is used for sewer casings for electric cables and as
storm drains.
Properties:
Diameter: 75mm (3’) to 900 mm (13’)
Length: 3.00m (10’) or 4.00m (13’)
For 75, 100, 150mm.
4.00m (13’) for 200mm. (8”0
Through 900 mm. (36”)
Grades: 1500, 2400, 3000, 4000 and 5000
Lbs/ft.
Joints: rubber gasket joint and cement joint
Note:
Asbestos cement pipe (ACP) is remarkably suited for embedment in concrete
structure since both materials have the same properties.
1. Bends (elbows)- are used to complete change of direction in soil, waste and
drain lines in horizontal, vertical and diagonal directions.
2. Y (wye) branches- are used for change of direction (diagonal) and branch
connections of soil, waste and drain pipes.
3. T (tee) branches- are used to join 3 or 4 pipes at perpendicular directions.
Cast iron soil pipe (CISP) is made from an alloy of iron, carbon and silicon, with the
controlled amounts of manganese, sulfur and phosphorous. This is primarily used for
sanitary drain, waste and storm systems.
1. Single hub- is equipped with one hub and one spigot end and used in the
installation of plumbing in its full length.
2. Double hub- is constructed with a hub on each end so it may be cut into two
pieces when a short piece of pipe is needed.
3. Hubless (no hub)- there is no hub on either ends of the pipe, it is used in lieu of
the single hub calking of the pipe is difficult.
PROPERTIES
*Oakum- a hemp treated with pitch to make it moisture proof and resistant to the
elements contained in the waste.
*Calking- plugging an opening with oakum and lead that are pounded into place.
*HUB- that portion of the pipe which, for a short distance, is sufficiently enlarged to
receive the end of another pipe of the same diameter for the purpose of making a joint.
It is also known as Bell.
*SPIGOT- the end of the pipe that fits into a bell or spigot.
FITTINGS FOR CAST IRON SOIL PIPE
CONCRETE PIPE
Concrete pipe is cast in metal molds and compacted by tamping or spinning the molds
(centrifugal casting).
1. Non-reinforced concrete pipe- is used for drainage, sewer lines and for gravity-
flow water supply lines if the joints are carefully made. Diameters available range
from 100mm. (4”) to 900mm (36”).
2. Reinforced concrete pipe (RCP)- is made by the addition of steel wire or steel
bars and is primarily used for sewage and storm drainage. Diameters available
range from 300mm (12”) to 3600mm (144”)
Vitrified clay pipe is extruded from a suitable grade of shale or clay and fired in kilns
producing an extremely hard and dense corrosion resistant material. It is generally used
for underground public sewers, house sewers, drainage (sanitary and storm) systems
and for industrial wastes such as acids.
Vitrified clay pipe is suitable for most gravity-flow systems and is not intended for
pressure service. It is brittle and cracks when laid on unstable ground or base.
PROPERTIES
*Diameter- 100mm (4”) to 1050 mm (42”)
*Grades- standard
- extra strength
- perforated
*Joints - cement joint
- pre-fabricated compression seals
VITRIFIED CLAY PIPE FITTINGS
PLASTIC PIPES
1. Thermosel Plastic- has the property of being permanently rigid. Epoxy and fiber
glass are example of this.
2. Thermo Plastic- is a material having the property of softening when heated and
hardening when cooled.
1. Polyethylene (PE)- the high density P.E. spiral pipe (HDPE) is used as drainage
and sewer pipe for housing complex, playground, golf course, industrial farm and
stock farm.
It is sufficiently flexible to follow ground contours of snake
around obstacles.
HDPE SPIRAL PIPE
Properties
*Diameter- 100mm (4’) to 900mm (36”)
*Color- black
*Joint- Screw-type couplings
*Brand- Atlanta
THE COMMON TOOLS USED IN THE DRAINAGE PIPES AND FIITINGS ARE:
1. Hacksaw
2. Closet auger
3. Plunger
4. Rule
5. Blow torch
6. Lead pot
7. Pouring ladle Rule/ Push-pull tape. This is
8. Joint runner used to measure pipes to be Blow Torch- this is used as a
9. Ball peen hammer cut and for measuring the run of source of heat when melting
10. Cold chisel the pipes. lead and heating the soldering
11. Caulking irons copper for calk joint.
12. Soldering copper
13. Tin snip
14. Plumb bob
15. Plumb level
16. File
Generally speaking, potable water is supplied from a local utility through a public water
system.
For buildings without public water system, an alternative source of water must be
considered, such as springs, wells and rain water.
SPRING WATER SOURCE
In most conditions, springs are shallow wells with water supply just a few meters from
the ground surface. If this is the source of domestic water supply, careful attention must
be given to yield and purify. The flow may stop during dry season or surface water may
get contaminated.
The determination of the yield of the spring water source employs a very simple
procedure. They are as follows:
1. Channel the flow of the spring into a collection basin. Make sure that the basin
collects all available flow.
2. Place an overflow pipe through the dam so that the collected water flows freely
through the pipe. There should be no leakage around the pipe.
3. Put a bucket of known volume (for example, a 10-liter bucket) under the overflow
pipe to catch the flow.
4. With a watch, measure the amount of time it takes to fill the bucket. At this
instance, the rate of flow can be determined.
5. Check the rate of flow per day if it is sufficient to supply the daily water demand
of the occupants.
It takes a spring 60 seconds to fill a 10-liter bucket. Determine if its daily yield is
sufficient to the water demand of the community of 200 people. The average daily water
consumption per person is 60 liters.
Solution:
Therefore, the spring with the daily flow of 13,824 liters can sufficiently meet the
demand of the community of 200 people.
WELLS
Wells are holes or shafts sunk into the earth to obtain water from an aquifer. An aquifer
is a water-bearing formation of gravel, permeable rock or sand that is capable of
providing water, in usable quantities, to springs or wells.
The types of wells generally refer to the method of its construction, which are:
1. Dub
2. Bored
3. Driven
4. Drilled
a. Percussion or standard
b. Rotary
c. Reverse-circulation rotary
d. Jetting
1. Dug wells- These are wells 60 centimeters or more in diameter dug through
the soft upper soil. The sides may be of masonry or concrete to prevent from caving-in.
It is necessary that the well should be impervious to a depth of at least 3 meters.
2. Bored wells – these are constructed using either hand or power driven earth
auger. A well casing is lowered to the bottom of the hole. After the boring is complete,
cement grout is poured to fill the gap between the bored hole and the well casing. This
is to prevent contamination.
4. Drilled Wells- A drilling rig is used to drill the well hole and then a casing or
tubular pipe is forced down the hole to prevent it from caving-in. when a water-bearing
stratum of sufficient capacity is found, a well screen is set in place to permit the water to
flow into the casing and to hold back the fine material. The depth of this well is limited
only by the distance one must dig to obtain an adequate supply of fresh water, even
down to 450 meters.
In spite of these conditions, rainwater collection system remains a viable water source
alternative. This system typically employ a cistern or covered reservoir tanks to store
water collected from roofs or other relatively clean, impervious surfaces. The collected
rain can be used for flushing water closets and urinals, as well as for landscape
purposes wherein potable water is not necessary.
The city council of Cebu promulgated City Ordinance No. 1711 otherwise known as the
“water conservation and Flood Prevention ordinance”. This ordinance requires all
projects to provide a permanent rainwater tank or container proportionate to the roof
area. These are stated as follows:
One cubic meter of tank/ container for every fifteen (15) square meters of roof
area and deck, up to a maximum of seven (7) cubic meters.
One cubic meter of tank/ container for every fifteen (15) square meters of roof
area and deck, up to a maximum of three (3) cubic meters.
There are two methods that can be used in determining the size of the storage tank for
rain water:
1. The use of Cebu city Ordinance 1711 which states that for every fifteen (15)
square meter of roof area, one (1) cubic meter of rain water can be collected.
This is the short method of sizing the cistern.
2. The use of the rain fall data of the locality. This is the long method of determining
the size of the cistern.
Solution
2. Determining the rain fall data from PAGASA ( average precipitation rate in
millimeters)
January 109.00m July 196.70
February 71.10 August 152.70
March 54.60 September 186.70
April 58.60 October 201.40
May 120.90 November 162.30
June 177.00 December 137.70
Therefore:
The domestic cold water supply of the plumbing system consists of the piping and
fittings which supply cold water from the building water supply to the fixtures, such as
lavatories, bath, tubs, water closets and kitchen sinks. This is also known as water
distribution system.
1. Galvanized Iron (G.I.) Pipes and fittings, schedule 40- is moderately corrosion
resistant and suitable for mildly acid water. It is connected to its fitting with
threaded connections. It is available in diameters form 12 mm (1/2”) to 300 mm
(12”) at a length of 6 meters (20 feet).
2. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) Pipes and fittings, schedule 40- is economy and ease of
instruction make it popular, especially on low budget projects.
3. Polybutilyne (PB) pipe
4. Polyethylene (PE) pipe
5. Copper Pipes and Tubing
a. Type K- used primarily for underground water service. It is color-coded in
green.
b. Type L- is most popular for use in water supply system. It is color-coded in
blue.
c. Type M- it has the thinnest wall and is used where water pressure is not
too great. It is color-coded in red.
Fittings
A variety of fittings must be used to install the piping in the project. Fittings are
accessories usually standardized, used for joining two or more pipes together.
Fittings include:
1. Nipple- a short of piece of pipe, threaded on the outside (male threads) at both
ends, used to join couplings or other fittings
a. Short nipple- below 75mm in length. Also known as shoulder nipple.
b. Long nipple- over 75mm in length.
c. Close nipple- where threading meet.
2. Couple- a short internally threaded (female thread) at both ends and used to
connect two pipes in straight line.
3. Elbow- a pipe fitting having a bend and makes an angle (90o or 45o) between
adjacent pipes for a change in direction. It is also known as ell or straight elbow.
a. Reducing elbow- Joins two pipes of different diameters at right angle of each
other. When specifying reducer fittings, the bigger diameter is stated first,
(followed by the smaller diameter. (example: reducing elbow, 25mm x 20mm)
b. Street elbow- an elbow fitting having a 45o or 90o bend with an inside thread
on one end and outside thread on the other. It is also known as service ell or
street ell.
4. Tee- a T-shaped pipe fitting that joins 3 or 4 pipes at perpendicular directions.
a. Straight tee c. reducing tee
b. Straight cross tee d. reducing cross tee
2. WATER METER
4. RISERS
5. FIXTURES BRANCHES
7. STORAGE TANKS
SERVICE TAP CONNECTION DETAIL
CORPORATION COCK- a valve screwed into the street water main to supply the house
service connection.
GOOSE NECK- the part of a pipe curve like the neck of a goose, usually flexible.
CURB STOP- A control valve for the water supply of a building, usually placed in case of
emergency or should the water supply of the building be discontinued.
WATER METER- a mechanical device used to measure the volume of water passing
through a pipe.
METER STOP- A valve placed at the street side of the water meter and serves as a
controlling device for the building installation.
GENERAL TYPES OF WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM
6. Bushing- a pipe fitting which is threaded on both the inside and the outside and
used to reduce the size of the pipe opening to receive a pipe or fitting of a
different size.
10. Flange- a ring shaped plate screwed on the end of a pipe and provided with
holes for bolts, to allow joining the pipe to a similarly equipped adjoining pipe.
The resulting joint is a flanged joint.
VALVES
Valves are used to control the flow of water throughout the supply system. The proper
location of valves simplifies repairs to the system, fixtures, or equipment being served.
There are usually valves at:
a. Risers
b. Branches
c. And pipes to individual fixture or equipment
• Types of valves
1. Gate valve
2. Globe valve
3. Check Valve
4. Angle valve
5. Ball valve/ stop cock
6. Faucet/ Bibb
1. Threaded joints- used in Galvanized Iron (G.I.) pipes and fittings. The thread
extensions of the G.I. pipe are as follows:
PIPE SIZE THREAD EXTENSION NO. OF THREAD PER
25MM (1”)
6mm (1/4”) 9mm (3/8”) 18
9mm (3/8”) 9mm (3/8”) 18
12mm (1/2”) 12mm (1/2”) 14
19mm (3/4”) 14mm (9/16”) 14
25mm (1”) 17mm (11/16”) 11 ½
32 mm (1 ¼”) 17mm (11/16”) 11½
37mm (1 ½”) 17mm (11/16”) 11½
50mm (2”) 19mm (3/4”) 11½
2. Solder joints- for rigid and flexible copper tubing.
3. Flared joints- for flexible copper tubing.
4. Solvent weld or cement joint for plastic pipe.
UNION- a three piece pipe fitting used to connect the ends of FLANGE- a ring sharped plate screwed
two pipes, neither of which can be turned. on the end of a pipe and provided with
It is also used on pipes that are to be taken down holes for bolts; to allow joining the pipe
Occasionally. to a similarly equipped adjoining pipe.
Tanks storage capacity required for domestic water supply should be based upon the
peak demand load on the water supply system and should be adequate to satisfy that
demand for at least 30 minutes.
The water supply fixture unit (WSFU) is a factor so chosen that the load
producing effects of different kinds of fixtures and their conditions of service can be
expressed as multiples of that factor. As an aid in this regard, tabulated values to given
loads in water supply fixture units are shown in Tables 3 and 4.
Note: In estimating demand for water closet, use the value for flush value type.
6 5
8 6.5
10 8 10 27
12 9.2 12 28.6
14 10.4 14 30.2
16 11.6 16 31.8
18 12.8 18 33.4
20 14 20 35
25 17 25 38
30 20 30 41
35 22.5 35 43.8
40 24.8 40 46.5
45 27 45 49
50 29 50 51.5
60 32 60 55
70 35 70 58.8
80 38 80 62
90 41 90 64.8
100 43.5 100 67.5
120 48 120 72.5
Determine the capacity of the storage tank of a school building with the following
fixtures:
45 water closets 4 showers
40 lavatories 18 slop sinks
14 urinals 16 drinking fountains
9 kitchen sinks
Solution
2. Estimate the demand in gallons per minute (refer to Table 4) from Table 4. The
estimated demand for 724 WSFU is 175 GPM.
3. Estimate capacity of the storage tank.
Assume 1 hour as the duration that will adequately satisfy demand.
= 10,500 gallons
V= 10,500 G
264
This method provides for the design population with the assigned average daily
water consumption for various buildings and other facilities.
Where
Where
Determine the capacity of the storage tank of a school building with an estimated
student population of 1,500 people. Assume 25% of the population as daily users of the
building.
Solution
V= 9,551.25
264
V= 36.18 cu.m.
Say: 37 cu.m.
DISINFECTION METHODS
• Procedure
1. All water supply connections should be disconnected, plugged or
effectively shut off to prevent any foreign matter or contamination from
entering the water supply thereto.
2. For disinfection, on of the following methods may be applied:
a. The systems, or part thereof, shall be filled with a water solution
containing 50 parts per million (PPM) of available chlorine and
allowed to stand for 24 hours before flushing and returning to
service.
b. The system, or part thereof, shall be filled with a water solution
containing 200 parts per million (PPM) of available chlorine and
allowed to stand for 3 hours before flushing and returning to
service.
1. PIPE VISE
2. PIPE CUTTER
3. PIPE REAMER
4. PIPE STOCK AND DIES
5. PIPE TAP
6. PIPE WRENCH
7. MONKEY WRENCH
8. STRAP WRENCH
9. PIPE TONG/ CHAIN WRENCH
PIPE VISE- This is used to hold 10. BASIN WRENCH
11. OPEN- END WRENCH
pipe to be cut, threaded or 12. ADJUSTABLE WRENCH
assembled. 13. FLARING TOOL
PIPE CUTTER- this is used PIPE TAP- This is used for PIPE WRENCH-this is used to
for cutting G.I. or Copper making internal threads in screw pipes into or out of their
tubing. G.I. Pipes. fittings.
1. Reciprocating Pumps
a. Lift pumps
b. Piston or plunger pumps
c. Deep-well piston pumps
2. Centrifugal Pumps
a. Submersible pump
3. Deep-weel jet pumps
4. Hydraulic Rams
5. Hydropneumatic pressure system
1. RECIPROCATING PUMP- a pump which operates with a to- and –fro motion.
a. Lift Pump- the simplest of the reciprocating pumps and consists of a piston
moving up and down in a cylinder or barrel. A lift pump cannot be used to
raise water above 7.50 to 8.50 meter at a normal atmospheric pressure
(101 kPa) due to:
- Loss of efficiency in the pump
- Friction in the intake pipe
- Impossible to obtain a perfect vacuum
b. Piston or Plunger Pump- is a positive displacement reciprocating pump in
which a plunger is driven backwards and forwards, or up and down by a
mechanical working head.
ILLUSTRATION
c. Deep-well piston pump- when water is more than 7.5m below the ground,
it is visually necessary to place the pump in or near the water in the well
and pump from there. Water is forced up th drop pipe and out into the
delivery pipe.
ILLUSTRATION
Centrifugal Pump- a pump with vanes or impellers that rotate inside a close-fitting case
draw-in liquid at the center and, by virtue of centrifugal force, throw-liquid out through an
opening in the periphery of the case. Unlike the reciprocating pump, a centrifugal pump
will not operate unless the casing is full of water.
ILLUSTRATION
HYDRAULIC RAM OR RAM PUMP. A pump in which the power generated from flowing
in an enclosed pipe is used to raise part of the water to a height above that from which
the flow began.
1. The fall (h) must be more than 0.66m, but should not exceed 6m.
2. The drive pipe should be straight and laid to an even grade, and its length should
be 6 to 8 times the available fall. The drive pipe must be long enough to ensure
that when the recoil of water takes place more resistance is offeered by te
moving water in the drive pipe than by the delivery valve and the water
immediately above it.
3. The amount of water available should be at least 10 times the required supply
and there must be a get away for the waste water.
4. The height (H) to which the water is to be delivered should not, in general, be
more than 6 to 8 times the available fall.
5. As a rule, the diameter of the drive pipe should be at least twice the diameter of
the delivery pipe.
• Calculation
In calculating for the quantity of water delivered by a hydraulic ram, use the
formula:
q= Q x h x e
H
Where:
To supply a ram, 200 liters of water per hour are available. The head of the ram is
1.00m and the height to which is raised is 5.00mm if the ram is assumed to have an
efficiency of 60%, what quantity of water will be delivered per hour?
SOLUTION:
q= Q x h x e
H
= 200 x 1 x 0.6
5
ILLUSTRATION
WELL PUMP SELECTION
Pressure- is defined as force per unit area, the area being measured at right angles to
directon of the force. The unit of pressure N/m2 is called Pascal (Pa). Kilo Pascal (kPa)
and Mega Pascal (MPa) are commonly used.
Head- is the height or vertical distance from the point of measurement to the free level
of water in the system.
a. Positive Head- occurs when the free water level is higher than the point of
measurement.
b. Negative Head- occurs where the free water level is lower than the point
of measurement. It is also known as suction, partial vacuum or negative
pressure.
*Water with head of 1.00m and a base of 1m2 will exert a pressure of 9810 N/m2, or
9810 Pa, that is 9.81 kPa.
• Classification of Heads
There are different kinds of head according to their effect on pumping operations.
1. Static Discharge Head or Gravity Head- results from the vertical height of a
column of water. It is the weight of water exerted as a result of the force of
gravity. In pumping operatons, it is the vertical distance (in meters) from the
center line of the pump to the point of free discharge.
2. Pressure head- the vertical height to to which a given pressure will force water to
a certain level
3. Suction Lift- the term used when the source of supply is below the center line of
the pump.
4. Static Suction Lift- the vertical distance (in meters) from the liquid level to the
center line of the pump.
5. Total Suction Lift- the static suction lift plus friction head in the entire suction pipe
and fittings.
6. Suction head- the term used when the source of supply is above the center lne of
the pump. Also known as flooded suction.
7. Static Suction Head- the vertical distance (in meters) from the center line of the
pump to the level of the liquid being pumped.
8. Total Suction Head- the static suction head minus the friction head in the entire
suction pipe and fittings.
9. Total discharge Head- the static delivery head plus the friction head plus the
friction head in all of the delivery pipe and fittings.
10. Velocity Head- the head required to accelerate the water in the delivery pipe. It
should be included in the total pump head but it so nominal that it is usually
ignored.
11. Total Pump Head- the total suction lift plus the total delivery plus the velocity
head.
The above stated types of fuel can be used to heat the water in the following systems:
1. Localized water heating (single appliances)
a. High Pressure
b. Low Pressure
2. Centralized hot water system
a. High Pressure
b. Low Pressure
3. Storage water heaters
a. High Pressure
b. Low Pressure
4. Instantaneous water heaters
a. High Pressure
b. Low Pressure
INSTANTANEOUS HEATERS
Instantaneous heaters instantly heat cold water as it passes through the heater. These
heaters are compact since storage is not required. They are popularly used at showers
and lavatories and due to this condition; there is a shower model and lavatory model.
1. When the cold water control valve is turned on, water flows and exerts pressure
on a pressure switch which in turn completes the electrical circuit so that the
element can now heat the water as it passes through. The pressure switch is the
safeguard that the heating element is only on when water is flowing.
2. A preset thermal cut-out switch is also incorporated as a safety measure against
overheating the water.
3. The heating element is thermostatically controlled using a rod thermostat or invar
steel which expands very little. This is fixed inside a tube of brass which expands
very little. This is fixed inside a tube of brass which expands approximately 18
times as much as the invar steel. When the brass tube, which is in contact with
the water, expands, it draws out the invar rod with it and breaks the electrical
contact.
4. A magnet ensures a clean snap action, as the magnet will hold the control switch
until the last minute, so preventing excessive arcing and rapid deterioration of the
contact points.
CENTRALIZED HOT WATER SUPPLY
In centralized systems, water is heated and stored centrally and distributed to the
hot water faucets via the hot water piping. In the average home, an electric
heating element is directly immersed into the water to be heated. But, for
commercial and larger projects an independent boiler or furnace is used to heat
the water remotely. The hot water is stored in a range boiler or storage tank that
is located as near the boiler as possible to keep heat losses at a minimum.
To provide an adequate supply of hot water for the average family, a 180 liter
storage cylinder is recommended and is designed to provide the central bulk of
the hot water requirements. The aforementioned value should be increased if
there is an abnormally high usage of hot water or be supplemented with
secondary forms of heating water.
1. The hot water storage vessel holds sufficient water to meet a large draw-off at
peak times.
2. It may be possible to use cheaper, lower grade fuel oil, coal, natural gas or other
solid fuel.
3. The boiler can be housed in its own room, keeping noise and dust out of the
main building.
4. One boiler plant reduces maintenance.
Both the 180 liter with a 2000 watt element and the 135 liter with a 1500 watt
element will reach a temperature of 60 degrees centigrade in 5 hours and 15 minutes,
based on cold water entering the cylinder at 10 degrees centigrade.
• Range boiler/ hot water storage tank- the hot water tank serves the domestic
hot water system in a storage capacity. There are two types of tanks used for the
storage of hot water:
1. Range boiler- the small cylindrical hot water tank that varies in size from
300 mm to 600 mm in diameter and is not more than 1800 mm long. The
range boiler is made of galvanized steel sheet of standard and extra
heavy gauge. It can be used in either horizontal or vertical position.
2. Storage tank- the large cylindrical hot water tank with a range of diameter
at 600mm to 1350 mm and not more than 4500 mm long.
The proper size of the hot water storage tank depends on the following:
1. The design of the building
2. The number of occupants and
3. The heating capacity of the supply device
• Hot water pipes- should be as short as possible in order to avoid the use of
“dead legs”. A “dead leg” is a long pipe run whereby it takes a long time to push
out the cold water for the sake of a small amount of hot water. The smallest size
of piping that will provide a satisfactory flow should be used. Short, small sized
pipes are less expensive and they waste less heat and less water.
a. Vertical position
b. Horizontal position
c. Pipes, valves and fittings
In this system the water that is being heated by the boiler is actually used out of the hot
water faucets.
Each type should have a temperature and pressure relief valve and sediment drain at
the lowest part of the tank. Relief valves are set to allow water to blow into a drain line
when the temperature exceeds 100 degrees centigrade or when the pressure exceeds
860 kPa.
• Range Boiler and furnace coil- the range boiler is usually mounted upright on a
stand. A drain is placed at the bottom to remove sediment; a temperature and
pressure relief valve is placed at the top for safety. The furnace coil is located in
the furnace box.
• Range boiler and Heater- the range boiler is usually installed horizontally on a
stand. The heater maybe fired by coal, gas or oil.
• Oil-Fired water heaters- are similar to the gas water heater, except that a
vaporizing or pressure oil burner supplies the heat.
• Electric Water Heater- normally has two immersion type heating elements. The
upper heater usually has higher wattage than the lower. Thermostats control
these elements to ensure that the operation is automatic. The heater does not
need a flue or smoke stack since there are no burning products. The electric
water heater may be located in a closet.
There are 3 types of indirect heating system currently used in buildings, these are:
1. Primatic Cylinder
2. Calorifiers
3. Annular Cylinder
NOTE: Where water is being used for heating , the “rule of thumb” to determine the
heating surface is approximately 1000 cubic centimeter of heating surface per 10 liters
of water in the storage tank. For 180 liters of stored water, this works out to
approximately 21 meters of a 15 mm diameter pipe or 16 meters of a 20mm diameter
pipe.
a. Cold water supply- delivered into the tank via a boiler tube that extends to
within 150mm of the tank bottom. The purpose for this is to avoid the possibility
of cooling the hot water which accumulates at the top of the tank. This cold water
line must have a small hole within 150mm from the top of the tank. This hole
serves as a vacuum breaker and prevents siphonage. The supply line into the
tank must be equipped with a control valve located as close to the hot water tank
as possible.
b. Flow connection- is connected to an opening on the tank somewhere above its
center point. This line is called the flow connection because the heated water
flows from the heater in the tank.
c. Return connection- is connected to a tapping on the bottom of the tank. This
line is called the return connection because it returns the colder water from the
bottom of the tank of the heater.
d. Drain valve- is located at the lowest point of the storage tank.
e. Hot water distribution pipe- is connected to a tapping on the top of the tank at
the point near the flow inlet.
f. Blow-off valve- is installed to the storage tank to control the temperature and
pressure and to prevent serious difficulties should the tank become overheated.