The Role of Air Valves in Preventing Pipeline Damage in Water Networks

The Role of Air Valves in Preventing Pipeline Damage in Water Networks

In pressurized water systems, air is both unavoidable and dangerous if left unmanaged. Entrapped air in water pipelines can cause major performance losses, structural damage, and safety hazards. This is where air valves—especially those engineered to international standards—play a vital role in protecting water transmission and distribution networks.

Why Air Management Matters

During normal pipeline operation, air can enter or accumulate in several ways:

• During filling and draining operations

• By suction at pump inlets or vacuum conditions

• Due to chemical reactions and gas release inside the water

• From poor sealing or improper system design

If not vented correctly, this air causes:

• Pressure surges (water hammer) during transient flow

• Vacuum collapse during rapid drainage or pump stoppage

• Reduced pump efficiency and erratic flow behavior

• Corrosion at high points due to oxygen exposure

These issues increase maintenance costs, reduce service life, and compromise system safety.

Types of Air Valves and Their Functions

BIMEX offers a full range of high-performance air valves, designed to meet the unique demands of industrial, municipal, and fire protection applications. Each type serves a different function:

1. Kinetic Air Valve (Large Orifice)

• Used during pipe filling and draining

• Vents large volumes of air at high speed

• Prevents vacuum formation

• Ideal for water transmission mains and long pipelines

2. Automatic Air Valve (Small Orifice)

• Continuously releases small amounts of air during pressurized operation

• Prevents air pockets from forming in high points

• Supports stable, energy-efficient flow

3. Combination (Double Orifice) Air Valve

• Merges kinetic and automatic functions

• Works during filling, draining, and pressurized flow

• Recommended for critical systems like fire networks and pump stations

BIMEX Air Valve Design Advantages

Every BIMEX air valve is manufactured to international quality standards, ensuring long service life, reliable performance, and minimal maintenance.

✅ Body Material: Ductile iron (coated with fusion-bonded epoxy)
✅ Working Pressure: Up to 16 bar (PN16), higher on request
✅ End Connections: Flanged (EN 1092-2)
✅ Float System: Corrosion-resistant stainless steel
✅ Sealing: High-grade elastomer for leak-free operation

Where to Install Air Valves

To ensure complete air protection, BIMEX recommends installing air valves at:

• High points of pipelines (to release accumulated air)

• Pump discharge lines (to manage surge/vacuum)

• Long transmission lines (at regular intervals)

• Inlet/outlet of tanks and treatment systems

• Fire systems to prevent air-induced flow delays

 Air Valves = Reliable, Safe, Efficient Systems

Ignoring the need for air valves can compromise even the best-designed pipeline. Trapped air is a silent threat—causing energy loss, equipment damage, and unexpected system failures.

By integrating BIMEX air valves into your system, you can ensure:

• Longer pipeline life

• Safer operation

• Reduced maintenance

• Lower energy bills

🔧 Need help sizing or selecting the right air valve?
Contact BIMEX for expert technical assistance, product data sheets, or to request a quotation.