Choosing the Right Air Valve for Water Networks: A Practical Guide
Not All Air Valves Are Equal
Air valves are essential for the safe, efficient operation of pressurized water systems—but selecting the wrong one can lead to blockages, surging, or even catastrophic failure. Whether you’re designing a new pipeline or upgrading aging infrastructure, choosing the right air valve is a critical engineering decision.
This guide breaks down how to make the right choice based on system needs, valve functionality, and performance standards.
Step 1: Understand the Air Problems You’re Solving
Before selecting a valve, identify what type of air-related challenges your system faces:
| Air Issue | Valve Type Needed |
|---|---|
| Trapped air during operation | Air Release Valve |
| Large air pockets during filling | Air/Vacuum Valve |
| Air entry during draining or pipeline rupture | Combination (Triple Function) Valve |
In most real-world scenarios, combination air valves (like BIMEX BX4000) are the most versatile, covering multiple use cases in one unit.
Step 2: Match the Valve to Your Application
Ask these critical questions when selecting a valve:
1. Where is the valve being installed?
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High points → Trapped air needs release
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Long rising mains → Vacuum protection required
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Pump discharge → Entrained air needs removal
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Reservoir or tank inlets/outlets → Surge risks
2. What is the pipe diameter and flow rate?
Valve orifice size and flow capacity must match the system hydraulics. Oversized valves can cause water hammer; undersized ones won’t evacuate air fast enough.
3. What is the working pressure?
Choose air valves rated for:
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PN10, PN16, or PN25
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Standard: BIMEX valves support up to 25 bar, tested to 1.5× working pressure
Step 3: Review Performance and Standards
Look for air valves that are:
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ISO Certified
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AWWA C512 Compliant (if applicable)
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Designed for low-pressure sealing (no leakage at <0.2 bar)
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Built with corrosion-resistant materials (e.g., stainless steel trim, FBE coating)
Example: BIMEX BX4000
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Stainless internals
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Resilient seat
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Welded steel body
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Certified to ISO 9001, 14001, 45001, 50001
Step 4: Consider Maintenance and Service Life
Can the valve be inspected and cleaned without system shutdown?
Are spare parts locally available?
Is the design compact and vandal-resistant for above-ground use?
BIMEX valves are engineered for long service intervals and simple maintenance, with anti-vacuum and dual-orifice models available for harsh environments.
Selection Is Specification
Choosing air valves is more than a checklist item. It’s an engineering decision that affects the performance, lifespan, and safety of your pipeline. Don’t rely on assumptions or legacy specs—use real hydraulic data, valve curves, and certified products.
Need Help Choosing Air Valves?
The BIMEX technical team is ready to support your project.
Request our valve sizing guide or schedule a consultation:
📩 sales@bimexindustry.com
🌐 www.bimexindustry.com
