How does an irrigation combined air valve prevent airlocks in irrigation pipes?

In an irrigation system, air can become trapped at high points or in sections where the flow is temporarily disrupted, especially after initial system startup, maintenance, or during variations in water demand. When this air accumulates in the system, it forms what is known as an airlock, which can restrict or completely block the flow of water. Airlocks are problematic because they create pressure imbalances, which can cause inefficiencies and performance issues in the irrigation system. The combined air valve is designed to automatically release this trapped air as the system operates. It is installed at the highest points of the irrigation system, where air naturally rises and accumulates. The valve detects the presence of air, and using its automatic float mechanism, it opens to allow air to escape from the pipeline. This continuous air release prevents air from accumulating to the point where it could obstruct water flow, ensuring that the irrigation system can operate at full efficiency. Without this valve, airlock formation could result in uneven irrigation or even system failure.

During the initial filling of the irrigation system or when the system is depressurized (such as during maintenance or shutdowns), it is essential for the irrigation pipes to be able to take in air. Without this, a vacuum could form inside the pipes, causing structural damage such as collapsing pipes or fittings. The combined air valve functions by allowing air to enter the system when it is first being pressurized, which prevents the formation of a vacuum. As the system fills with water, air needs to be displaced to avoid negative pressure conditions that could potentially crush the pipes or cause seal failure. The combined air valve facilitates this air intake by opening when the system is depressurized or in the process of filling, allowing the necessary air to flow into the pipes. This process helps balance pressure and avoid structural damage to the irrigation infrastructure.

One of the key features of an irrigation combined air valve is its automatic operation. It typically consists of a float mechanism housed inside a valve chamber. This float moves up and down in response to changes in water levels or air pressure inside the pipe. When trapped air accumulates in the pipeline, the float drops, triggering the valve to open and release the air. Once the valve has dispelled the trapped air, and the water level rises sufficiently, the float rises, automatically closing the valve to prevent further air release. This fully automated system ensures that airlocks are consistently prevented without the need for manual intervention. The valve continuously adjusts to the changing conditions of the irrigation system, ensuring that any pockets of air are promptly vented. The automation of the valve's operation makes it an ideal solution for maintaining system efficiency in large-scale and complex irrigation setups, where frequent monitoring and adjustments would be impractical.

Water hammer is a pressure surge that occurs when a column of moving water suddenly stops or changes direction, often due to the rapid closing of valves or the sudden release of air. This surge of pressure can cause significant damage to irrigation pipes, valves, and other system components, leading to costly repairs and downtime. One of the primary benefits of an irrigation combined air valve is its ability to mitigate water hammer by preventing excessive air buildup in the system. The air release functionality of the combined air valve helps manage pressure fluctuations by ensuring that air is regularly vented from the system. When air is allowed to escape gradually from high points in the system, pressure changes are more evenly distributed, reducing the likelihood of pressure surges.