Vacuum breaker function

A vacuum breaker is a type of valve or device that is designed to prevent the formation of a vacuum in a piping system. It is typically used in plumbing and HVAC systems to prevent backflow, which can occur when there is a sudden change in pressure in the system.

Here's how it works:

  1. When the pressure in the system drops, the vacuum breaker is designed to open, allowing air to enter the system and equalize the pressure.
  2. As the pressure in the system increases, the vacuum breaker closes, preventing air from entering the system and maintaining the pressure.

The vacuum breaker function is important for several reasons:

  1. Prevents backflow: By preventing the formation of a vacuum, the vacuum breaker prevents backflow, which can occur when there is a sudden change in pressure in the system. Backflow can cause contamination of the water supply and damage to the piping system.
  2. Prevents siphoning: The vacuum breaker also prevents siphoning, which can occur when a vacuum is created in the system and water is drawn back into the system.
  3. Maintains pressure: The vacuum breaker helps to maintain the pressure in the system, which is important for proper system operation and to prevent damage to the piping and fixtures.

Vacuum breakers are commonly used in:

  1. Plumbing systems: Vacuum breakers are used in plumbing systems to prevent backflow and siphoning in water supply lines.
  2. HVAC systems: Vacuum breakers are used in HVAC systems to prevent backflow and siphoning in heating and cooling systems.
  3. Industrial systems: Vacuum breakers are used in industrial systems to prevent backflow and siphoning in process piping systems.

There are different types of vacuum breakers available, including:

  1. Automatic vacuum breakers: These breakers are designed to open and close automatically in response to changes in pressure in the system.
  2. Manual vacuum breakers: These breakers require manual operation to open and close.
  3. Combination vacuum breakers: These breakers combine the functions of an automatic and manual vacuum breaker.

Overall, vacuum breakers play an important role in preventing backflow and siphoning in piping systems, and are an important component of many plumbing and HVAC systems.