Vacuum breaker valve

A vacuum breaker valve is a type of valve used in plumbing systems to prevent the backflow of water or other liquids into the potable water supply. It is designed to break the vacuum that can occur in a piping system when the water supply is shut off or when there is a sudden change in pressure.

Here's how it works:

  1. When the water supply is shut off or there is a sudden change in pressure, the vacuum breaker valve is triggered to open.
  2. The valve opens to allow air to enter the piping system, breaking the vacuum and preventing the backflow of water or other liquids.
  3. Once the vacuum is broken, the valve closes, preventing further backflow.

Vacuum breaker valves are commonly used in:

  1. Plumbing systems: To prevent backflow of contaminated water into the potable water supply.
  2. Irrigation systems: To prevent backflow of fertilizers, pesticides, and other chemicals into the potable water supply.
  3. Fire protection systems: To prevent backflow of firefighting water into the potable water supply.
  4. Industrial processes: To prevent backflow of chemicals, waste, and other substances into the potable water supply.

Types of vacuum breaker valves:

  1. Atmospheric vacuum breaker (AVB): This type of valve is designed to break the vacuum by allowing air to enter the piping system.
  2. Pressure vacuum breaker (PVB): This type of valve is designed to break the vacuum by allowing air to enter the piping system, but also provides additional protection against backflow.
  3. Double-check valve assembly (DCVA): This type of valve is designed to provide additional protection against backflow by using two check valves in series.

Benefits of vacuum breaker valves:

  1. Prevents backflow of contaminated water into the potable water supply.
  2. Prevents damage to plumbing systems and equipment.
  3. Reduces the risk of waterborne diseases.
  4. Complies with plumbing codes and regulations.

In summary, vacuum breaker valves are an essential component of plumbing systems, as they prevent the backflow of water or other liquids into the potable water supply, protecting public health and preventing damage to plumbing systems and equipment.