VACUVENT VA Series User manual

AIR RELEASE AND VACUUM BREAK
VALVES
SERIES VA
OWNER’S MANUAL

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents .............................................................................................................................2
Introduction.......................................................................................................................................3
General Specification........................................................................................................................4
General Specification........................................................................................................................5
General Specification........................................................................................................................6
Quality Control................................................................................................................................10
General Description........................................................................................................................10
Functional Testing and Overall Inspection...................................................................................11
Corrosion Protection....................................................................................................................11
Shipping......................................................................................................................................11
Installation, Removal and Storage Instructions ...............................................................................12
Positioning ..................................................................................................................................12
Installation...................................................................................................................................13
Removal......................................................................................................................................13
Storage .......................................................................................................................................14
Operation and Sizing ......................................................................................................................14
General sizing.............................................................................................................................14
General Operation.......................................................................................................................15
Contact Details ...............................................................................................................................18

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INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on your purchase of the Vacuvent Air Release and Vacuum Break Valve. This air
valve is the product of years of development and attention to detail. Innovation and commitment to
progress has yielded a new generation of air valve fit to carry the demands of modern pipelines.
Vacuvent series VA air valves combine several features of different types of air valves into one
compact unit. These reliable, sturdy and proudly made valves will ensure the safety of your pipeline
for many problem free years.
This manual is intended to give guidelines for the installation, maintenance and general care
required by the air valve to produce optimum results for the end user. Your Vacuvent air valve
should function flawlessly for many years as it is virtually maintenance free.
This manual starts of by describing the valve specifications and the materials used in the air valve.
Quality control assures that the valve is in good working condition from the corrosion protection to
the pneumatic functions and the valve integrity. This section describes the measures taken to
deliver a high quality valve.
A general description of the valve function and purpose is included in this manual.
General information regarding the details of quality testing and shipping is provided for the end user
to feel reassured.
This document is not intended to be used a design guide for the Vacuvent air release valve.

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GENERAL SPECIFICATION
SCREWED – DN25 (1”), DN50 (2”)
Figure 1- Overall Dimensions
DN
Model
No.
PN
H
D
Weight
Inch
Psi
Inch
Inch
Lbs
1
025VA25
363
13.2
3.8
9.5
1
025VA40
580
15.7
3.8
12.3
2
050VA25
363
15.2
4.8
13.2
2
050VA40
580
18.7
4.8
16.5
Type:
Double Orifice (Small and large orifice) with Anti-Shock Orifice Mechanism
End Connection:
Screwed BSP or NPT male
Nominal Size
DN25 (1”) and DN50 (2”)
Model No’s
See Table
Operating Pressure
PN25 0.5 bar (7.2 psi) – 25 bar (363 psi)
PN40 0.5 bar (7.2 psi) – 40 bar (580 psi)
Operating Temperature
4oC (40oF) to 85oC (185oF)
Acceptable Media:
Potable or strained raw water
Function:
1. High Volume Air Discharge for pipeline filling
2. Pressurized Air Discharge for air in filled pipeline
3. High volume Air Intake for pipeline draining
4. Anti-shock- surge dampening

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GENERAL SPECIFICATION
STUDDED –DN80 (3”), DN100 (4”)
Figure 2- Overall Dimensions
DN
Model
No.
PN
H
D
Weight
Inch
Psi
Inch
Inch
Lbs
3
080VA25
363
14.2
5.9
28.6
3
080VA40
580
16.9
5.9
34.1
4
100VA25
363
13.7
6.9
34.1
4
100VA40
580
15.7
6.9
41.4
Type:
Double Orifice (Small and large orifice) with Anti-Shock Orifice Mechanism
End Connection:
Flanged for alignment to
BS 4504 PN10, PN16, PN25 or PN40
SANS 1123 T1000/3, T1600/3, T2500/3 or T4000/3
ANSI B16.1 Class150 or ANSI B16.5 Class 300
Nominal Size
DN150 and DN200
Model No’s
See Table
Operating Pressure
PN25 0.5 bar (7.2 psi) – 25 bar (363 psi)
PN40 0.5 bar (7.2 psi) – 40 bar (580 psi)
Operating Temperature
4oC (40oF) to 85oC (185oF)
Acceptable Media:
Potable or strained raw water
Function:
1. High Volume Air Discharge for pipeline filling
2. Pressurized Air Discharge for air in filled pipeline
3. High volume Air Intake for pipeline draining
4. Anti-shock- surge dampening

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GENERAL SPECIFICATION
FLANGED –DN150 (6”), DN200 (8”)
Figure 3- Overall Dimensions
DN
Model
No.
PN
H
D
Weight
Inch
Psi
Inch
Inch
Lbs
150
150VA25
363
23.6
10.9
101.2
150
150VA40
580
25.1
10.9
121
200
200VA25
363
26.8
12.9
154
200
200VA40
580
29
12.9
185
Type:
Double Orifice (Small and large orifice) with Anti-Shock Orifice Mechanism
End Connection:
Flanged for alignment to
BS 4504 PN10, PN16, PN25 or PN40
SANS 1123 T1000/3, T1600/3, T2500/3 or T4000/3
ANSI B16.1 Class150 or ANSI B16.5 Class 300
Nominal Size
DN150 and DN200
Model No’s
See Table
Operating Pressure
PN25 0.5 bar (7.2 psi) – 25 bar (363 psi)
PN40 0.5 bar (7.2 psi) – 40 bar (580 psi)
Operating Temperature
4oC (40oF) to 85oC (185oF)
Acceptable Media:
Potable or strained raw water
Function:
1. High Volume Air Discharge for pipeline filling
2. Pressurized Air Discharge for air in filled pipeline
3. High volume Air Intake for pipeline draining
4. Anti-shock- surge dampening

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QUALITY CONTROL
All Vacuvent air valves conform to a stringent set of criteria before leaving the factory.
All valves are tested for full functionality and corrosion protection quality before being released by
the in-house quality manager.
Corrosion protection is of the highest quality and the mild steel components are fusion bonded
epoxy coated. Threaded components interacting with the fusion bonded epoxy coated parts are wet
assembled using a two pack epoxy approved for use in potable water.
Quality control documents and material data sheets can be made available on request with
purchase.
The Vacuvent series VA air valve has very little that can corrode and is prepared for active duty in
water delivery pipelines.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The Vacuvent - VA anti-shock series of air valves are intended to reduce the risks associated with
pressure variance in pipelines. Surge and water hammer will always be present in fluid transporting
pipelines; the intent of the Vacuvent air valve is to effectively manage the affects thereof in liquid
transporting pipelines.
When water drains from the pipeline, the VA series air valve opens to allow atmospheric air to force
its way into the pipeline, preventing a negative pressure forming inside the pipeline. This allows for
designers to reduce wall thicknesses in their pipes as negative pressure will not have such a
substantial effect on the line.
During filling or introduction of air into a pipeline the Vacuvent VA series anti shock air valve will
throttle the outgoing air via the small orifice and anti-shock orifice. Pressure is regulated via a
pneumatic relay between the small orifice and the much larger anti-shock orifice. This system will
ensure that air is drained from the pipeline.
Where necessary an optional - full stainless steel - body construction can be specified.
Before being packaged all Vacuvent air valves have to pass functional tests such that it is ensured
that they will function fully upon delivery.

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General Information
FUNCTIONAL TESTING AND OVERALL INSPECTION
Before final release all valves will pass the following functional and visual tests:
1. Pneumatic Drop Test
Purpose: Simulation of anti-shock air release
Criteria: Pneumatic relay must open to release large quantities of air
2. Low Head Seal Test
Purpose: Check seal of the valve under no more than 2.75 Psi
Criteria: Drip dry seal
3. Hydrostatic Test
Purpose: Test valve integrity at no less than 1.5x the rated operating pressure
Criteria: No leaks on the seal or body
4. Pipeline Simulation Drop Test - Only on 10% of Valves
Purpose: To simulate the introduction of air in a filled pipeline under pressure
Criteria: Small orifice release of air up to working pressure
Anti- shock opening up to working pressure
5. Visual Inspection
Purpose: Ensure quality of the product
Criteria: No visible oil, dirt or debris on the inside or outside of the valve
No damage to corrosion protection systems
No visible rust
CORROSION PROTECTION
Vacuvent Air valves consist of stainless steel, polymer based and mild steel components; mild steel
components are fusion bonded epoxy coated to prevent corrosion to a minimum thickness of 250
microns DFT.
Screw thread of stainless steel components interacting with mild steel are wet paint assembled
using a two pack epoxy approved for use in potable water to prevent galvanic corrosion.
SHIPPING
Vacuvent air valves are packaged in sturdy container after being wrapped in shock absorbent
materials to ensure that the valve reaches its destination in good working condition.

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INSTALLATION, REMOVAL AND STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS
POSITIONING
Air valves should be positioned in very specific areas in order to function optimally. It is suggested
that Vacuvent air valves be placed on top of an air accumulator, shown below.
This accumulator should be a tee to the main pipeline; a reduction can then be added to which the
air valve is mounted. Minimum recommended dimensions are given in the drawing. The
accumulator facilitates the effective introduction of air into a draining pipeline. If an accumulator is
not used the incoming air may be swept away before effectively vented.
Figure 4- Air Valve Arrangement
It is good practice to add an isolator valve underneath the air valve, as shown in the image above,
to facilitate the removal of the air valve for maintenance or repair without disrupting the pipeline.
Air Valve isolating valves usually are either screwed or flanged ball valves (dependent on air valve
end connection ordered) on 1 “ to 2” Air Valves, Flanged Resilient Seal Gate Valves for 3” to 8” Air
Valves for design pressures up to 363 Psi and Flanged Wedge Gate Valves or Flanged Ball valves

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for 3” to 8” Air Valves for design pressures from 363 Psi up to 580 Psi, for higher sizes and /or
pressure ratings please consult us. Although we do not prescribe the type of valve that must be
used as an Air Valve Isolating Valve we generally recommend that the valve should be allow “full
bore” flow through it so that air flow is not restricted in any way.
AIR VALVE CHAMBER
An Air valve chamber should provide adequate drainage of water. An air intake and outlet should
also be provided that is of the same nominal bore or greater than that of the air valve so that a free
flow of air can enter and exit the chamber effectively.
INSTALLATION
SCREW TYPE
Screw type valves need to be installed following standard practices. It is however recommended to
mount the valve using PTFE thread tape. The air valve isolating valve can be screwed onto the air
valve prior to installation on the pipeline using a spanner on the hexagon section on the air valve
isolating valve whilst securing the air valve firmly. DO NOT USE A PIPE WRENCH ON THE AIR
VALVE AND ON THE BARREL OF THE AIR VALVE. THIS MAY RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE
COATING AND/OR MECHNICAL DAMAGE TO THE AIR VALVE.
FLANGED TYPE
Flanged type air valves require a suitable gasket to go between the mounting surface and the air
valve. Bolts should be placed though all the holes located on either flange with washer at both ends.
Bolts should be tightened in a crosswise fashion.
REMOVAL
SCREW TYPE
Removal of screw type valves are simple, first close the isolating valve located beneath the air
valve, then secure the isolating valve with a spanner on the hexagon section on the air valve
isolating valve and then using a suitable size flat bar or edge of spanner between the tightened tie
rods on the top of the valve lever the air valve in an ant-clockwise direction thereby loosening and
removing the air valve. DO NOT USE A PIPE WRENCH ON THE AIR VALVE AND ON THE
BARREL OF THE AIR VALVE. THIS MAY RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE COATING AND/OR
MECHNICAL DAMAGE TO THE AIR VALVE.
FLANGED TYPE
Close the isolating valve beneath the air valve and thereafter loosen all nuts and carefully remove
the bolts and washers, care should be taken on the fusion bonded coating that no damage occurs.

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STORAGE
All Vacuvent air valves should be stored in a moderately cool area free from debris. If debris cannot
be avoided, simply wrapping the air valve in plastic should be sufficient to prevent debris from
entering the internal mechanisms of the air valve.
OPERATION AND SIZING
GENERAL SIZING
BASIC OPERATION
Vacuvent have full valve size intakes (large orifices) but control the exhaust exclusively via the Anti-
Shock orifices.
No exhaust is vented via the large orifice and this function is specifically designed for (for further
reading, see technical information). This valve range covers most applications as standard but still
allows the designer some scope to specify more accurately.
BASIC PRINCIPLES
When a section drains down, the air valve at the apex must be sized to protect the pipe and seals
until the next valve lower down opens. So intake cannot be calculated by adding all the valves on
that section. Exhaust however is another matter and it’s feasible in some instances to add all the
anti-shock capabilities for one section. It’s also important to ensure that enough head (including
dynamic) is available to seal the valve off otherwise a syphon valve may be required. This is a
consideration on pumping systems where the final section after the apex has the possibility of
draining down faster than the pumping rate. Another factor is the differentiation between designed
flow rates and possible drainage rates. Drainage rates are generally estimated 2 times the designed
flow rates i.e. 1-2 m/sec flow rate and say 2-4 m/sec drainage. If the pipe is to be protected from
vacuum, generally the exhaust capability is more than adequate
PLACEMENT
The graphic shows most of the common places where air release valves are fitted. High points are a
natural start, also where the pipeline crosses obstacles like rivers and roads. Check for syphon
application above the hydraulic grade line. To control pump start and pump trip, air release valves
should be placed before and after the check valve.

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Figure 5- Pumped Example for Air Valve Placement
SIZING
Most sizing is based on the need to protect the pipeline from a negative pressure, vent the initial air,
and to vent the pressurised air with the importance generally in that order. A good start is to select
a scouring or drainage rate based on rupture or draining of 2-3 times the designed flow rate of that
particular section. Size the air release valves to protect the pipeline and seals from low pressure
within the pipeline during draining or other pipeline disturbances (e.g. pump trip).
One accepted method is to limit the internal pressure to 3.5 m ∆P (5 Psi) below atmospheric
pressure. The air release valves curves in each individual valve catalogue indicate that point and
the resultant inflow of air.
GENERAL OPERATION
The Vacuvent series air release valves provide a full bore solution to any pipeline. The large orifice
is not restricted in vacuum and during filling operation works through the anti-shock nozzle only.
Vacuvent air valves operate in reaction to the pipeline conditions and require no external input from
the end user.

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PIPELINE FILLING
Venting of large quantities of air
During pipeline filling a large amount of air needs to escape from the pipeline, during this operation
shown in figure 5- the small orifice, item 1 gives way and air discharges through the anti-shock
orifice, item 2, through the upper float.
This discharge will be sufficient for the pressurised air to evacuate the valve and the pipeline. This
type of valve operation is validated by Surge Analysis Software. It is not necessary for some or all
the air to exhaust through the large orifice as on other air valves.
After the air has exhausted from the pipeline and water fills the air valve, the smart anti-shock orifice
will shut and the air valve will once again pressurise.
Figure 6- Air Valve Anti-Shock Operation

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PIPELINE AT OPERATING PRESSURE
Venting of large quantities of air via the anti-shock
The valve will respond to large volumes of air when at operating pressure in the same manner as it
does during filling – this function is fully automatic through the smart anti-shock orifice as in the
previous figure.
Air Release from a Pipeline under Pressure (Small Orifice)
Figure 7- Air Valve Pressurised Air Release
In the above figure one can see the air accumulating in the valve with the pipeline under pressure,
generally only when small amounts of air enters the valve through the pressurized system – again
this operation is automatic. The air travels through the lower portion of the upper float and exists
through the small orifice, item 2, which in turn flows out of the anti- shock orifice, item 3.
PIPELINE DRAINING
Air Intake of a Draining Pipeline
Referring to the following figure:
Any negative pressure present within the pipeline causes the atmospheric air to force its way in
through the large orifice by pushing the upper float, item 1, downward on to the lower float, item 2,
at the bottom of the valve.

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Air enters the pipeline from the valve through the opening, item 3.
Figure 8- Air Valve Vacuum Function
As you can see, this one valve with its smart anti-shock will fulfil the functions of several different
valves without modification or ad-ons.
CONTACT DETAILS
Feel free to contact us regarding your Vacuvent valve should you require any additional information.
Maintenance manuals are available upon request.
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Mail: [e-mail]
Further Information: www.vacuventvalves.com