Building Hydraulic Systems: Water Supply & Fixtures

Understanding Building Hydraulic Systems

Hydraulic installations comprise a system of pipes (suction, discharge, and distribution), reservoirs, tanks, control valves, pumps, and hot water generators. These are essential for providing continuous hot and cold water to fixtures and other sanitary services within a building.

Purpose of Hydraulic Systems

The primary goal of hydraulic installations is to supply all required architectural spaces with adequate water and pressure, through appropriate sanitary fixtures, ensuring optimal functionality and service.

Water Distribution Pipes

Distribution pipes are branches that supply water to each level, zone, and fixture within a building. These can include horizontal distribution mains, as well as specific connections for individual fixtures.

Types of Water Valves

Valves are devices used to control or stop the flow of water. They can be classified by their mechanism, including globe valves, gate valves, ball valves, and butterfly valves. Proper selection and maintenance of these valves are crucial to ensure optimal service at the lowest cost.

Cold Water Air Chambers

Cold water air chambers primarily serve to eliminate air bubbles that may enter the pipes. The removal of air prevents the generation of water hammer, which can cause malfunctions in hydraulic systems and lead to air expulsion through sanitary fixtures.

Hot Water Air Chambers

Hot water air chambers are essential for eliminating steam when water temperature within heaters becomes excessively high. This prevents internal pressure from reaching dangerous levels.

Sanitary Fixtures in Buildings

Sanitary fixtures are all elements within a building's water installation that provide water service and facilitate water evacuation. These fixtures should be sanitary and aesthetically pleasing, typically made from non-absorbent and easily washable materials.

Types of Sanitary Fixtures

• Evacuation Fixtures: Toilets and urinals
• Cleaning Fixtures: Laundry tubs and sinks
• Hygiene Fixtures: Toilets, showers, bathtubs, bidets, and foot washes

Water Heaters Explained

Water heaters are appliances designed to produce hot water, typically installed for bathroom facilities. Various types of heaters are available, with gas and wood heaters being common, alongside electric and tankless (on-demand) models.

Boilers: Function and Components

Boilers are closed containers that use fuel to heat water, even to produce steam. Key components of a boiler include the combustion chamber (or firebox), burner, heat exchangers, and surrounding safety controls.

Boiler Classification Criteria

Boilers are classified according to:

• Application: Hot water or steam production
• Pressure and Temperature Specifications: Operating limits
• Construction Materials: Steel or cast iron
• Fuel Type: Oil, diesel, natural gas, or LP (liquefied petroleum)
• Assembly Method: Packaged (assembled and tested at the factory) or field-assembled (assembled at the site of operation)