Investigation of water hammer effect in sprinkler pipe network, measuring forces and strains along the pipes caused by water hammer phenomenon

Aim of project
The aim of this investigation is to develop knowledge concerning water hammer phenomenon in sprinkler pipe network as a result of sudden actuation of the system, as well as to measure forces, strains and tensions in installation elements material caused by water hammer.

The adopted system is not fi lled with water. It is air sprinklers equipment used for protection of an area where the danger of freezing or evaporation of water is expected. The installation is fed with water by a unit of pressure rising. Measurements of pressure distribution in sprinklers installation shall be carried out using tensometric pressure transducer of ranges related to the pressure values expected in particular cross-sections localized in places of changes of fl ow condition e.g. before and after elbow or before and after change of diameter.

Measurements which will be done during the research:
Measurements of pressure in feeding pipes;

Measurements of forces acting on elements fixing the installation to the supporting structure of the building;

Measurements of angle turn of the main valve handle. The subsequent survey shall be related to one, two and three simultaneously acting sprinklers.

Expected results
Results of the research will enable, among others, to estimate the water hammer phenomenon related to the state of free vibration of water-pipe configuration, to determine maximum pressure value, determine resultant of oscillation velocity, determine forces in pipe walls and deflection on the length of the pipe and finally to determine the best location of fixed points in the feeding pipe which carries the most part of load.

Pressure characteristics and force characteristics (with fixed points and without fixed points) shall be shown.