What is the Water Hammer Effect? 

The water hammer effect is a phenomenon of pressure fluctuation in a piping system that occurs when the fluid suddenly stops or changes speed drastically. In a heat pump system, especially when the circulation pump or valve is closed, this phenomenon may cause a reverse shock to the fluid in the piping, causing piping vibration and noise, and may even damage the piping or equipment.

Causes of Water Hammer Effect

  Water hammer is usually caused by a sudden loss or rapid transfer of fluid kinetic energy. For example, when a circulating pump or valve in a heat pump system is closed, the inertia of the fluid causes a sudden pressure increase that generates a shock wave. This phenomenon is particularly noticeable in long pipelines or under high flow conditions.

Specific manifestations in heat pump systems

  In heat pump systems, the Water Hammer Effect may manifest itself in sudden noise, pipe vibration or equipment damage. For example, a clear knocking sound may be heard when the centre stop valve of a system is suddenly closed, due to the propagation of a pressure wave in the piping created by the rapidly stopping liquid.

Methods for preventing and mitigating the water hammer effect

  The key to preventing the Water Hammer Effect is to take effective measures to slow down the change in fluid velocity and absorb pressure fluctuations. The use of appropriate valves and piping design during the design and installation stages can reduce the shock caused by sudden fluid changes. In addition, regular inspection and maintenance of the piping system is also an effective means of reducing the water hammer effect.

Solareast's strategy for dealing with water hammer is through the use of Expansion Tanks

  Solareast uses expansion tanks extensively in its heat pump systems to deal with water hammer. Expansion tanks are able to stabilise the system pressure by absorbing the extra pressure generated by the fluid in the system and reduce pressure fluctuations caused by sudden fluid changes. This technique not only protects pipework and equipment, but also improves the reliability and stability of the system, ensuring long-term operational efficiency.

Through the above measures and technologies, Solareast is committed to providing advanced and reliable heat pump system solutions to ensure that customers enjoy optimum energy efficiency and operational performance.