Pressure Regulation in the Water Supply System
Pressure regulation in the water supply system is an important task, as it allows for reduced costs and improved system efficiency. There are several approaches for its implementation.
Old Variant
The first approach, used back in the USSR, involves the installation of two pumps at support points and pressure relays. In this system, if the relay does not trigger, only one pump operates, and when the relay activates – both pumps do. This provides two levels of regulation: the first – during low water consumption, and the second – for peak usage.
However, this system has proven to be inefficient. One pump, operating at night or during the day when there is no water intake, is capable of creating high pressure, leading to increased water consumption and, consequently, to the breakdown of shut-off valves, pipes, and household appliances.
Another drawback is the instability of pressure, which strongly depends on water consumption. Energy consumption in this system remains high, as there is no difference in costs at 5% or 30% water draw.
Modern Solutions
Modern solutions include the installation of frequency converters, which allow for the regulation of pump operation. In one of the system variants, a single pump with a frequency converter is installed, and other pumps can be activated as needed. The main pump maintains the required pressure in the system, using data from a pressure sensor for this purpose.
- Water Savings: about 10% due to reduced unnecessary faucet openings.
- Energy Savings: up to 40% by consuming energy only in necessary volumes.
This system is particularly effective when water draw is low for extended periods.
Alternative Option
Another modern pressure management option involves using a single pump with a frequency converter for the entire system. The idea and advantages are similar to the previous option, but this system is cheaper because one 45 kW frequency converter costs less than four 11 kW converters.
Cost of the Solution
The price of the solution consists of the cost of the frequency converter and the pressure sensor, the price of which starts at 1000 UAH.
More information can be found on the website: frequency converters.