Distribution Network Components Flashcards
(405 cards)
The primary purpose of a distribution network is to
deliver adequate volumes of safe drinking water
to system customers at adequate pressures.
Another important purpose of a distribution network is to
provide adequate fire flows to areas of the
system.
Components of Distribution Networks
Pipes
Storage Facilities
Pumps
Valves
Hydrants
Meters
Transmission systems are used to convey water from
system’s source of supply to the distribution
network.
Typical Characteristics of Transmission Systems
Large diameter pipelines
May be miles in length
Typically, no service connections directly from a transmission system
Water Mains and Related Equipment
Pipe Features Size
Distribution network pipes are normally sized to accommodate normal and peak system flows
and fire flows without adversely impacting water quality or resulting in an excessive pressure
drop.
Water Mains and Related Equipment
Pipe Features Material
Distribution network pipes are constructed of material that is durable and corrosion resistant.
Materials currently used for distribution network pipes include ductile iron, steel, concrete,
and plastic.
Materials often used for older pipes in a distribution network include cast iron, asbestos
cement, galvanized iron, and wood.
Water Mains and Related Equipment
Pipe Features Pressure Rating
The pressure rating of a pipe is a measure of the maximum normal pressure that a pipe is
able to withstand.
The pressure rating of a pipe will vary based on pipe material and pipe class.
What do Joints Do?
Connect two pipe segments.
Types of Joints
push-on, mechanical, flanged, mechanical couplings, sleeve, welded,
and harness or restrained sleeves.
What do fittings do?
Fittings can be used to connect pipes of the same or different size, change the direction of
flow, or stop flow.
Typical fittings include
sleeves, reducers, bends, tees, and caps.
Water main installation begins with…
…excavation. Excavation for water main installation is expensive
and dangerous.
Who has information and training that is recommended for excavation?
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Preparations for excavation must be made in advance so…
the job will run smoothly, efficiently, and
safely
How many workers are killed each month in trenches?
2
Before excavation can begin
the project must be well planned and safety must be a
consideration.
To protect the trench and workers from traffic
the excavated material should be piled on
the pavement side of the trench.
Place all excavated or fill materials a minimum of…
wo feet away from the top edge
of the trench. If materials need to be closer than two feet from the edge of the
trench, install an effective barrier to prevent them from falling into the excavation.
Before entering the trench…
determine if shoring is necessary.
-OSHA requires a protective system for trenches 5 feet or greater in depth.
Normal oxygen levels range from…
19.5 to 21.5%.
Trenches 4 feet or more in depth must have…
a safe means of egress.
Spacing between ladders or other means of egress must be such that a worker will
not have to travel more than…
25 feet laterally to the nearest means of egress
Ladders must be…
secured and extend a minimum of 36 inches above the landing.