Skip to main content

A water distribution system is an important aspect of a water supply network. These feature components that can transport water from wells or one centralized treatment plant to consumers. This is done to ensure an adequate supply of water is delivered to commercial, industrial, and residential sites, as well as to firefighters.

There are a number of different types of water installation systems, including gridiron systems, ring systems, radial systems, and dead-end systems. Let’s look at these four examples of water installation, their uses, and their pros and cons.

4 Examples of Water Installation with Pros and Cons of Each

1. Gridiron Water Systems

A gridiron water distribution system consists of one primary pipe that runs right through the center of the entire system and features branches and laterals running in a grid pattern. Because the branches, laterals, and mains are interconnected, the dead ends are all laminated and the water reaches different locations via various routes. The lack of dead ends means there is less chance of any recontamination.

Gridiron water installation systems are most likely found in a planned city, where streets and roads usually lie in well-planned square and rectangular grid patterns.

Benefits and Disadvantages of Gridiron Water Systems

There are pros and cons to using a gridiron water system. But both are worth exploring in more detail.

Pros

The reduction of the chance of pollution because of stagnation due to the absence of a dead end is a major benefit. Additionally, only a small region of the system is affected when repair and maintenance work is required.

Another major benefit of using a gridiron water system is that there will be enough water available at street fire hydrants.

Cons

These systems have some disadvantages, such as requiring an inordinate amount of cut-off valves. Longer pipes with a much bigger diameter are also required. Additionally, it can be more challenging to work out discharge, pressure, and velocities within the pipelines.

Gridiron water systems are also less economical compared to alternative distribution methods.

2. Ring Systems

Ring mains are an excellent method of water distribution out of these examples of water installation. Water flows in a loop, with multiple pipelines forming a circular ring. The unique design provides redundancy for an area’s water supply network in the event of a pipeline failure. When a section of the pipeline fails, water can be rerouted through another section of the ring to maintain supply to users.

Benefits and Disadvantages of Ring Systems

Ring mains are a great way to deal with water distribution, but there are downsides to using them.

Pros

The ring design offers several pathways for water to flow, reducing the risk of supply interruptions during pipeline failures and maintenance. Ring systems can also protect water quality. The design allows for the constant flow of water, eliminating the chance of stagnation. The risk of pipe ruptures and leaks is also minimized in a ring design due to its ability to manage pressure more adequately within the network.

Cons

The most significant disadvantage of using a ring system is that more pipes and valves are required compared to other systems, giving it a higher initial cost. Another disadvantage is the need for highly skilled workers to lay the lines correctly, increasing installation labor costs as well.

3. Radial Systems

A radial water system refers to a water distribution system where water is distributed from a central point, such as a water treatment plant or an elevated water reservoir. It circulates outward to the surrounding areas through a network of pipelines that radiate out from the central point like spokes on a wheel. This system provides very fast service with minimal loss of head and a very simple pipe-laying system design. Radial water systems can be used in large buildings and even across entire cities with radially designed roads.

Benefits and Disadvantages of Radial Systems

There are pros and cons to using a radial system to distribute water from a central point. Let’s look at both sides.

Pros

A radial water system allows for better water availability with a higher discharge and minimal head loss. Another major benefit of the radial water system is that repair work affects fewer numbers of users.

Cons

One significant disadvantage of a radial water installation system is the major complexity of the pipe-laying system design. More pipe lengths will also be needed as the connection is greater in this system.

4. Dead-End Systems

As the name suggests, a dead-end system contains dead ends within the pipe system, meaning there is not a continual flow of water in this system. Instead, the entire pipe network is divided into several sub-networks, primarily branch and main lines, service connections, and sub mains.

Dead-end systems are often used in older cities and towns with no particular road pattern.

When designing a dead-end system, a central main line is laid through the distribution area. Subs mains are laid along both sides of the main line and then divided into branches and, finally, service connections.

Benefits and Disadvantages of Dead-End Systems

When it comes to dead-end systems, there are several advantages and disadvantages to explore.

Pros

One of the system’s main advantages is that pipes can be laid easily in this network, reducing the cost of a project. Additionally, the pressure and discharge in each pipe can be easily and accurately calculated, making design calculations simpler.

Cons

However, one of the main disadvantages of a dead-end system is that the pressure is not constant and can be low at remote parts. Stagnation is also not uncommon due to the dead ends, leading to sediment deposition that requires more scour valves to be installed.

Another major disadvantage is that if any damage occurs in the branch line, the whole supply network must be stopped to repair it, causing discomfort to other users in that sub-main line. Finally, it is essential to note that a limited discharge is available for fire operations in this type of system.

Speak with the Utility Experts at Muller, Inc. in the DMV

Muller, Inc. is an expert in utilities and water installation systems of all examples or types. Let our experts in the DMV area help you with your next project. Contact us today or call 703-560-4040.

Leave a Reply