In another article, we covered that hydro-pneumatic systems become an efficient and economical option to maintain an excellent level of pressure in the hydraulic network and improve the performance offered for different applications ranging from the use of showers inside the home to sprinkler irrigation outdoors.
On this occasion, we return to this topic to gather the 5 basic things to know about Well pressure Tanks. At the end of this article, you will have covered what they are for, how they work, how simple their selection and size are according to their use, what types of facilities exist, as well as some typical applications where this component is integrated. You will also find the well pressure tanks reviews.
What is a hydro-pneumatic tank or pressurized tank for?
A pressurized tank is necessary for the proper functioning of an automated water system for several reasons:
- The tank stores a reserve of water under pressure, so the cycle of turning the pump on and off is not so frequent,
- helping us in saving electricity since more energy is required for starting than to keep the electric pump in operation.
- Reducing the number of starts lengthens the life of the electric pump by preventing wear .
- Sometimes water is required faster than the electric pump can provide, so the tank can act as a reserve
- How does it work?
One of the known characteristics of gas is its comprehensibility or ability to reduce its volume within small spaces by applying pressure.
- Fact # 1: Air is compressible
- Fact # 2: Water is not compressible
Therefore, if we compress the air in a tank, the effect of a “giant spring” is created that provides a pressure range that can provide a quantity of water to be used.
In the following diagram, we cover 3 phases in its operation:
- Inside the tank there is a rubber diaphragm that separates air from water. The water is contained in a “poly-pro liner” and never touches the walls of the tank.
- When the water enters, it begins to “pressurize” the contained air and when reaching 50 PSI of pressure, the pump stops since the pressure of the tank is also 50 PSI.
- When a faucet is opened, air pressure forces the water out of the tank. When the air in the tank drops to 30 PSI, the pump starts to replace this water.
- How to select and size?
A simple way to size a tank is to take the required volume of water (GPM) and multiply it by 3 . From this result, refer to the tank capacity table and select the next size.
If you have not yet determined the amount of water required or flow in Gallons per Minute that your pump should offer you, consider this dimension to refer to the accessories that supply water: sinks, sinks, toilets and any other use (discard applications of water treatment such as hot water tanks or water filters).
- How is it installed in the System?
Some of the ways the hydro-pneumatic tank can be installed into your hydraulic system are as follows:
Also visit our article How to install your hydro-pneumatic system? to follow, in our step-by-step video, one of the suggested procedures for installation with a tank-mounted jet pump.
- What are some typical applications?
Here are some examples and descriptions of components for installations where the hydro-pneumatic tank is integrated into surface and submersible pumps.
Jet Pump for Shallow Wells (Depths up to 25 Feet)
Ideal installation for applications where the dynamic water level does not exceed 25 feet. 1 ¼ ”pipe is required and can be used in wells from 2”. Installation requires:
- Jet Pump with Pressure Switch
- Well pressure tank preloaded
- Hydraulic connections from the pump to the tank
- 1 ¼ ”suction pipe
- Foot valve or check valve as required by the well
Deep Well Submersible Pump (Depths up to 250 Feet)
Ideal installation for applications where the dynamic water level does not exceed 250 feet. Double tubing is required for suction. It can be used in a 4 ”or larger diameter well. Installation requires:
Submersible pump system including pressure switch, pressure gauge, relief valve, submersible cable and integrated check valve
- Well pressure tank preloaded
- Flexible coupling
- Removable Adapter or Discharge Coupling
- 1 “discharge pipe
