Surge Analysis
Surge analysis, or waterhammer analysis as it is often called, is a complex study, usually carried out using computer programs. Surge occurs in pumping systems due to changes in flow rates or pressures usually caused by operation of a valve, a pump start-up, or pump shutdown.
The worst cases for surge are usually, but not always, when the power supply to the pumping station, or to a particular pump, fails, causing pressure waves to build up suddenly in the pumping system.
A surge study would normally consider the following cases as a minimum:
We have extensive experience in surge analysis of large circulating water systems and auxiliary cooling water systems at Power Stations. We also have experience with municipal water supply schemes.
The worst cases for surge are usually, but not always, when the power supply to the pumping station, or to a particular pump, fails, causing pressure waves to build up suddenly in the pumping system.
A surge study would normally consider the following cases as a minimum:
- Priming of the system
- Normal pump start-up and normal stop
- Single pump trip
- Dual (or multiple) pump trips
- Complete pumping station trip
- Pump changeover from duty to standby
We have extensive experience in surge analysis of large circulating water systems and auxiliary cooling water systems at Power Stations. We also have experience with municipal water supply schemes.
