What is the recommended fill rate for water mains?

The recommended fill rate for water mains is 1 foot per second. This rate is established to ensure that the water can flow efficiently without causing excessive turbulence or pressure surges within the system. A fill rate of 1 foot per second strikes a balance between ensuring that the lines can be filled quickly and minimizing the risk of damaging the infrastructure or leading to inefficiencies such as water hammer or excessive friction losses.

At this flow velocity, the water is moving at a manageable pace, allowing for effective operation of valves, pumps, and hydrants without the complications associated with higher speeds, such as increased wear and tear on the piping system or potential leakage at joints and connections. Moreover, achieving this fill rate helps to maintain water quality by minimizing the potential for sediments to be disturbed within the main.

Higher fill rates, such as 2, 3 feet per second, or beyond can lead to increased wear on the system and potential operational issues, while lower rates may not efficiently serve the system's needs. Maintaining the recommended fill rate is crucial for long-term maintenance and operational reliability.