Water Hammer in Wash-Water Header
Industry Served: Food & Beverage
Problem:
A Midwest sugar processing operation needed a surge suppression solution that could:
- Absorb hydraulic shock from six 3/4" wash-water valves closing rapidly.
- Handle an estimated 300 GPM flow.
- Fit within tight piping constraints.
- Integrate with both old and new centrifugal configurations.
- Stay within the system's #150 flange / 275 PSIG pressure rating.
The team gathered detailed system information including flow estimates, pipe schedule, pressure limits, and isometric drawings. A surge control engineer reviewed the system and collaborated with the company to understand the transient conditions. A Teams call was held to walk through the piping schematic and confirm installation points.
Solution:
A Sentry II CT3120ND, 36 cu.in. Stainless Steel Pulsation Dampener with EPDM bladder was selected and sized specifically for the system's rapid-closing valve dynamics and 300 GPM flow. The unit provided instant absorption of pressure spikes, stabilized system pressure, protected the 3" header, and fit within the limited space available.
Result:
- Eliminated damaging water hammer events.
- Prevented recurring pipe failures.
- Improved reliability of batch centrifugals.
- Reduced maintenance and unplanned downtime.
- Delivered quieter, more stable wash-water operation.