Air Valves

Air valves operate on a simple yet effective mechanism. Their primary role is to release trapped air or admit air into the water system, maintaining the right pressure and flow

Air Valve Products

Small Orifice, Automatic Air Valve
Item Details
Spheroidal Graphite Ductile Iron
PN14-PN21
DN25-DN50
BSPF / AS4087 / AS2129 Table E&F / ANSI
Single Air Valve
Item Details
Spheroidal Graphite Ductile Iron
Rubber – Cedar Core
PN14-PN21
DN25-DN50-DN80
BSPF / AS4087 / AS2129 Table E & F / ANSI
Epoxy Coating
Double Orifice
Item Details
Spheroidal Graphite Ductile Iron
Rubber – Cedar Core
PN14
DN50
BSPF
Epoxy Coating
Small Orifice
Item Details
Spheroidal Graphite Ductile Iron
Rubber – Cedar Core
PN14/PN21
DN-50-DN80 / DN100-DN150
AS4087 / AS2129 Table E & F / ANSI
Double Orifice, Isolation Valve
Item Details
Spheroidal Graphite Ductile Iron
Rubber – Cedar Core, EPDM, EPDM (PN21 on Request), EPDM (NBR on Request), Butyl, Gunmetal
PN14/PN21
DN50-DN80-DN100-DN150
AS4087 / AS2129 Table E & F / ANSI
Epoxy Coating

Air Valves

Air valves are designed for use in water systems and are available with either a small or large orifice. Valves can also be supplied with a combination of both a small and large orifice.

Small orifice air valves automatically release accumulated air in pipelines during normal operation. Air can enter a pipeline in several ways through pump glands, leaking joints and are sometimes contained in the fluid itself.

This air accumulates at the high points of the system and may result in large pockets of air forming which seriously impedes the flow and increases pumping costs. By locating air valves at specific points in the system, ventilation of these air pockets is achieved.

Large orifice air valves allow automatic ventilation of the pipeline during filling and emptying. When filling, air is exhausted at a sufficiently high capacity to prevent restriction of the filling rate due to built up back pressure. When emptying, air is admitted to the pipeline at a rate sufficient to prevent high vacuum pressures developing

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Air Valve Technical Sheets

Our commitment to industry to supply quality air valves, we have made these technical sheets available. If you need further information please make a technical enquiry. 

Air Valve Cross Section Diagram

Excellence in the Design & Engineering

When situated at strategic high points within the pipeline, John Valves’ air valves perform a vital function with remarkable efficiency. In their active state, these valves provide a clear passage for air to escape or enter, ensuring a stable and uninterrupted flow within the water system. This precise regulation of air optimises the flow and plays a crucial role in maintaining the desired pressure levels throughout the system.

In scenarios where the air has been appropriately vented or allowed in, the valves seamlessly return to their passive state, forming a tight seal that prevents unwanted air entry or escape.

This sealing capability is crucial for maintaining the overall efficiency and integrity of the water system, safeguarding against air-related issues such as pressure imbalances or vacuum conditions, which could otherwise lead to system inefficiencies or damages.

The durability and reliability of John Valves’ air valves are also noteworthy. These valves are engineered to endure challenging conditions, including fluctuating pressures, environmental elements, and diverse temperature ranges, which are a testament to robust construction and design.

This endurance, coupled with their crucial role in air regulation and ease of maintenance, makes John Valves’ air valves an indispensable asset in numerous applications, ranging from municipal water systems to industrial fluid management.

Discharge Capacities of Air Valves

Discharge capacity is a pivotal feature of John Valves’ air valves, crucial for maintaining water system efficiency. It measures the volume of air an air valve can release or admit, impacting the system during filling, draining, and regular operation. Our air valves are engineered for high discharge rates, ensuring smooth system functionality by preventing back-pressure during filling and avoiding vacuum conditions during draining.

Whether a small orifice for continuous air release or a large orifice for handling high-volume airflow. They are optimised for peak performance under varying pressures and flow conditions. This adaptability not only boosts operational efficiency but also safeguards the system against pressure-related damages, extending the longevity of the pipeline network.

John Valves’ air valves deliver precise airflow management, ensuring water systems run smoothly and reliably.

Air Valve Discharge Chart
Ball Valve 784

Advantages

  • Enhanced System Efficiency 
    By regulating air presence in pipelines, John Valves’ air valves ensure uninterrupted flow and optimal pressure management, increasing operational efficiency.
  • Reduced Maintenance Costs 
    Our air valves’ robust design and precision engineering minimise the need for frequent maintenance, translating to lower long-term costs.
  • Versatility 
    These valves are adaptable to various operational environments and are suitable for a wide range of pressure and flow conditions.
  • Improved Safety
    The valves play a crucial role in preventing pressure imbalances and vacuum conditions, thereby enhancing the overall safety of water systems.
  • Durability
    Constructed to withstand extreme conditions, our air valves maintain their functionality and integrity over extended periods, even in corrosive or fluctuating temperature environments.

Industry Uses

John Valves’ air valves are essential in various industries and are known for their reliability and precision. These valves, from municipal water systems and wastewater treatment to agriculture and industrial processes, ensure efficient, safe fluid management. This introduction highlights how our air valves meet the unique challenges across various sectors, demonstrating their versatility and importance in enhancing operational efficacy.

Water Supply Systems

Essential for managing air in city-wide water distribution networks, ensuring consistent water supply and system longevity.

Wastewater Treatment Plants

Used to prevent air locks and ensure efficient wastewater processing.

Irrigation Systems

Critical in agriculture for maintaining steady flow rates and preventing damage due to air entrapment.

Industrial Fluid Management

Ideal for a variety of industries where precise fluid control is necessary, including chemical processing, mining, and paper manufacturing.

Fire Protection Systems

Ensures optimal performance of fire suppression systems by managing air within the pipelines.

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Frequently Asked Valve Questions

If would like to know more, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.

A ball valve is a type of valve that uses a hollow, perforated, and pivoting ball to control the flow of fluids. It is opened when the ball’s hole is in line with the flow and closed when it is pivoted 90 degrees by the valve handle.

Air naturally collects at the highest points in a pipeline. This is where small orifice air release valves are usually found. When air enters the air valve, it lowers the level of the liquid inside it. Should the level drop below a certain point, the valve is triggered to open, thus venting air out of the piping system.As the air vents from the valve, liquid re-enters the valve body, eventually to the appropriate level needed for the valve to close. This process repeats as and when necessary.Large orifice air valves work by allowing the automatic ventilation of a pipeline during filling and emptying. When filling, air is exhausted at a sufficiently high capacity to prevent restriction of the filling rate due to built up back pressure. When emptying, air is admitted to the pipeline at a rate sufficient to prevent high vacuum pressures developing.

An air valve is used to automatically release air and gas from a pipeline system to optimize flow, prevent damage, and ensure efficient operation.

The main types include small orifice air valves for releasing small amounts of air during normal operations, large orifice air valves for handling large volumes of air during filling or draining, and combination air valves that perform both functions.

Air valves are vital for preventing air-related issues such as airlocks, pressure imbalances, and pipeline damage, ensuring smooth and efficient operation of water systems.

Yes, high-quality air valves like those from John Valves are designed to operate effectively under a range of pressures and in various environmental conditions, including corrosive or fluctuating temperature environments.

Air valves should be installed at strategic high points in the pipeline system and at critical locations where air is likely to accumulate or where vacuum conditions might occur.

The discharge capacity determines how much air the valve can release or admit within a specific time. Adequate discharge capacity is crucial for efficient system operation, preventing back-pressure buildup or vacuum conditions.

No, modern air valves are designed for easy maintenance. However, regular inspection and timely servicing are recommended to ensure optimal performance.

Absolutely; air valves are versatile and can be used in a variety of industrial applications, including chemical processing, mining, and in fire protection systems.

The selection depends on several factors, including the type of system, pressure conditions, and specific operational requirements. Consulting with valve experts like those at John Valves can help make the right choice.