Extreme High Hazard Backflow Conditions

In a class the other day I was informed about a 3rd level of Hazard listed by ASSE for backflow prevention.  The 3rd level is Extreme High Hazard and includes systems that include Ethelyne Glycol, and Water Cooled Sewage Pumps.  When these situations arise many people will install a ASSE 1013 Reduced Pressure Backflow Preventer however it now calls for an AIR GAP!  Just an FYI for those of you that are into this kind of stuff.

If you need more information on this or anything having to do with Backflow Prevention and ASSE codes feel free to call Winstel Controls @ 513-251-4343 or visit www.winstelcontrols.com.

Help I have more parts stuck in my Backflow

In a follow up to my last post about Hydraulic Lock here is another tip on stuck backflow parts.  If you ever come across an Ames 2000/3000/4000/5000SS Series backflow (which is the same as the Watts 774 and 994 Series) that the checks are stuck in here is another trick.

The problem is the stainless steel body is a softer metal than the iron valves and can become "twisted" in line.  The body gets torqued just enough to stress the threaded connection of the plastic checks and you can't unthread them.  To alleviate the stress "pop" the bolts or unthread them just enough to loosen the connection.  There is no need to totally take the nut off we are just removing the torque not the backflow.  Now attempt to unthread, many times this makes all the difference.  ***Remember to tighten the connections when the repair is complete.

For more information call Winstel Controls @ 513-251-4343 or visit www.winstelcontrols.com

Help I can't get this part out of my backflow preventer!

If you have ever been working on a Backflow Preventer and couldn't get the parts out you may have encountered what is called HYDRAULIC LOCK.  What is that you say?  Well think of a suction cup being pressed down against a seal, the pressure creates a seal and the suction cup holds tight.

If you are dealing with a check that will not pull out it may be the same phenomenon of a pressure (think back pressure on a backflow) creating a suction between either a closed valve or another check seal.  The way to alleviate the vacuum is to open the test cock in the zone ahead of whatever part will not budge to let air into the zone and voila your part is free.

For more information or a more complete explanation call Winstel Controls at 513-251-4343 or visit www.winstelcontrols.com

New Wilkins 300 Series Backflows

Wilkins, a Zurn company, now sells a backflow preventer that can be removed without having to take it out of the pipe.  I know how is that possible???  The answer is an innovative cartridge design that lifts out of a valve box that stays in line all year round.  Get the safety of removing your backflow in the cold winter months and the convenience of leaving it in line all year round!!  Add in a blow out fitting and you also have a place to blow out the rest of your system without added fittings.

These backflow detectors can be seen or purchased at Winstel Controls.  Visit www.winstelcontrols.com or call 513-251-4343 for more details.