Flash Cards - CPD ASPE

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What does the Manning Formula describe? The velocity of uniform flow in sloping drains.

Rainwater, surface runoff, ground water, subsurface water, or similar

Define Stormwater: clear liquid wastes, exclusive of sewage, condensate, and industrial
waste

Design of a storm drainage system is based on the piping flowing

full under uniform flow conditions. Downspouts (also called
What is different about storm water drainage system design? conductors or leaders) and horizontal piping can also flow full as
maintaining hydraulic pressures within any fixed limits in the system
is not necessary as it is in a sanitary drainage system.

If the storm piping is run separately from the sanitary piping, how
many traps are required before connection to the sanitary system or One.
combined sewer?

An expansion joint, either integral or separate. This prevents the

pipe expansion and contraction (from severe outdoor temperature
The connection to roof drains should always use what? swings and a fairly constant inside temperature) from raising the
roof drain and destroying the integrity of the water proofing at the
roof.

Low temperature liquid flow in storm water piping will cause

Why is condensation a concern for roof drainage and how can it be condensation to form on piping inside the building. Insulation of
overcome? pipes and roof drain bodies will keep the condensation from
dripping onto the ceiling or floor.

The required rate of discharge from any collection area, dependent

What is the design criterion for storm water sizing? on the size of the area, and the maximum rate of rainfall per hour.

24 sq.ft To apply this for other rates of rainfall, multiply (24x4) and
At 4 in/hr rainfall, roughly how much area will result in 1 gpm of
divide by the new rate. (There should be tables for this in all
rainfall? plumbing codes)

Are vertical walls included in the calculation for stormwater runoff? Some codes require 50 percent of the area of vertical walls be
added to the horizontal drained area. Some do not.

Strainer, flashing ring (and gravel stop, where required) and drain
Name the three basic components of a roof drain: body or sump.

Mushroom, or domed, strainers should be used for roofs where

leaves or other debris may accumulate. Corner strainers are
Where should strainers be used and how big should the open area required when the drain is located at the corner of the roof and the
be? parapet or a vertical wall. The open area of the strainer should be
1.5 to 2 times the area of the pipe to which it connects.

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 Siphonic roof drains, which restrict the air flow and swirl, allowing
Special pipe sizing applies to which type of roof drains and why? full use of the downspout for water only.

What minimum velocity is required for storm water piping? And 3 fps and 2 fps.
what is the minimum for sanitary piping?

The flow in storm drainage piping during the maximum rainfall

What sizing method is used for a combined system and why? period is almost always in excess of the flow in the sanitary piping at
(Sanitary or Storm Drain?) maximum design conditions. Therefore, it is better to base sizing of
combined systems on storm drainage design.

For 256 FU or less, use 1000 SF. For greater than 256 FU, multiply
the FUs by 3.9 SF to convert to the equivalent drained area. For
What is the procedure for converting sanitary fixture unit loads to continuous or intermittent flow, multiply each GPM of flow by 24 SF
equivalent square feet of drained area? to convert to the equivalent drained area. Add the converted
sanitary equivalent drained area to the storm drainage area and use
table to get pipe size.

To collect and convey all excess storm water from the site to a
The primary objective of a site drainage system is...?
convenient and code-approved storage and/or discharge point.

Determination of the probable maximum rate of runoff before and

What is a fundamental requirement for site drainage design? after the site is altered. The difference between the before and after
runoff volumes determines the amount of excess storm water.

Under the lower-level or basement floor, or around the perimeter

Where do subsoil drains typically go? of the building.

Open-jointed, horizontally split or perforated clay tile, perforated

What should sub-soil drains be made of? bituminized-fiber pipe; or plastic pipe, not less than 4” in diameter.

The perforations should be pointed downward, and should be

Where should the perforations go and what should surround this surrounded by a minimum of 12” pea gravel, number 1 stone, or
pipe? number 2 stone.

Where should the subsoil pipe discharge? Into a sump. This sump is not required to be vented.

A pond, retention area, underground tanks, or volume in the piping

What can be done if retention is needed on the site? can be designed to handle retention.

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 The exact amount of rainfall is never known, a hypothetical design
storm is used, hydraulic conditions at discharge points are
extremely variable, the percentage of rainfall that actually runs over
Name some unknown and unknowable factors that can complicate the ground, over the parking lot, and off the roof and enters the
storm water piping is the most variable factor of all. It varies with
site drainage design
the time of year, preceding rainfall conditions, soil characteristics,
type of site improvements, slope of ground, etc. Keep these things
in mind and use reasonable assumptions to obtain an economic and
adequate, code compliant site drainage system.

They could affect site grades, building elevation, possible

Why are preliminary investigations of site drainage systems so
unforeseen costs, and the additional loading of the municipal sewer
important? system, which may already be overtaxed.

Are site drainage slope requirements steeper or shallower than Shallower.

building plumbing slope requirements?

When there are no unusual conditions or requirements, what

design frequency (or “return period”) should be used for an average 10 years, 15 at most. Beyond that consider other measures such as
dikes or emergency pumps.
site?

In terms of storm water, what is the “Rational Method” used for? To determine the amount of runoff created in a storm.

The time it takes for the entire area to start contributing to the flow
at a given point. The time of concentration for an inlet is time it
What is “the time of concentration?” takes for rainfall to accumulate and flow over the ground to the
inlet (sometimes called “inlet time.”)

The sum of the inlet time at the upper most inlet plus the time of
What is the time of concentration in a storm sewer system?
flow in the pipe using the average slope of the site.

1. Slopes should provide a minimum velocity of 2.5 fps under design

conditions to prevent deposition within the pipe during periods of
peak flow. 2. Cover over piping will vary. Verify structural ability of
What are the four rules for hydraulic design, ensuring the the piping material to carry loads. 3. Sufficient change in pipe invert
establishment of the exact size, slope, and invert of all sewer pipes? should be allowed at structures to provide for hydraulic losses
occurring at these points. 4. Where changes in pipe size occur, pipe
should be laid crown to crown to avoid surcharge of the upstream
pipe.

The equivalent drainage area of each inlet and building connection

is taken into account. The equivalent area is the product of the
When designing site drainage, how is the equivalent area actual area in acres times the runoff coefficient, C. The runoff
calculated? coefficient is based on the absorption capabilities and the surface
roughness characteristics of the surface across which the water will
drain.

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 Manholes: used where no surface water enters the system Drain
inlets: used in any point in paved areas where surface water enters
Name three types of drainage structures (for site drainage) the sewers Catch basins: which are similar to drain inlets but are
located in grassy or unimproved areas.

What type of pipe is not acceptable for storm sewers and why? Vitrified tile pipe because it is brittle and weak in larger diameters.

The unit increase in length of a material per 1 degree F increase in

Define “Coefficient of Expansion” temperature

The water distribution system must always be designed on the basis The minimum pressure available.
of ____?

For building connections Between the building sewer and the first
downstream structure, cast iron soil pipe is recommended. This
pipe will better withstand shock loads from materials and
What are typical pipe types used for different areas of storm equipment likely to be encountered within close vicinity of
sewers? buildings, and has a large variety of fittings available. Reinforced
concrete pipe is most satisfactory for general use elsewhere, and is
often not readily available in sizes under 12 inches. PVC may also be
used. Check the code.

What is the maximum total movement that should be absorbed by 1-1/2 inches.
any expansion loop or offset?

No, the expansion loop or joint is usually omitted in most piping

Would you say that expansion joints are required in the great systems by taking advantage of the changes in direction normally
majority of piping systems? required in the layout.

What is one of the most persistent myths in plumbing related to Turning motion occurs at the elbows of an expansion loop. This is
thermal expansion? absolutely false.

By the flexure of the pipe (never by a rotating motion of the

fittings). The developed length of pipe available for flexure is the
How is movement accommodated in expansion fittings? only thing that limits the amount of expansion that can be
accommodated. The number of elbows does not matter.

What are two types of thermal expansion joints? The slip type and the bellows type.

The slip type joint requires packing and lubrication, and therefore
Describe some design considerations of a slip type joint. maintenance access. Guides must also be installed in the lines into
the slip joint to keep the pipe from bending and binding in the joint.

Does the bellows type joint satisfy the design limitation for The Bellows joint is very satisfactory for the 1-1/2 inch design
movement? What is the limitation and are guides required for a limitation on movement. Guides should be used with this type of
bellows joint? joint to prevent an offset movement.

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 To control piping expansion occurring with any change in
What is the main point behind supports, anchors, loops, guides and temperature and cause it to move in the direction desired by the
expansion joints? designer. If expansion in a branch is not adequately accounted for,
the branch may break causing flooding damage.

The turning point between laminar (streamline, viscous) flow and

What is critical velocity in a pipe? turbulent flow.

What is the Reynolds Number Range of critical velocity in a pipe? 2,000 to 4,000

What is the Reynolds Number for critical velocity in a domestic 2,100

water system?

In laminar flow, which has the largest effect on flow? (Pipe Viscosity significant, roughness negligible.
roughness or velocity?)

In turbulent flow, which has the largest effect on flow? (Pipe Roughness significant, velocity negligible.
roughness or velocity?)

Static head is a measure of potential energy of a fluid and it occurs

What is static head and where does it occur? whenever a free surface of water is exposed to atmospheric
pressure.

How do you convert from feet of head to psi? Multiply the height by 0.433.

How do you convert from psi to feet of head? Multiply psi by 2.31.

Friction head loss is inversely proportional to...? The diameter of the pipe.

Friction head loss is directly proportional to...? The roughness and length of the pipe.

Friction head loss varies approximately with the square of the

How does friction head loss relate to velocity? velocity.

What equation is used to determine friction head loss? The Darcy Equation

What are the average values for the coefficient of friction for brass 0.02 for brass and copper, and 0.04 for steel
and copper and for steel?

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What is the rule of thumb for determining equivalent length of Assume 50 percent of the developed length as an allowance for
piping in design phase? fittings and valves.

What other factor has an effect on pressure drop through a fitting? Velocity

What should always be of prime importance to the plumbing The maximum velocity of water flow in the piping during periods of
designer? peak demand.

What maximum velocity should never be exceeded? 10 fps

Noise, cavitation, increase danger of hydraulic shock and water

Name some adverse effects of high velocity flow in piping: hammer, increase erosion and corrosion.

Hydraulic shock occurs when fluid flowing through pipe is subjected

to a sudden and rapid change in velocity, such as may be caused by
a quick closing valve. The kinetic energy of the fluid is converted
into a dynamic pressure wave (which may travel at rates as high as
What is hydraulic shock? 3,000 miles/hr). The longer the pipe and the faster the velocity, the
greater the pressure wave (surge). This pressure wave produces an
impact, travelling back and forth until it is dissipated. When pipe is
not adequately supported, this wave causes the pipe to vibrate or
hit against building structure.

What is water hammer? The noise created by pipes moving as a result of hydraulic shock.

If piping is restrained from moving, it will be subjected to what kind Compressive stress on a temperature rise, and tensile stress on a
of stresses? temperature drop.

When piping cannot move freely, where does failure due to thermal At the pipe joints and fittings, as the pipe itself can usually
expansion and contraction usually occur? withstand these stresses.

What two methods are usually employed to absorb pipe expansion 1. Expansion loops and offsets 2. Expansion joints
or contraction without danger to the piping?

Velocity head (V^2 over 2g) is a measure of the decrease in static

Define velocity head. pressure head experienced in feet of water column.

Friction head is the pressure loss along the line of flow caused by
What is friction head and which equation do you use to find it? the friction produced by flowing water. You use Bernoulli’s equation
to solve for it.

The pressure measured at any point while water is flowing (this is

What is flow (or residual) pressure? the pressure read on a pressure gauge installed in the piping.) Flow
pressure can be ignored in plumbing calcs.

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 1. The density and temperature of the fluid 2. The roughness of the
Name the four things that affect head loss due to friction pipe 3. The length of the run 4. The velocity of the fluid

Expand and burst pipe, weakened joints, leaks, vibration, broken

hangers, valve and faucet wear, ruptured tanks and heaters, damage
to meters, gauges, and temperature regulators, and accelerated
What are some effects of hydraulic shock? deterioration of the entire piping system. Hydraulic shock can occur
without water hammer, destroying a system before danger is
recognized.

The starting and stopping of pumps, improper check valves, rapid

What are the most common causes of hydraulic shock? closure of valves; particularly the last 15 percent of movement.

What is a simplified expression for the increase in pressure caused The Jacowsky Formula
by hydraulic shock?

What is one device that was used as a means of controlling Air chambers. They often were improperly sized and almost always
hydraulic shock until it was deemed ineffective? lost their air charge.

Swing check valves, because when the pump stops, a reversal of

What kind of valves should never be used in the discharge line of
flow occurs, and the check slams closed, causing a sudden change in
pumps and why? velocity.

Spring-loaded check valves because they are designed to close at

What kind of valve should always be installed in the discharge line the exact moment water flow comes to a rest. The velocity of flow
of pumps and why? does not change when the check closes, thus no hydraulic shock is
produced.

The pressure loss of flowing fluid due to friction varies

approximately with the square of _______, and is directly related to The Velocity, the roughness of the pipe wall.
_________?

When the direction of flow is sharply changed and the velocity of

What can cause cavitation to occur in piping? flow is high, fluids flowing around a short bend radius at a high
velocity.

The centrifugal force developed around a short bend radius at high

velocity causes an increase of pressure at the outer bend with a
resultant lowering of pressure at the throat. This low-pressure zone
can drop below atmospheric pressure to a pressure that
corresponds to the boiling point of the flowing fluid. Under this
Describe the phenomenon of cavitation. condition, the cavity that forms at the inside of the bend permits
the fluid to flash into vapor or steam bubbles. Once these bubbles
flow past the low-pressure zone into normal pressure area
downstream, these bubbles collapse. As the bubbles collapse, they
literally tear the metal off the pump casing, causing a pitted facia.

What is an easy way to eliminate noise problems in plumbing? Maintain a flow velocity under 8 FPS in all parts of the pipe.

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 The flow that will occur if the outlets on all of the fixtures are
opened simultaneously (maximum possible flow). The flow that is
Define Maximum Flow, Average Flow, and Maximum Probable Flow: likely to occur in the piping under normal conditions. The maximum
flow that will occur in the piping under peak conditions (peak
demand or peak flow).

Give examples of continuous demand outlets and intermittent Continuous: hose bibbs, lawn irrigation, air-conditioning make up,
demand outlets. water cooling, etc. Intermittent: plumbing fixtures.

Empirical method and Method of Probability. EM: Based on

arbitrary decisions arrived at from experience and judgement and is
Name and describe the two methods of determining peak demand useful for only small groups of fixtures. MP: Based upon the theory
for domestic water systems in the US. of probabilities and is most accurate for large groups of fixtures.
(Never use for a small number of fixtures.) Remember to add FU
values and not GPM values. Add all FUs first, then convert to GPM.

Weighting fixtures in accordance with their water supply load-

What factors are “fixture units” based on? producing effects on the water system.

What was the name of the standard that first introduced fixture unit BMS 65, Methods of Estimating Loads in Plumbing Systems by Dr.
Roy B Hunter (published in the 1940s by the National Bureau of
tables? Standards).

Estimate the continuous demand separately from the intermittent

How do you estimate the demand for a system with both demand and add this amount in gpm to the demand of the fixtures
continuous and intermittent fixtures? in gpm.

So that the highest and most remote water outlet will have the
Why must friction head losses be limited in the water piping required minimum pressure for adequate flow during periods of
system? peak demand.

What is the maximum friction head loss that can be tolerated in the The difference between the pressure at the outlet of the meter
minus the flow pressure required at the fixture minus the pressure
system during peak demand? drop of any equipment or piping accessories in between.

In parallel circuits, the _____ in each branch is such that the _____ Flow, pressure drop.
_____ is also equal.

Why are minimum pipe sizes given in domestic water design? To maintain the velocity of the flow below the maximum 10 fps.

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 Step one: Draw a riser diagram of the complete water distribution
system showing floor to floor heights, the static pressure at each
floor, the minimum pressure required at the highest outlet and the
minimum available pressure. Step two: Mark the FU value at each
outlet and the sum of FUs for every section of the system. (Add FU
values, not GPM values, except for continuous demands). Step
three: Convert all FU values to GPM values and assign GPM to
Describe the procedure for sizing domestic water systems: continuous demand outlets. Step four: Determine the pressure
available for friction head loss and establish the uniform friction
head loss. Remember the furthest fixture may not always be the
controlling fixture. Step five: Use hydraulic tables or charts to select
sizes. The selection will be based on gpm demand, uniform friction
head loss, and max design velocity. Remember to make sure the
size selected doesn’t exceed the maximum allowable velocity.

Which formula are most all friction head loss tables and charts The Darcy-Weisbach formula.
based on?

Exclusively on the basis of total pressure available for friction head

How is maximum friction head loss determined? loss and the longest equivalent length of run (ELR).

1) Use the pressure available as calculated during summer months.

Name three “good practice” measures to employ when determining 2) Don’t use any pressure data that is more than two years old. 3)
available domestic water pressure for a building: Assume a design pressure that is 10 psi less than the stated
available pressure.

1. Gravity Tank System 2. Hydropneumatic Tank System 3. Booster

What are three ways to overcome inadequate building pressure?
pump system

What changes in plumbing design if a booster pump or The minimum available pressure is no longer fixed or unchangeable,
hydropneumatic tank are used? it can be selected and determined by the designer.

What are some economic considerations for a booster There are initial savings in piping and insulation costs versus
pump/hydropneumatic tank system? increased initial costs for equipment and increased operating costs.

A design criterion of 4-5 psi per 100 ft uniform friction head loss
generally results in an economically designed system, depending on
What uniform friction head loss (per 100 ft of pipe) is thought of as the length of pipe run. In many specific installations, it can be far
an economically designed booster/hydropneumatic system? more advantageous to design for much lower or much higher
pressure drops, depending on design conditions. Evaluate each
situation independently.

When a pump with a rotating surface has significant clearance

between itself and the stationary passage, the pump does not have positive displacement
_________?

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In a pump, if the direction of discharge from the rotating surface is
axial
inline with the shaft, the pump is which type?

In a pump, if the direction of discharge from the rotating surface is

partly radial and partly axial, the pump ispartly radial and partly mixed flow
axial, the pump ispartly radial and partly axial, the pump is partly
radial and partly axial, the pump is what type?

Give an example of a centrifugal pump, an axial pump, and a An automobile water pump, a boat propeller, and the human heart
positive-displacement pump.

What is the working limit design pressure for standard plumbing 125 psi.
equipment to minimize the risk of explosion?

Adequate amounts of hot water, safe performance, economical heat

List the five objectives for the design of an efficient hot water source, cost-effective and durable installation, economical operating
distribution system. system with reasonable maintenance.

A combined (or separate) temperature and pressure relief valve.

Overheating is the direct cause of explosions, protection against
excessive temperature and pressure is needed. Temperature and
What may be installed to prevent explosions in hot water systems? pressure relief valves must have a relief capacity of not less than the
pressure or heat input at maximum operating capacity. Every relief
valve should have a discharge pipe connected to it’s outlet of at
least the size of the valve discharge outlet.

25-30 lbs higher than the system operating pressure (or 125 psi) to
avoid false opening and dripping due to normal pressure surges.
What can the pressure setting on the relief valve be set to? The pressure setting must be less than the maximum working
pressure of the materials in the system.

What is the first step in selecting a hot water heater? Knowing the required capacity.

When selecting a hot water heater, what cold inlet and rise 40 degree cold inlet, 100 degree F rise
temperatures are commonly used?

What is a good standard hot water temperature and why? 140F because it kills legionella and other harmful bacteria

Simple, inexpensive in installation, piping, controls. Used in homes,

Describe Direct Fired Storage water heaters (application, pros, etc.) small commercial. Low demand heaters with low btu inputs so the
heating of the water is spread over several hours.

When using a fuel fired water heater, you must always provide Combustion air
what?

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 No built in storage, designed to deliver full capacity rapidly and
continuously. Must have sufficient capacity to meet all demands
simultaneously. Require a high heat input to meet the required
Describe Instantaneous Water Heaters (application, pros, etc.) discharge rate and temperature of hot water. Best applied where
demands are level and constant, such as swimming pools,
dishwasher boosters, industrial processes. They heat the water
through conduction.

A hot water temperature limit to prevent scalding water from

What should always be provided with instantaneous water heaters? entering the system. This is becoming more standard regardless of
the type of water heater used.

The U-tube, removable bundle exchanger with steam or boiler

What is the most common form of instantaneous water heater? water in the shell and domestic water flowing through the tubes.

How should the instantaneous water heater be configured if the A straight-tube, floating head exchanger should be used in lieu of
characteristics of water are such that rapid scale deposits are the U-tube heater.
possible?

What is the minimum velocity that should be maintained through 4 fps. This will minimize the rate of scale formation in the tubes.
the tubes on an instantaneous water heater?

The heat transfer rate increases or decreases when water velocity increases.
increases in the tubes?

Adequate control of the temperature of the outlet water to within

Name one problem with instantaneous water heaters. acceptable limits during fluctuating demand. This fluctuation is
called overshooting or undershooting.

Fixture units. Peak demand for hot water using this method is two
What are the sizing of instantaneous hot water heaters most to three times actual demand, so it is recommended that usage
commonly based on? factors be applied to select the most economically sized
instantaneous hot water heater.

A limited-storage type heater that contains between 10 to 20

seconds of domestic water storage according to its rated heating
capacity. (A 60 gpm rated heater will have approximately 20 gal of
Describe a semi-instantaneous water heater (application, pros, etc.) water in its shell) This small quantity of water allows the
temperature control system to react to sudden fluctuations in water
flow and to maintain the outlet water temperature to within +/- 5
degrees F.

A water heater that serves to raise the temperature of the regular

What is a booster water heater? hot water supply to some higher temperature needed to perform
special functions.

1. Only as much water as is required for the specific job needs to be

heated to above normal system temperatures. 2. Savings in capital
costs, maintenance, and operating costs are derived from the
Name three advantages of a booster water heater. limited use of very hot water. 3. Small boosters can be located near
their jobs, with simple controls, minimal waste, and smooth
operation.

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 To smooth out peak demands on heating systems with large-volume
changes in hot water demand. When correct storage capacity is
What is the primary reason for selecting a storage type water combined with the correct recovery capacity and the proper size of
heater instead of instantaneous? heating medium control valve, substantial reduction of the peak
heating fluid demand can be realized.

Of the water stored in a storage hot water, what percentage is 70 percent, because the stored water is cooled by the entering cold
useable and why? water.

By what method does hot water supply piping (whether insulated or Convection, conduction, and radiation.
not) transfer heat to surrounding lower-temperature air?

In lieu of a circulation system, what else can be done to maintain

Use heat trace.
hot water temperatures in piping?

Since increased water temperatures can be damaging to pipes,

what maximum hot water velocity should be used to keep the hot 6 fps for copper pipe, similar fps for other types of pipe.
water from eroding the pipe?

Oversizing will cause additional money to be spent on materials and

What effects do oversizing and undersizing have on a hot water create additional heat losses. Undersizing will seriously hamper
circulating system? circulation, thus preventing adequate hot water from being
immediately available to all the fixtures.

1. The heat loss rate of the piping 2. The temperature differential at

What three basic factors determine the rate of circulation in hot which the system is to operate. 3. The allowable friction head loss in
water piping and the size of circulation piping to obtain that rate?
the piping.

A contaminant is a toxic substance that could affect the health and

What is the definition of a contaminant? life of the consumer.

A pollutant is a nontoxic substance that does not represent an

What is the definition of a pollutant? actual health hazard but impairs the water quality with respect to
odor, taste, aesthetics, or other characteristics.

A piping arrangement that has a physical connection of the

probability or possibility of connection between two separate
What is the definition of a cross connection? systems, one of which contains potable water, and the other of
which contains polluted or contaminated fluids, gases, or
substances

Air gap (all hazards) Barometric loop (minor hazards) Atmospheric

Name the six types of mechanical devices that are available for vacuum breaker (minor hazards) Pressure vacuum breaker (minor to
backflow protection. moderate hazard) Double check valve (minor to moderate hazard)
Reduced-pressure backflow device (moderate to severe hazard)

The physical vertical distance must be at least twice the diameter of

the supply pipe but never less than 1”. If the inside edge of the
What are the separation requirements for an air gap fitting? supply pipe is within three diameters of a vertical surface or four
diameters of two adjacent vertical surfaces, the air gap should not
be less than three times the diameter of the supply pipe.

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 Splashing, which is the main reason someone might want to alter
What does good air gap design avoid? the air gap.

In backflow prevention, a barometric loop is a piping arrangement

based on the principle that atmospheric pressure cannot raise a
column of water more than approximately 34 feet even when it is
subject to a perfect vacuum. The piping arrangement is formed by
Describe a Barometric Loop. constructing a loop in the potable water supply line that rises 35
feet or more above the highest point of a nonpotable system This is
effective against back siphonage only and should never be used
where back pressure is available.

The atmospheric vacuum breaker is the most commonly used but

most misunderstood of the available backflow prevention devices. It
is applicable only for intermittent service, where it will be under
pressure for only short periods of time. It uses a disc-float assembly
to seal off the atmospheric vent area when water is flowing. When
flow ceases or the line pressure drops to zero gauge (atmospheric),
Describe an atmospheric vacuum breaker. the float falls, opening the vent to permit air to enter the system
and effectively destroy the possibility of the creation of a siphon. It
is for back siphonage only, not back pressure or back flow. It should
always be installed downstream from the last shutoff valve and a
minimum of 6 inches above the highest point of a nonpotable
system.

A device consisting of one or two positive seating check valves and

an internally spring loaded, disc-float assembly installed as a unit
between two shutoff valves and fitted with properly located test
cocks. The disc-float is spring loaded to allow air to enter the system
Describe a pressure vacuum breaker. when the line pressure drops to 1 psi or lower. These are similar to
atmospheric vacuum breakers except they can be used under
continuous pressure. These are for back siphonage only, and are not
to be used for backflow due to pressure. They should be installed a
minimum of 12 in above the highest point of use.

This consists of two independently acting, internally loaded check

valves. It is effective against backflow caused by either back
pressure or back siphonage. The complete assembly includes two
Describe a double check valve assembly. shutoff valves, a strainer, and test cocks for field testing. There is no
provision for discharging water and there is no visual indication of
backflow or unit malfunction. Not as effective as reduced-pressure
devices so rarely used. For low hazard uses.

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 An assembly consisting of two independently acting, internally
loaded check valves separated by a reduced-pressure zone. A
differential pressure relief valve is located within the reduced
pressure zone to maintain the reduced pressure and to discharge
water to the atmosphere in the event of device malfunction. Typical
Describe a reduced pressure backflow device. use is where the nonpotable water source is considered to be toxic
and capable of causing illness or death. For water systems that have
widely fluctuating water pressures of the RPZ, the RPZ can discharge
quite a large amount of water. A separate check valve installed just
upstream of the RPZ will relieve the situation and return the RPZ to
normal discharge.

1. all backflow prevention devices have a high pressure drop that

the design must compensate. 2. good plumbing design is to add a
Design wise, what three things should one consider when placing a strainer upstream of the backflow device to prevent debris from
backflow prevention device? obstructing the check valves 3. if using a reduced-pressure backflow
device, these have a high relief discharge rate, which must be
accommodated

The stack vent is the pipe from the topmost drainage branch
Define Stack Vent connection through the roof to atmosphere.

How high is a column of air that is equivalent to the static pressure 69.23 feet
exerted by 1 in water column?

What pressure variations must be sustained at the 2” fixture trap for 1” W.C.
100% safety factor?

When air flows in a pipe, a pressure loss occurs due to the friction
between the air and the pipe wall. This loss of pressure is expressed The Darcy Formula
by which formula?

At maximum design flow, water flows down the stack as a sheet of Jul-24
water occupying how much of the cross sectional area of the stack?

As water falls down the stack, it exerts frictional drag on the core of
Why must stacks be extended full size through the roof, and why air and as this air is dragged down, it must be replaced by an
may soil stacks not be reduced in size even though there is less load equivalent quantity of replacement air to avoid violent pressure
on the upper portions of the stack? fluctuations.

This is the area where hydraulic jump occurs. A vent stack is

Why is a vent stack provided in an area of high pressure (as water
provided in this area of high pressure to provide an avenue for the
flows down the stack and enters the horizontal drain)? flow of air to relieve the high pressure.

How are the rates of air discharge for a pressure relief vent stack Through tables.
sized?

it is assumed that the drainage branch flows half-full at design

At design conditions, how full is the drainage branch and what can conditions and that the air in the upper half of the pipe flows at the
be said about the air in the pipe? same velocity and capacity

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What is the maximum length of vent piping for any particular size
with a maximum allowable pressure drop of 1 in w.c.: the The equivalent length.
developed length or the equivalent length? What’s the difference?

The principle of gravity circulation of air is utilized to keep the entire Foul odors, slime and fungi.
sanitary system free of what?

The circulation is induced by the difference in head pressure

between outdoor air and the air in the vent piping. This difference
in head pressure is due to the difference in temperature and thus
How is this circulation induced? the difference in density of each air source and the height of the air
column in the vent piping. The cool air, being more dense, displaces
the less cool air and circulation is induced.

Any connection to the vent stack is a _____? (various methods of

Branch vent.
fixture trap venting)

The stack vent may be connected with the vent stack before
extending through the roof or may be connected together with
Can other things connect into the stack vent? other stack vents or vent stacks in a vent header, and the vent
header may be extended through the roof as a single pipe.

What is any connection from the vent stack called? Branch vent.

The distance from the farthest vented fixture of a group of fixtures

What is the developed length of the vent pipe? to the roof outlet or vent stack or stack vent.

Above the centerline of the horizontal drain pipe. It should raise

Where should the vent be taken off from the horizontal drain pipe? vertically or not more than 45 degrees from the vertical. The
horizontal run of the vent should be at least 6 in above the overflow
level of the fixture.

An individual vent vents one fixture only and is seldom used unless
Define “individual vent.” the fixture is not part of a group.

A vent for two trapped fixtures on the same floor level (connecting
to a common vertical drain), or a horizontal branch drain for two
Define “common vent.” wall outlet fixtures. Keep in mind the maximum distance from the
trap to the vent.

Another form of common venting where one fixture is above the

other. In this case, the pipe between the fixtures carries both waste
Describe “wet venting” or “vertical wet venting” and air. Where this occurs, always look for a larger pipe size in the
code or a special table. The upper fixture cannot be a water closet
or urinal.

This method is used for bathroom groups of fixtures in one or two

bathrooms where the fixture drains are in a row and not one above
Describe “horizontal wet venting” the other. This common vent and waste pipe will be larger, so look
for a special table. In some cases a relief vent will be required.

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 The waste stack in this case acts as the waste stack and vent. No
offsets, water closets or urinals are included, each fixture connects
Describe “waste stack vent” separately, and fixtures must be of the same type. Some codes limit
this arrangement to three floors. This has special sizing tables and
the stack shall be the same size for its entire length.

What is the exception to the “one pipe diameter” slope of the vent
Water closets and other similar fixtures
opening and the trap?

A circuit vent may be used for a maximum of 8 fixtures. All fixtures

must connect horizontally to the horizontal branch drain being
circuit vented, and the connection shall be between the two most
upstream fixture drains. It shall be a dry vent sized for all DFUs of
Describe “circuit vent” the drain. If there are four or more water closets, provide a relief
vent, which shall be the same size as the circuit vent and may be a
wet vent. This drain line of the circuit vent must be full size for the
entire length of run.

This serves a drain line that has horizontal branches, and no food
waste grinders or chemical sinks can be included. This pipe carries
Describe “combination drain and vent”
air and water, and in some codes, the permitted sizes are one size
more than the calculated drain size. (Other codes use a table).

What is another name for “island venting”? Loop venting.

With respect to the horizontal axis, what degree can an offset be Less than 45 degrees. Any offset 45 degrees and greater is
and still be considered horizontal? considered a horizontal offset and sized as such.

How many branch intervals are permitted on a drainage stack for Two, and up to five in some codes.
each attendant vent stack, according to the CPD manual?

To prevent the development of excessive pressures in the lower

What is the purpose of installing a vent stack? regions of the drainage stack by relieving the air as rapidly as it is
carried down the drainage stack.

Below all drainage branch connections and preferable at the top of

Where is the most effective location for the vent stack? What is the horizontal drain immediately adjacent to the stack base fitting.
unique about this location? This is the location where pressure is at it’s maximum and the
danger of closure due to fouling is at its minimum.

The vent stack should extend full size through the roof, connect to a
Where are the three places the vent stack can terminate? vent header, or connect to the stack vent of the drainage stack at
least 6” above the overflow of the highest fixture.

What is the size of the vent stack based on? What is it’s minimum The size is based on drainage fixture unit load and the developed
size? length. It should be not less than one-half of the waste stack size.

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 Within 10 feet of any door, window, or ventilation intake unless they
Vent terminals should not be located near what? Unless what? are extended at least 2ft above such openings.

6 inches, unless the roof is used for other purposes, then it is at

Vent terminals should be how high above the roof level? least 7 feet.

Yes, but the terminal must turn down and be covered with a wire
Can a vent terminal be extended through a wall? How? What screen. It should never be located beneath a building overhang or
should you consider for placement? immediately adjacent to an exterior building wall.

Name the four alternate methods acceptable in lieu of individual Wet venting Stack venting Circuit and Loop Venting Combination
trap venting. waste and vent venting

What is the maximum distance of vent to trap on a 2” plumbing 60 inches, see table for other sizes.
line?

A fixture drain that slopes more than one pipe diameter between
Why must the vent pipe opening never be below the weir of the vent opening and trap weir has a greater tendency to self siphon
fixture trap? the trap seal than a fixture drain installed at a slope of not more
than one pipe diameter.

No drain connection can be within 10 feet of the bottom of the

upper stack and not within 2 ft of the connection of the lower stack.
Name some common rules for venting stack offsets. The venting of the upper stack depends on the number of branch
intervals above the offset.

Balance constantly fluctuating pressures of multi story buildings by

What do relief vents do? means of relief vents located at various intervals.

In drainage stacks in buildings having more than 10 branch intervals

at each tenth interval, counting from the topmost branch
When should a relief vent be provided? downward, or where a drainage stack offsets more than 45 degrees
from the vertical.

The lower end should connect to the drainage stack below the
Where should the relief vent connect? drainage branch connection, and the upper end should connect to
the vent stack at least 3 feet above floor level.

Suds flow down the stack and settle in the lower sections of the
In sanitary drainage systems, where do suds occur? drainage system and at any offset greater than 45 degrees in the
stack.

Air and water travel down the stack, the water passes through the
How do air and water affect suds in a drainage stack? suds without carrying them away, and air displaces the suds
through any available outlet (drains, branches, vents, etc.)

What happens with suds near the hydraulic jump or where relief Excessively high suds pressure can develop, blowing the seals off of
paths are not available? the traps.

Every change in direction, either vertically or horizontally, that is

Where do high suds pressure zones occur? greater than 45 degres.

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Do vent pipe sizing tables generally account for the more
No.
demanding flow of suds?

Are suds more or less dense than air? More dense, 2 to 19 lb/ft^3 depending on the detergent.

For equal rates of flow and pressure, how must vent pipe diameter The vent pipe diameter for suds pressure relief flow must be from
for suds relief flow be sized compared to regular venting? 20 to 80 percent greater than for air flow.

Whenever a soil or waste stack receives wastes from washing

machines, dishwashers, laundry trays, kitchen sinks, etc., the
What design considerations must be taken into account where
drainage and vent piping for the lower floor fixtures or for the
sudsing detergents are used? fixtures above offsets must be arranged to avoid connection to any
zone where suds pressure exists.

1) At a soil or waste stack offset greater than 45 degrees 2) At the

Name four areas where suds pressure zones exist: base of a soil or waste stack 3) At the horizontal drain from the base
of a stack 4) In a vent stack connected to a suds pressure zone

This zone extends 40 stack diameters upward and 10 stack

Where does the suds pressure zone extend to on an offset greater diameters horizontally from the base fitting for the upper stack
than 45 degrees? section. A pressure zone also exists 40 stack diameters upstream
from the top fitting of the lower stack section.

Where does the suds pressure zone extend to at the base of a soil The suds pressure zone extends 40 stack diameters upward from
or waste stack? the base fitting.

The suds pressure zone extends 10 stack diameters from the base
Where does the suds pressure zone extend to at the horizontal fitting, and where an offset greater than 45 degrees in the
drain from the base of a stack? horizontal occurs, the pressure zone extends 40 stack diameters
upstream and 10 diameters downstream from the offset fitting.

The suds pressure zone extends the vent stack base connection
Where does the suds pressure zone extend to in a vent stack upward to the level of the suds pressure zone in the soil or waste
connected to a suds pressure zone? stack.

Sterilizing equipment and bedpan washers, and this is disappearing.

Where are vapor vents now applied? These used to apply to water closets and urinals, but is no longer
necessary.

When a vapor vent is used, it must be isolated from the sanitary

venting system and the stack must extend through the roof. The
base of the vapor vent stack should terminate in a trap to prevent
the escape of vapors and spill to a trapped, vented, and water-
What are some considerations when designing vapor vents? supplied receptacle. An individual vapor vent drip can be connected
through an air gap to the inlet of the trap serving the fixture. The
minimum stack size should be 13 inches, but should be sized by
empirical methods or the rational approach.

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 All the requirements for the proper design of the sanitary system
When designing sump or ejector vents, what requirements are are applicable, thus, the air must be conveyed by the vent piping at
applicable? the same rate as the maximum rate at which sewage enters or is
pumped out of the receiver.

It has been found in practice that except for extremely large

What is usually an adequate size for sump or ejector vents? installations, 3 inches is usually an adequate size, but the vent
should not be less than 1-1/4 inches.

What is the minimum vent size to allow for frost enclosure? 3 inches

Vent terminals should be no smaller than what? The stack served (1-1/2 inches minimum).

A curve where the head rises continuously as the capacity

For a pump, describe a “rising characteristic curve”
decreases, and is also called a rising head/capacity characteristic

A curve where the head developed at shutoff is less than developed

For a pump, describe “drooping characteristic curve” at some other capacity and is also called a drooping head/capacity
characteristic

This is a rising head/capacity characteristic curve where a large

increase in head is developed at shutoff in relation to the head
For a pump, describe “steep characteristic curve” developed at design capacity. This curve is ideal for putting pumps
in parallel.

This is a curve where only a slight variation in head occurs from

shutoff to design capacity. The curve might also be drooping or
For a pump, describe “flat characteristic curve” rising (it will still have a portion where the head is approximately
constant over a range of capacity, called the flat portion). This curve
is NOT desirable for putting pumps in parallel.

A curve that flattens out and decreases as the capacity increases

What does a non-overloading pump BHP curve look like? beyond the maximum efficiency point.

What is the telltale sign of an overloading BHP pump curve? When the BHP curve continues to increase with increased capacity

Why are pumps with non-overloading power curves advantageous? The drive is not overloaded under any operating condition.

1) The capacity for a given point on the pump head/capacity curve

What are the definitions of each of the pump affinity laws? varies with the speed 2) The head varies with the square of the
speed 3) The brake horsepower varies with the cube of the speed

When altering a pump impeller, what percent decrease can be For an average impeller, 20 percent of the original maximum
achieved without adverse effects? diameter.

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What are the definitions of each of the pump affinity laws in terms 1) The capacity varies with the diameter 2) The head varies with the
square of the diameter 3) The brake horsepower varies with the
of IMPELLER DIAMETER? cube of the diameter

In addition to impeller damage, cavitation generally results in

reduced pump capacity (due to presence of vapor in the pump), the
What are some adverse effects of pump cavitation? pump head may also be reduced and exhibit some instability, the
power consumption may become erratic, and vibration and
mechanical damage such as early bearing failure can also occur.

For multiple pump system proper operation, all pumps should have Continuously rising characteristic.
what type of curve?

For series operation, the pump capacities must be equal, but what Pump heads.
may have different values?

For parallel operation, the pump heads must be equal, but what Pump capacities.
may vary?

When selecting a centrifugal pump, in addition to determining the The system head/capacity curve to avoid possible future problems.
required head at the design capacity, it is very important to also The pump must be able of satisfying minimum and maximum
check what? requirements in addition to the design requirements.

The intersection of its head/capacity curve and the system

A centrifugal pump always operates at what condition? head/capacity curve.

1) Static head 2) Required pressure at each piece of equipment or

The head in a typical system is comprised of what three fixture in the critical branch (total) 3) Friction head losses in the
components? (pump chapter) pipe and fittings (these vary with capacity)

On a pump curve, pump head (ft) is proportional to what? The ratio of the GPM squared

Ensure the NPSHa (available, determined by system) is greater than

How does one avoid pump cavitation? the NPSHr (required, a function of the pump).

Absolute. To convert psi (or psig) to feet absolute, add the

When calculating NPSH, use which pressure, absolute or gauge? barometric pressure (14.7 psi at sea level) to the liquid psi to obtain
psia, and then multiply by 2.31 to obtain feet absolute.

The pressure a liquid exert on its surroundings (this varies directly

Define “vapor pressure” with temperature)

What does NPSHr vary with? The speed and capacity of the pump.

When it is not advantageous or efficient to add additional stages to

What is the benefit of operating pumps in series? a single pump, pumps are operated in series to obtain greater
heads.

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What is the benefit of operating pumps in parallel? To obtain greater capacities.

When is a good time to use two or more pumps in parallel? When the system demand varies greatly.

For series operation of two or more pumps, the combined The heads vertically at the same capacities. (100 GPM at 30‘ + 100
performance curve is obtained by adding what? GPM at 30‘ = 100 GPM at 60’)

For parallel operation of two or more pumps, the combined The capacities horizontally at the same heads. (100 GPM at 30‘ +
performance curve is obtained by adding what? 100 GPM at 30‘ = 200 GPM at 30’)

The portion of a drainage system that cannot drain by gravity into

What is a subdrain? the building sewer. (these wastes flow into a receiving tank or sump,
which is pumped into the gravity drainage system)

An ejector handles what? Sewage (ejector basin is airtight and requires venting)

A sump handles what? Clear waste water (sump basin not airtight, needs no venting)

What two types of lifting devices are employed for the automatic 1) Centrifugal pumps 2) Pneumatic ejectors
discharge of sump or ejector basin contents?

When the discharge rate is 100 GPM or less, when large solids must
be handled, where ground conditions are such that the space below
When are pneumatic-type ejectors commonly used? the floor is restricted, where compressed air is readily available, and
in explosion proof conditions.

Use the water supply fixture unit method to determine flow into
What is used to size the ejector pump? the receiver, then total FU is converted to GPM using a table.

In a duplex sewage ejector system, each pump is sized to satisfy

Peak inflow.
what condition?

Add the static head, measured from the low water line in the
How do you determine the head of the ejector pump? receiver up to the highest point pumped, and the friction head loss
in the discharge piping and fittings.

What is the recommended design velocity for flow in an ejector 5 - 10 fps.

system?

From the pump outlet to the highest point, it should be at least the
In an ejector system, how is the length of run measured and what same size as the pump discharge outlet. (after this point, the piping
its the minimum size? is sized as required for the gravity house drain)

What is the minimum run time on an ejector system to avoid 5 minutes of pump capacity between high and low water levels
excessive pump cycling?

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 The high water level should be at least 3 inches below the invert of
the entering piping to prevent backflow and allow air circulation.
In an ejector basin, the high and low water levels should be The low water level should be at least 6 inches above the bottom of
maintained where and why?
the basin to ensure the suction intake of the pump is covered by
water.

What does NFPA 14 address? Standard for the installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems

Ejector basins should not retain the waste discharge for a period 12 hours
exceeding how long?

When an ejector vent is connected to the building venting system, By converting the gpm discharge rate into FU.
how is the addtional load on the vent pipe calculated?

How many fixture units are equivalent to 1 gpm of pump discharge 2 FUs
(in an ejector system)?

Assign a size that is one-half the size of the subdrain discharge pipe
What is a good rule of thumb for ejector vent sizing? into the basin, or a minimum of 3 inches.

What should always be installed at the discharge of each pump A check valve and shutoff valve (the shutoff valve on the discharge
discharge line (sump/ejector basin)? side of the check valve so the check valve can be serviced)

A spring-loaded or weight-loaded check valve, to keep the water

What kind of check valve should be used for pump discharge lines from running back into a discharge basin and short cycling the
from sump/ejector basins and why? pump.

What should always be provided to keep harmful debris away from A settling basin.
the pump in a sump basin?

By assigning a value of 2 gpm for each 100sf area where the soil is
How is the rate of discharge from a subsoil drainage system sandy and 1 gpm per 100sf for clay soils. Don’t forget to add the
calculated? additional flow rate of clear water wastes such as condensate
drains, etc.

For paved and impervious areas collected in a sump, how is runoff A value of 1 gpm for every 24 sf can be assigned for locations where
calculated? the annual rate of rainfall is 4in/hr

1-1/4 times the maximum inflow to protect against unusual flow

conditions, and a duplex sump system (each sized at 1-1/4 the max
inflow) should be used for rainfall collection to protect against
What pump capacity is thought of as “good design” for sump flooding in the event of pump failure during a storm. Also, a source
basins? of emergency power for storm water sump pumps is a good idea
because storms and power failures often occur at the same time.
(you may use a VFD with a sump pump)

What three things make up the “fire triangle”? Oxygen, heat, and fuel.

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 Fire suppression systems put out fires by taking away one or more
How does a fire suppression system work against the “fire triangle”? elements from the fire triangle

What plays a role in determining whether or not fire sprinklers are Building height and use classification.
required?

Design information for automatic sprinkler systems in non-

residential properties is set by who? Are these mandatory NFPA, just recommendations unless referenced in other codes.
provisions?

Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems (13D: one and two
What does NFPA 13 address?
family dwellings) (13R: residences up to and including 4 stories)

What does NFPA 20 address? Standard for the Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection

Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and Their
What does NFPA 24 address? Appurtenances

What are the four authorities that may have jurisdiction regarding 1) State fire marshal 2) Local fire department 3) Building
fire sprinkler design? department 4) Insuring agency

What are the four common types of automatic water-based 1) Wet pipe 2) Dry pipe 3) Deluge 4) Preaction
sprinkler systems?

Area and density approach. Water flow requirements are based on

degree of hazard, the design area is a theoretical worst-case
What approach are most fire sprinkler designs based on? scenario, and the design density is a measurement of how much
water per square foot of floor area should be applied to the design
area.

The adopted building and/or fire code. The purpose of installing a

Where is the need for standpipes outlined and what is their standpipe system is to give fire department personnel a readily
purpose? accessible water supply during fire events. They may either be wet
or dry type.

Provides a 2-1/2” hose connection for fire department and those

What is a Class I Standpipe? trained in heavy fire streams

A system that provides 1-1/2” hose connection to trained building

What is a Class II Standpipe? personnel during an initial response.

A system that provides trained personnel a 1-1/2” hose connection

What is a Class III Standpipe? and a 2-1/2” hose connection for fire department/heavy fire stream
trained personnel.

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 500 gpm for the hydraulically most remote standpipe, 250 gpm per
What are the minimum flow rates for Class I and Class III
additional standpipe, with the total not exceeding 1250 gpm, or
standpipes? 1000 gpm for fully sprinklered buildings

100 psi (not to exceed 175 psi at the top) at the outlet of the
hydraulically most remote 2-1/2” hose connection and 65 psi (not
What are the minimum pressure outlet requirements for to exceed 100 psi at the top) at the outlet of the hydraulically most
hydraulically calculated standpipe systems? remote 1-1/2” hose connection. Ensure these values with a
pressure regulating device or fire pump.

By hydraulic calculations performed by the engineer, by code, or by

How is the overall fire demand established? the insurance rating organization The end result is the amount of
flow required at a calculated pressure.

The municipal or fire protection water supply at the intake and to

To what is the fire pump supply and discharge connected to? the building’s sprinkler system risers at the discharge. (Fire pump
installations are governed by NFPA 20)

When the pressure in the fire sprinkler system drops below a set
What activates a fire pump? threshold which is typically the performance value of the jockey
pump.

With fire pumps, to maintain system pressure during non-operating

Where and why are jockey pumps used? conditions.

2 to 5 percent of the fire pump capacity; it is set to start at about 10

psi above the pressure at which the fire pump is set to start. Under
The jockey pump generally has a capacity of what? fire flow conditions, the jockey pump cannot keep up with the drop
in pressure, triggering the fire pump to energize

1) Vane Type / Pressure Type (the vane type is activated by a flow of

Name two types of flow alarms typically used in automatic sprinkler water which sends an electrical signal to sound an alarm, the
pressure type senses water pressure) 2) Water Motor (activated by
systems: the flow of water which turns a mechanical gong. this is a more
positive method since it requires no electricity to operate)

A: Paper, Cloth, etc. [Triangle A] green B: Flammable liquid

What are the four basic types of fire and their symbols? (gasoline, oil) [Square B] red C: Electrical [Circle C] blue D: Burning
metals [Star D] yellow

What is the heat and water content of natural gas? 1,000 BTU/ft^3 and a low water content

540 BTU/ft^3 and some water content, which may cause corrosion
What is the heat content and water content of manufactured gas? problems

What is the name and heat content of the two types of LPG? Propane: 2,500 BTU/ft^3 and Butane: 3,175 BTU/ft^3

24 of 36
 2 psi. Low pressure gas is less than 2 psi, usually no greater than 0.5
Pressure threshold is deemed “high pressure” for natural and
psi (14 in wc). Gas is distributed throughout the building at 0.5 psi
manufactured gas? and on occasion, 1 psi.

How are propane and butane made available? They come in cylinders at a pressure of 80 to 120 psi.

With regards to natural and manufactured gas and LPG, what is Natural and manufactured gas is lighter than air, LPG is heavier than
their density compared to air? air.

LPG cylinders or appliances should not be located in pits, vaults, or

What special precautions must be used when designing LPG basements unless they are mechanically vented. When they are
systems? located in a room, vents must be provided at floor level. Exterior
locations may require proper separation of cylinders.

Black steel is preferred, brass and copper can be used when the gas
is not corrosive, stainless steel and corrugated stainless steel may
What is the preferred material for gas piping, and when and what also be used. Underground services 6” and larger can be cast iron,
other materials can be used? but it must be steel pipe entering the building. Don’t forget to use
plug or ball valves rated for gas service.

What is a special consideration for burying steel piping? Protect it with a corrosion-resistant material (bitumastic paint, etc.)

Their rules and regulations, the point at which the utility company’s
Before commencing design of the system, the engineer should work ends and the contractors work begins, BTU value and pressure
contact the local utility company to determine what? of gas supplied, any special requirements

It must have a minimum cover of 2 ft or greater, a curb valve should

be installed at the tap off of the main, and a shutoff valve should be
Describe the gas line coming into the building:
installed within 2 ft of the point of entry into the building. The point
of entry into the building should be 10 feet away from any stairway.

What range should the total pressure drop fall within from the gas 0.2 to 0.5 in wc, never exceeding 10 percent of the available gas
meter to the farthest outlet? pressure.

All risers should be valved, and drips should be located at all low
points in the building and at the base of all risers. Connections from
What design considerations are there for gas piping within a the mains should be from the top or side whenever possible, if
building? impossible, a connection can me made from the bottom with either
a drip or a pitch down to the main in the branch piping. Each piece
of equipment should have a shutoff valve.

The entire system should be subjected to an air test for 10 min at a

What is the testing procedure for the gas piping? pressure that is twice the working pressure without showing any
loss of pressure.

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 1) Allowable pressure drop from meter to farthest outlet 2) Demand
(load) in (ft^3/h) 3) Actual length of run (see NFPA 54 National Fuel
What five factors are involved in the sizing of gas systems? Gas Code for gas sizing tables) 4) Specific gravity of gas 5) Diversity
factor (or factor of usage) if allowed by code

1) The longest length method sizes the main from the meter to the
farthest gas user (stay constant along the maximum horizontal
What two methods of gas sizing may be used? length). The same maximum length can be used for branches. 2)
The branch length method sizes the branches (not the main) based
on their individual actual lengths from the meter.

Gases that are used as part of a healthcare procedure other than for
What is the definition of medical gases and can you name the 8 normal body functions. 1) Oxygen, 2) Medical Air 3) Nitrous Oxide
major gases? 4) Carbon dioxide 5) Nitrogen 6) Instrument Air 7) Vacuum and 8)
WAGD

Level 1: Places patients in imminent danger of morbidity or

What are the three levels and their ramifications in terms of mortality Level 2: Places patients at manageable risk for morbidity
potential patient risk if a medical gas system fails? or mortality Level 3: Terminates procedures but would not place
patients at risk of morbidity or mortality

Waste anaesthetic gas disposal system includes oil-les/inert vacuum

producers, and is required at each anesthetizing location. It is violet
What is a WAGD system? colored and gas specific. The minimum flow/Hg is determined by
patient equipment requirements

Name of the gas or vacuum system, room or areas served, a caution

What shall medical gas valve identification include? to not close or open the valve except in an emergency

What is the pressure, delivery rate, pressure drop, and static 50 psig pressure, 100 liters per minute (3.5 standard cfm, or scfm)
pressure for oxygen, nitrous oxide, medical air and carbon dioxide delivery, pressure drop of no more than 5 psi, and a static pressure
outlets? of 50-55 psig

What is the delivery rate, pressure drop, and static pressure for 140 liters per minute (5 standard cfm, or scfm) delivery, pressure
support outlets? drop of no more than 5 psi, and a static pressure of 160-185 psig

What is the delivery required for oxygen and medical air outlets 170 liters per minute (6 standard cfm) for a minimum of three
serving critical areas? seconds

Med/surg vacuum outlets should draw 85 LPM (3 standard cfm)

What are the requirements for medical/surgical vacuum outlets? without reducing the vacuum pressure below 12 in Hg at any
adjacent outlet

Identify the number of outlets for the system, identify the

For gas piping, how is probable peak demand calculated? outlet/room flow rate for each specific gas, determine the
simultaneous use factor/diversity percentage

Hard drawn seamless type K or L copper tube, cleaned and capped

What type of piping material is used for medical air or gases?
for medical services (ASTM B819)

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 Seamless, hard-drawn type K, L or M copper tube or stainless steel
What type of piping material is used for vacuum or WAGD medical
tube. For level 3 vacuum systems, schedule 40 wall pvc plastic may
gas? be used.

Flared or compression type, straight thread connections,

clamp/gasket style couplings, pipe crimping tools, all joints that do
What joints are prohibited in medical gas systems? not provide the mechanical, thermal, and sealing integrity of a
brazed joint.

Every 20 feet, once in each room, at each side of every wall

Where should medical gas piping be labeled? penetration, and at each floor level, and with the appropriate color.

Med gas mains and branches: 1/2” Vacuum mains and branches:
What are minimum medical gas pipe sizes? 3/4” Drops to individual outlets/inlets: 1/2” Piping to alarm panels:
1/4”

Oxygen: 3/4” Medical air: 3/4” Nitrous Oxide: 3/4” Nitrogen: 1”

What are recommended minimum medical gas riser sizes?
Vacuum: 1”

In medical gas piping, how is diversity calculated? From simultaneous use factors given in a table.

How is maximum pressure drop calculated for a medical gas Identify the maximum pressure drop allowed for the specific gas
system? system, divide it by equivalent length, and multiply by 100.

The gravitational force induced by the slope of the drain and the
Flow in piping and open channels is caused by what? height of water in that drain.

What formula determines the velocity of uniform flow in sloping The Manning Formula
drains?

How is the quantity “rate of flow” expressed? Cross sectional area of flow times the average velocity.

The ratio of the cross sectional area of flow to the wetted perimeter
The hydraulic mean depth of flow or hydraulic radius is what ratio of pipe surface, expressed as D/4 where D is diameter in feet. It is
and what value? the same ratio for full and half flow.

What is the conversion for uniform flow velocity and capacity in

sloping pipe going from from 1/4 in/ft slope to 1/8 in/ft? 1/2 in/ft? 0.707 and 1.414

What is the minimum velocity of flow to achieve scouring action in 2 fps, 4 fps, 3 fps. Dont forget to limit the length of runs for 1-1/2
piping? For keeping grease in suspension in greasy wastes? For and 2” pipe to maintain scouring action.
suspension in Storm Sewers?

The designer must know what as related to the sewer, water, and The actual elevation of all of the floors of the building.
gas inverts and locations?

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What is the recommended value of n, the coefficient of roughness,
0.0145
for storm drains of all sizes?

For interior drainage systems, the minimum fixture drain size is The minimum size of the fixture trap (often given in a table)
what?

For interior drainage systems, the rate of flow in a fixture drain The same as the rate of flow discharged at the fixture outlet.
should be what?

Application in conjunction with the probability of simultaneous use

What factors do FUs account for?
of fixtures.

By dividing the total discharge flow in gallons per minute of a single

How can the fixture unit flow rate be calculated? fixture divided by 7.5 gal/ft^3

A minimum of 1.5 times the indirect pipe size above the flood level
For an indirect waste, the discharge outlet should be what? of the receptacle.

Due to the low velocities usually present in indirect wastes,

The sizing for indirect wastes is the same as direct-waste stoppages are more prevalent, and cleanouts should be provided at
connections with what exception? every possible location.

A vent to atmosphere should be provided. It should run

When interior drainage piping developed length reaches 100 feet, independently through the roof, this is to prevent the rapid fouling
what should happen and why? of the pipe due to the growth of slime and fungi in the absence of
air circulation.

High temperature wastes should be cooled to what temperature 140F

before discharging into the drainage system?

Special wastes, tank overflows, tank emptying lines, releif valve Through an air break to an appropriate receptacle (floor drain or
discharges, etc. should discharge where and why? other) to prevent overpressurization of the drainage system.

Properties of uniform flow apply to branches of what length and

5 feet
longer?

What is a general term for any vertical line of soil or waste piping
that collects water and wastes from fixture drains and horizontal A Stack.
branch drains from two or more floors of a building?

A vent stack prevents the development of excessive pressures in the

lower regions of the drainage stack by relieving the air that is rapidly
carried down the drainage stack. It does not include vertical fixture
What is a vent stack? drains and branch vents that do not pass through more than two
stories before being connected to the soil or waste stack or vent
stack.

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 Soil stacks collect wastes that contain fecal matter, and waste stacks
What is the difference between soil stacks and waste stacks? collect wastes that do not contain fecal matter (lavatories, sinks, etc)

With a sanitary tee (a short radius tee-wye, vertical position only) or

How are horizontal branch connections to the stack made? with a long radius tee-wye (vertical or horizontal position). (The tee-
wye is also called a combination wye and one-eighth bend)

The long radius tee-wye fitting gives the water a greater downward
What is one positive and one negative of a tee-wye fitting? component than a sanitary tee, but also has a greater probability of
siphoning the traps

One-thrid full, because the pressure fluctuations in the system

A drainage stack should never be designed for a capacity greater could greatly exceed the maximum 1 in water column criterion and
than what and why? lose their seal by siphonage blowout

What is the total recommended maximum permissible flow in a 7/24 of the total cross sectional area of the stack.
stack?

1) First size the horizontal branches connecting to the stack 2)

Determine the minimum size that will accept each branch at one
branch interval 3) Total all fixture units connected to the stack, and
Describe the procedure for sizing interior drainage stacks. determine the size. The minimum size must be at least equal to the
largest diameter required at the base. You may reduce in size at
upper branch intervals, but never by more than 1/2 the largest size.

A building story or a distance between two branch connections

What is a branch interval? greater than 8 feet apart.

Does an interior drainage stack that offsets 45 degrees or less from No. Any more than a 45 degree offset requires sizing the offset as a
the vertical require a change in size? house drain.

What is the measurement from horizontal that separates horizontal 45 degrees

and vertical drainage stacks?

The lowest piping of a gravity drainage system that receives the

discharge from soil, waste, and other drainage pipes inside the
What is a house (building) drain? building that extends a short distance from the building and
conveys the drainage to the building sewer

House drains are designed to flow how full? 1/2 full to 3/4 full max under uniform flow conditions

3 in pipe and smaller: 1/4 in/ft 4-6 in pipe: 1/8 in/ft 8 in pipe and
What minimum slopes are required for building drains and why? larger: 1/16 in/ft to maintain 2 fps scouring action if low flow
fixtures are present, 1/4 in/ft for all is a good idea

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How many fixture units are equivalent to 1 gpm continuous or 2 FUs, sump pumps, ejectors, air conditioning equipment, water
semicontinuous flow and what are examples of these types of flow? cooled, equipment, etc

At the upper portion of the pipe (above the 1/2 - 2/3 full mark)
because: 1) there is a lower chance of stoppages in the branch 2)
Branch connections to the house drain should be made where and there is less flow interference at the point of connection 3) When
why? there is no flow in the branch, the full area of the pipe is available to
relieve pneumatic pressure fluctuations in the house drain

A backwater valve or a combination BWV with manually operated

What should be installed in the house drain if there is a danger of gate valve. The BWV does not interfere with the airflow throughout
backflow of sewage into the building? Whats the difference? the system, and the gate valve is recommended where there is a
history of backflow as a positive means of protection.

Piping up to 4 inches, the cleanout is the same size as the pipe.

What size cleanouts are provided in piping? Piping greater than 4 inches, 4 inch cleanouts are adequate.

1) Inside or outside the building at the point of exit (use a wye

branch) 2) at every change in direction greater than 45 degrees 3)
every 50 feet for piping 4” and less, and 100 ft for larger piping 4)
Where should cleanouts be provided?
underground piping larger than 10 in should be provided with
manholes at every change in direction and every 150 feet 5) at the
base of all stacks 6) as required by code

What are the slopes of pipe inside the building that correspond to 2 1/4 in per foot for 3 in and smaller 1/8 in per foot for larger pipe all
fps velocity? elbows, taps, tees etc are tapped at a pitch of 1/4” per foot

A sanitary tee may be used in the vertical but what may not be used A double sanitary tee because the possibility of flow crossover and
excessive pressures when one branch is discharging and the other
in the vertical and why? isn’t are possible

The maximum length from the vent connection to any future drain To prevent a dead end where slime, sludge and fungi can grow, 2
outlet is required by code, why, how long is the distance (listed in feet, unless the piping must be extended to an accessible location
the book), and what’s the exception? for a cleanout

It is achieved at approximately 10 - 15 fps and this velocity is

When does terminal velocity occur in a drainage stack? achieved within 10 - 15 feet of fall from the point of entry.

Any offset of the stack greater than what can cause hydraulic jump? 45 degrees

Increasing the slope of the horizontal drain. Connecting to a

What can minimize hydraulic jump? horizontal drain that is larger than the stack.

Not to the horizontal offset to the stack if at all possible, unless its
Where should and shouldn’t you connect branch connections to at least 10 pipe diameters downstream, and ideally 2 feet above the
stack offsets? offset or 2 feet below to avoid pressure fluctuations.

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 A water test upon completion of the rough piping and prior to
concealment of 10 ft wc minimum (except the topmost 10 feet of
pipe), not to exceed 100 ft wc. If system is higher than 100 feet, test
What are the testing procedures for the storm and sanitary system? plugs must be installed to facilitate testing, rarely are more than 7
stories tested at one time. A peppermint oil test may also be done
with 2 oz of peppermint oil and 10 qt boiling water, and searching
for peppermint smell at leaks, however it is difficult to pinpoint the
leak by this method

Yes, if a water test is not possible, at a pressure of 5 psi, are tests are
Is an air test acceptable for a storm and sanitary system? impractical and costly

What happens in a storm and sanitary system after it passes the A smoke pressure test is recommended with a smoke pressure of 1
water test? in wc to prove the system gas tight.

What is the specific weight of water? 62.4 lbs per cubic foot

What two factors go into determining the rate of discharge of storm Size of the area draining, and maximum rate of rainfall per hour.
water?
If maximum rainfall rate is 4 in.hr., how much surface area will result 24 sq ft.
in 1 gpm of collection?

What velocity is required for storm water to achieve scouring? 3 fps

Describe the process to convert sanitary fixture unit loads to <256 FU, use 1000 sq. ft. >256, multiply FU by 3.9 sq. ft. For
equivalent square feet of drained area. continuous or intermittent flow multiply gpm by 24 sq. ft.

For site drainage, what storm frequency should be used for an 10 years
average site?
The time it takes for rainfall to accumulate and flow over the ground
For site drainage, describe concentration time for an inlet. to the inlet.

What is a safe assumption for a storm sewer inlet time? 5 or 10 minutes

What is the most satisfactory pipe material for storm sewers? Reinforced concrete

Name the two types of flow that occurs with water in a pipe. Laminar and turbulent

The critical velocity, unique to different pipe sizes, at which laminar

What does the Reynolds number represent?
flow turns turbulent

What is the approximate Reynolds number range? 2,000 to 4,000

What approximate Reynolds number is used for plumbing design? 2,100

Very rarely, a velocity of less than what is employed in domestic 4 fps

water piping design?

What is the equivalent pressure of 1 ft wc of 50 degree water? .433 psi

Conversely, what is the height of a column of 50 degree water that 2.31 ft

will impose a pressure of 1 psi?

Another term for static head is what? Potential energy

Kinetic energy in a domestic water system can also be referred to as velocity head
what?
Very rarely is the design velocity for water flow in plumbing systems 8 fps
greater than _____.

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The sudden and rapid change in velocity of water, such as with a Hydraulic shock
quick closing valve, leads to what?

What type of check valve should be used on the discharge side of a Spring-loaded check valve
pump?
Fluids flowing around a short radius bend at a high velocity can Cavitation.
cause what?
How can most noise problems be avoided in a domestic water Maintain a velocity lower than 8 fps.
system?
What are the two methods used in the US for determining peak The empirical method and the method of probability.
demand of fixtures?
The practice of assigning fixture units to fixtures is based upon what
The method of probability.
method?
What is the maximum allowable pneumatic pressure fluctuation in 1" wc
a vent pipe?

Developed length is the length of the system measure along the

In a plumbing system, describe developed length vs. equivalent center line. Equivalent length accounts for higher pressure drops or
length. friction head loss at fittings.

In a multistory building with two or more branch intervals, where Below all drainage connections and preferrably at the top of the
should the vent stack connect to the drainage stack? horizontal drain immediately adjacent to the stack base fitting

The size of a vent stack should never be ______________ of the Less than 1/2
waste stack size.

Size the horizontal branches connected to the stack by totaling the

fixtures on each branch and using Table 2-5. Determine minimum
What's the 4 step procedure for sizing a stack? size stack at each branch interval. Total all fixtures on stack and size
stack from Table 2-4. Check to make sure that stack at upper branch
intervals is not less than 1/2 the largest stack size.

Inside or outside the building at the point of exit, every change of

direction greater than 45 degrees, and at a maximum of 50 ft. (100
Where should clean outs be provided? ft. for piping larger than 4 inches), at the base of all stacks, and
where required by code.

Where should indirect waste drain to in relation to the receptacle 1.5 times the indirect pipe size above the flood level of the
that it's draining into? receptacle

Indirect waste is usually limited to…. sinks, lavatories, condensate drains, etc.

Do fixtures using discharging to indirect waste require traps? Vents? Yes traps, no vent unless indirect piping is over 100 ft.

Why should clean outs be provided often in indirect waste systems? Lower velocities result in more stoppages.

Hi temperature waste must be cooled to what temperature before 140 degrees f

draining to the drainage system?

Pipe size, flow, and ratio (most authorities use 1/4 or 7/24) of cross-
What is stack capacity based on? sectional area of sheet of water to cross-sectional area of stack

What is hydraulic jump? The phenomenon of sudden rise in water at the base of a stack.

If a connection to a horizontal stack offset must be made, how far At least 10 pipe diameters downstream to avoid the hydraulic jump.
down the horizontal run should it be made?

The distance of a stack between two branch connections greater

What is a branch interval? than 8 feet apart.

What is the Manning Formula used for? To determine velocity of uniform flow in sloping drains.

What is the coefficient of roughness (n) for a plumbing sanitary 0.014: 1-1/2":n=.012, 2-3":n=0.013, 4":n=0.014, 5-6":n=0.015, 8
drain with pipe size 4" diameter? and larger: n=0.016 (use 0.0145 for storm)

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What is the minimum velocity of flow required to achieve scouring 2, 4, and 3 fps, respectivly
in a drain line? Greasy waste? Storm drain?

Rate of flow in fixture drains is dependent on what two conditions? Minimum diameter of waste outlet and height of water above that
minimum diameter.

How is fixture unit flow rate calculated? Total discharge flow of fixture (gpm) divided by 7.5 gal/cu. ft.

At approximately 10-15 fps, thus approximately 10-15 feet of fall

When is terminal velocity achieved in a drian pipe? from the point of entry.
Usually, normal pressure available from the public main is less than 80
_____ psi.

How is uniform friction head loss calculated? total friction head loss divided by equivalent length of run x 100

What is the rule of thumb method to determine equivalent length? 1.5 x developed length

If the utility were to quote 50 psi available, what number should the 40 psi
designer use for pressure available?

What are the basic methods to increase water pressure to an Gravity tank, hydropneumatic tank, booster pump.
adequate level?

What type of valve was added to water heater piping to protect the A temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve.
water heater against bursting or exploding?

What is the standard design working pressure for water heaters and 125 psi
storage tanks?
The pressure setting of a T&P valve must always be less than The maximum working pressure of the material in the system.
_____?

What minimum velocity should be maintained through the tubes of 4 fps

an instantaneous water heater to minimize scale build-up?

What percentage of stored water in a storage water heater is 70%

"usable"?
Hot water velocities should be limited to _____ fps to avoid eroding 6 fps
the pipe material.

Heat loss rate of the piping, temperature differential at which the

What are the 3 factors that govern the design of hot water system is to operate, and the allowable friction head loss in the
circulating systems? piping.

Do you consider heat loss of the return line when sizing a recirc No
pump?
Do you consider height of piping above the pump when sizing a No
recirc pump?
The unit increase in length of a material per 1 degree F increase in
Define coefficient of expansion. temperature.

Does turning motion occur at that elbows of an expansion loop? No

What is the only thing that limits the amount of expansion that can Developed length of pipe available for expansion.
be accommodated in an expansion loop?

Good engineering practice limits the total movement to be 1-1/2 inches

absorbed by any expansion loop of offset to a maximum of _____.

A portion of a drainage system than cannot drain by gravity into the

What is a subdrain? building sewer.
When is subdrain discharge need to go through a If the subdrain receives wastes containing oil, gasoline, or other
separator/interceptor? flammable liquids.

A sump pump handles storm water and other clear water discharge
What is the difference between a sump pump and an ejector? and a sewage ejector handles sewage.

Is a vent required on a sump basin or ejector basin? An ejector basin yes, a sump basin no.

What is the recommended design velocity to use while selecting an 5-10 fps
ejector pump?

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When sizing an ejector basin, what minimum time should be 5 minutes
planned between high and low water levels?

What valves should be installed at the discharge of each ejector A check valve and shut-off valve.
pump?

What are the four types of automatic sprinkler systems? Wet pipe, dry pipe, deluge, and preaction.

What are the two types of flow alarms used in automatic sprinkler Vane type or pressure type and Water motor.
systems?
What classifies a type C fire? electrical

High pressure gas is usually at a pressure higher than ____. 2 psi

Low pressure gas is usually at around _____. 0.5 psi

1 gallon of water weighs ______ lbs 8.33
1 cu. ft. of water = ______ gallons 7.48
1 foot = ______ PSI static head 0.434

which of the following is true when installing a pressure regulator?

a. If located indoors, a relief vent may be required. b. It is provided
to reduce the pressure of the incoming service to a safe operating d) all the above are true
pressure at the appliance. c. It normally is located outside before
the meter. d. All of the above are true.

nG systems should be designed with an allowable pressure drop of

______. a. 0.2–0.5 inch w.c. b. 5.0 inches w.c. c. 10 psi d. none of a) 0.2-0.5 inches w.c.
the above

which of the following is an acceptable material for fuel gas piping?

a. black steel b. type L copper c. corrugated stainless steel tubing d. d) all of the above
all of the above

which of the following is required to size an NG system? a.

allowable friction loss b. pipe layout c. probable demand d. all of d) all of the above
the above

which standard is referenced for fuel gas systems? a. nFPA 99 b. c) NFPA 54

nFPA 101 c. nFPA 54 d. nFPA 13

Large LPG tanks must be located ______. a. away from the building
in case of leaks b. near the appliances being served c. inside the a. away from the building in case of leaks
building in a fire-rated enclosure d. underground

1 kW = ______ BTUh 3413

What are the four categories that plumbing construction costs are Material, preparation, fixtures, appurtenances
broken down to?

Cost estimating is broken down to what two basic categories? Material costs and labor costs

What is the Manning Formula used to calculate? Determining the velocity of uniform flow in sloping drains.

What units are used in the Manning Formula? ft

What does R represent in the Manning Formula? Hydraulic radius = Area of flow/wetted perimeter = d/4

What pH level is neutral, acidic, and alkaline? 7 is neutral, lower is acidic, higher is alkaline (or basic)

What is the minimum velocity to design to for drains? 2 FPS

The maximum allowable operating pressure for nG piping inside a

building is ______. a. 0.5 psig b. determined by the authority having b) determined by the authority having jurisdiction
jurisdiction c. 5.0 psig d. no limit

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which of the following is true for a fuel gas system? a. The flow rate
of an appliance is equal to the consumption divided by 1,000. b. a. The flow rate of an appliance is equal to the consumption divided
natural gas is stored on site in large tanks. c. Gas systems always by 1,000.
should be vented. d. Gas that is vented through regulators can
always discharge into occupied space.

LPG ______. a. needs to be alarmed when installed in crawl spaces

b. is heavier than air c. vents shall be terminated a minimum of 3 b) is heavier than air
feet horizontally from an opening d. slope on grade at the site

The purpose of a gas booster is ______. a. to increase the

volumetric supply b. to increase the pressure c. to maintain the b. to increase the pressure
pressure delivered by the supplier d. none of the above

In the table giving uniform flow velocity of drains at 1/4" slope, 0.707
multiply values by _____ to solve for a drain at 1/8".

What does ASTM stand for and what plumbing components do they Originally the American Society for Testing and Materials, piping
set standards for? and fittings.

What does ASME stand for and what plumbing components do they American Society of Mechanical Engineers, fixtures, drains, clean
set standards for? outs, some tubing, stainless steel piping.

What does ASSE stand for and what plumbing components do they American Society of Sanitary Engineers, Performance requirements
for backflow preventers, vacuum breakers, thermostatic mixing
set standards for? valves, pressure reducing valves, and some residential components.

What does AWWA stand for and what plumbing components do American Water Works Association, ductile iron pipe, double
they set standards for? detector check valves, disinfection of water mains and tanks.

What does ANSI stand for and what plumbing components do they American National Standards Institute, gas water heaters and
appliances, manually operated gas valves, corrugated steel gas
set standards for? piping, plastic plumbing fixtures, and toilet seats.

1 acre = _____ sq. ft. 43,560

1 US gallon = _____ cu. in. 231
1 grain/gallon = _____ parts per million 17.1
A dimensionless numerical factor relating fluid velocity to
What is the Reynolds number? turbulence in a pipe.
What is the range for turbulent flow? Re over 4000
What is the range for critical flow? Re between 2000 and 4000
What is the range for laminar flow? Re less than 2000
Critical flow is also referred to as ______? Transitional flow
1 ft. of water = ____ psi 0.433
1 psi = _____ ft. of water 2.31

Static pressure occurs when there is no flow, residual pressure (or

What is static pressure vs. residual pressure? flowing pressure) occurs when water is flowing.

When sizing a house drain, how many drainage fixture units should 150 DFU (2 per every 1 gpm for sump pumps, ejectors, AC
be applied for a sump pump with a discharge rate of 75 rpm? equipment, etc.)

What is the density of air measured in? lbs/cu. ft.

What is the density of air at sea level and a temperature of 68.4 0.075 lb/cu. ft.
degrees F?

At maximum design flow, water flows down a drainage stack as a

sheet of water occupying what fraction of the cross-sectional area Jul-24
of the stack?

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What is the Darcy Weisbach equation used to determine? Pressure loss

The Hazen-Williams equation is most often used for what plumbing Fire Protection
discipline?

What color stripe is used on a Type 'K' copper pipe? Green

What color stripe is used on a Type 'L' copper pipe? Blue

What color stripe is used on a Type 'M' copper pipe? Red

What color stripe is used on a Type 'DWV' copper pipe? Yellow

How do you calculate head in a pumping system if PSI is known? PSI x Specific Gravity (usually 1.0) x 2.31

Regarding pump selection, what does NPSH stand for? Net Positive Suction Head

Net Positive Suction Head required, determined by the pump

What is NPSHr? manufacturer.

What is NPSHa? Net Positive Suction Head available, determined by the system.

Energy can no longer be transferred from the pump to the fluid due
Regarding pump selection, describe dead head. to no flow at maximum head, so it is transferred to heat and will
burn out a pump.

What is the rule of thumb for minimum flow of a pump? 25% of impeller size best efficiency point.

Series = Add Head; Parallel = Add Flow. With pumps in series, each
pump is sized for 1/2 the head but the same flow. With pumps in
What is the significance of SHPF (Sheep Have Pretty Farmers) parallel, the head is the same for each pump but the flow is
increased.

2, 2, 4, 8: Speed is proportional to flow; multiply ft. of head by the

What is the rule of thumb for the affinity laws of pump selection? square of the increase in speed or flow: multiply HP by the cube of
the increase of speed or flow.

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