Sealed building drainage and vent systems-an application of active air pressure transient control and suppression

The introduction of sealed building drainage and vent systems is considered a viable proposition for complex buildings due to the use of active pressure transient control and suppression in the form of air admittance valves and positive air pressure attenuators coupled with the interconnection of the network's vertical stacks. This paper presents a simulation based on a four-stack network that illustrates flow mechanisms within the pipework following both appliance discharge generated, and sewer imposed, transients. This simulation identifies the role of the active air pressure control devices in maintaining system pressures at levels that do not deplete trap seals. Further simulation exercises would be necessary to provide proof of concept, and it would be advantageous to parallel these with laboratory, and possibly site, trials for validation purposes. Despite this caution the initial results are highly encouraging and are sufficient to confirm the potential to provide definite benefits in terms of enhanced system security as well as increased reliability and reduced installation and material costs. © 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.