Do “Bladder” type of surge vessels offer reliable, cost effective method of protecting pumping mains from the risks of surge?

No!

Over the past few years we have been instructed to replace many bladder vessels as clients begin to realize the costly maintenance schedules required to operate them correctly, as well as the poor performance offered when regular maintenance slips.

Failing to maintain the correct initial air volume (IAV) in ANY type of surge vessel, leads directly to increased risks of damage to the pumping main from uncontrolled surge pressures.

Confirming the correct IAV in a bladder vessel requires vessel isolation, potential supply disruptions, considerable labour resource and a clean, dry compressed air supply