scope:

This guideline applies to drinking-water installations in which certain events may cause sudden pressure increases within the system, which in turn may give rise to annoying noise generation and damage. The guideline describes the processes in water-carrying pipe systems and the connected pumps, valves and appliances capable of generating pressure surges during their operation.

This guideline offers building owners, commercial enterprises, building services engineers, structural engineers and users guidance on how to avoid inadmissible pressure surges and thus annoying noise and damage.

It is addressed to any person involved, either directly or indirectly, in the design, construction and maintenance of building services.

The guideline deals with the causes of pressure surges including the associated annoyance by noise and the damage caused; it provides guidance on design, building construction and the operation of water- carrying pipes and the connected pumps, shut-off and tap valves as well as measures serving to reduce or avoid pressure surges.

Guidance is also given regarding potential damage to the installations, caused by pressure surges, and the avoidance of inadmissible noise.

This guideline does not deal with problems with pressure surges in pressure booster installations, fire-extinguishing installations and installations designed for use with non-drinking water (rain water, process water, see VDI 2070) or for waste-water disposal.