Airsize software
Intelligent air valve sizing software by AVK. Redefining the science of air valve selection
In water transmission and distribution pipelines, air valves play a critical role in system safety, efficiency, and long‑term reliability. Yet, even today, air valve size selection is commonly based only on pipe diameter – a practice that is scientifically inaccurate and operationally risky.
At AVK, we believe air valve sizing must be engineering‑driven, data‑based, and system‑specific. To address this industry gap, we proudly introduce AIRSIZE – AVK’s advanced air valve sizing software, designed to deliver all critical sizing and selection decisions in one intelligent platform.
Air valves fulfil a crucial role in protecting and maintaining optimal performance of pipelines transporting pressurised fluids. Each main air valve type (automatic, kinetic, or combination air valves) has its own set of functionalities and advantages; thus, it is essential to consider the unique features associated with each type when sizing them. Selecting an incorrect model or size can completely deprive the purpose of the air valve and overall safety and performance of the pipeline.
The current market scenario – a critical gap
Most air valve selections in the market today are based on a simplified rule of thumb:
“Larger pipe = larger air valve”
While convenient, this approach ignores the actual hydraulic behaviour of the pipeline and can lead to:
- Insufficient air release during filling
- Inadequate air intake during draining
- High surge pressures and water hammer
- Sub‑atmospheric pressures causing pipe collapse
- Premature system failures and increased maintenance costs
Pipe diameter alone does not define air system requirements.
AIRSIZE® air valve sizing tool
Air valves should always be sized considering:
- The volume of the fluids transported in the pipeline
- The pipelines’ geographical high and low points
- Securing that the pipeline can be vented during pressurised stage
- Securing that the pipeline can be vented in the event of both intentional and non-intentional filling and emptying
In conclusion, focusing on solely the size of the pipeline would be insufficient. To answer to this need AVK has developed AIRSIZE, a specialised air valve sizing software designed to aid engineers in the water, wastewater, and industrial sectors with selecting, sizing, and optimising air valves for pipeline systems.
Benefits of using AVK’s AIRSIZE® air valve sizing software
1. Optimised design:
After pre-selecting the air valve type, the software confirms that the correct air valve size is selected and recommends installation positions to optimise the performance and efficiency of the pipeline system.
2. Safety:
Proper valve sizing prevents issues such as vacuum formation, pipeline damage, and inefficient operation.
3. Time and cost saving:
By automating the sizing process, the software reduces the time spent on calculations and minimises the risk of errors, thus saving both time and resources during the design phase.
4. Improved reliability and performance:
Correct valve sizing helps to maintain the integrity of the pipeline system, avoiding costly repairs, downtime, or equipment failure due to improper air valve selection.
5. Customisation and flexibility:
The software accommodates a variety of pipeline materials and allows for setting of customised safety settings thus complying to individual customer preferences.
6. Documentation:
The software ensures that all design decisions are well-documented, providing a report than can be used as project documentation.
AIRSIZE® key features
1. AVK support:
Aided by the AIRSIZE sizing software, AVK provides sizing calculation services to customers for their project needs. Additionally, if customers wish to use the software independently, AVK offers access along with training to ensure a correct use of the AIRSIZE software.
2. Automatic sizing calculations:
AIRSIZE automatically calculates the required air valve sizes based on input parameters such as pipeline diameter, flow rate, operating pressure, pipeline length, and elevation changes. These calculations are performed using recognised hydraulic formulas, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
3. Valve type selection:
AVK offers different types of air valves, such as:
- Automatic air valves
- Combination valves
- Rapid filling preventer / anti-surge air valves
- Vented non-return / anti-slam air valves
- Outlet only air valves
AIRSIZE helps users select the correct valve type based on the system’s needs, whether it’s preventing vacuum conditions or ensuring the efficient release of air.
4. Flow conditions and pressure profile analysis:
AIRSIZE allows users to perform detailed flow and pressure profile analyses, considering different conditions like transient pressure surges, to evaluate when and how air valves will operate in response to pressure changes in the pipeline.
5. Detailed reports and documentation:
AIRSIZE generates detailed reports documenting the valve sizing calculations, assumptions made, and selected valve specifications. This is helpful for design validation, regulatory approvals, and project documentation.
6. Support for multiple valve sizes:
AIRSIZE can handle a range of valve sizes, allowing users to select the best size for their specific pipeline system needs. This flexibility is crucial when designing systems of varying scales, from small municipal systems to large industrial installations.
7. Customised design:
AIRSIZE enables customisation of the design based on specific project requirements. Users can adjust parameters such as flow rates, pressure conditions, and the presence of critical points (e.g., high points or low points in the pipeline) to ensure the air valve is correctly sized for optimal performance.