SHRI DATTA MEGHE COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE

SOLUTION SET - BUILDING SERVICES-II

CLASS----2ND YEAR
SESSION – 2017-18

Que :-What are the various ways and systems of supplying water to consumers? Why is
knowledge of the above important to the architect?

In a city for supplying water to different buildings a public water supply scheme is
planned and provided so as to distribute pure or treated water to various consumers. The
purpose of distribution system is to deliver water to consumer with appropriate quality, quantity
and pressure. Distribution system is used to describe collectively the facilities used to supply
water from its source to the point of usage. Based on the water depend on the city and to ensure
proper distribution of the water a network of water pipe line referred a “supply mains” is laid in
localities/ colonies/ neighbourhood of the city. These “supply mains” are made of C.I. or M.S.
and are laid on one side of the roads or streets 1/3rd of the road at a depth of 0.75 to 0.90 meters
below the surface, to avoid the damage due to traffic.

Requirements of Good Distribution System:

 Water quality should not get deteriorated in the distribution pipes.

 It should be capable of supplying water at all the intended places with sufficient pressure
head.
 All the distribution pipes should be preferably laid one meter away or above the sewer
lines.
 It should be fairly water-tight as to keep losses due to leakage to the minimum.

Water Supply Systems:

The water supply to different buildings is of two types

1. Continuous water supply system

2. Intermittent water supply system.

Based on total water depend and the available water from different sources and capacity of
treatment plants the type of water supply system is decided.
Continuous water supply system:

In continuous water supply system the supply mains are charged with water for 24 hours
continuously and consumers get water supply for all 24 hours continuously and consumers get
water supply for all 24 hours.

Advantages of Continuous Water Supply System:

Water is available all the time and no storage or the storage tanks are required.

Chances of contamination of water in pipe lines are less; as the supply mains are always charged
with water.

In case of fire, water is readily available at considerable pressure.

Since the supply mains are continuously under water pressure there are no chances of wear and
tear of pipe lines due to abrasion.

Disadvantages of Continuous Water Supply System:

More investment is required for maintenance and upkeep of this system and hence consumer has
to pay more water tax.

In case of a leakage, a large quantity of water is wasted.

Repairs and house connections are more difficult.

Intermittent Water Supply System:

In this system the supply mains are charged with water during specific hours of the day; and are
without water during the remaining period. The water is normally charged during the peak
demand hours usually two times in a day. These hours normally are 5.00 to 9.00 a.m. and 4.00 to
9.00 p.m.

Advantages of Intermittent Water Supply System:

 This system automatically restricts the total water consumption and is therefore very
commonly practiced where there is shortage of water.
  Requires less cost for maintains and hence less water tax for consumers.
 Repairs maintenance and new connections are easily carried out in non-supply hours.
 In case of leakages, less quantity of water is wasted.

Disadvantages of Intermittent Water Supply System:

Storage of required quantity of water becomes necessary during non-supply hours, therefore it
becomes absolutely essential to provide underground and over head water storage tank. This is
additional expenditure and burden for consumer. Beside this the overall quality of water gets
affected due to storage.

During non-supply hours, underground impurities can get through leaking joints etc. and danger
of contamination of water is greater.

In case of fire, during non-supply hours, water is not readily available for fire fighting and this
can lead to greater loss in such emergencies.

Maintenance of overhead or underground tank is a constant problem and is more expensive.

Comparison: Continuous & Intermittent system of water

Continuous supply
Parameters Intermittent system
system
Fire demand Fire demand can be met within Fire demand cannot be met within
time. time; this may cause huge damage
before the supply could be turned on.
Domestic storage Storage is not necessary, since The consumers have to store water
there is a continuous supply of for non supply hours which is likely
water 24X7. to get contaminated. Some
consumers may not have sufficient
storage tanks which may lead to
insanitary condition.
Size of pipes Comparatively lesser diameter Bigger diameter pipes are required to
pipes are used in continuous supply the water for the full day in a
 system of water supply. very short period.
Staff requirement Need not require much More manpower and infrastructures
manpower & infrastructure. needed
Capital cost Low capital cost compared to Higher capital cost
intermittent system of water
supply.

In comparison of Intermittent system of water, Continuous water supply system is the ideal
system. But due to limited monetary resources during summer time majority resources and
limited water sources especially the depletion of the capacity of water sources during
summer time majority of the cities in our country have no option but to adopt Intermittent
water supply system.

Everyone is well aware of the importance of water and life is just not possible without water.
Water is required for drinking, cooking, bathing, washing, gardening and for vegetation and for
all forms of life. In every city, village, and in every house everyone desires to have sufficient and
uninterrupted supply of water.

To ensure this the concerned authorities try their best but this always falls short of the actual or
desirable level of demand, and is a matter of great concern to all of us. Therefore, the knowledge
of the Water supply system is very important to the architect, because a basic requirement for
good management and establishment of effective Water supply is a sound knowledge of the
physical characteristics of water systems. However, this is often lacking for building systems.
Many buildings do not have accurate well maintained maps of water systems. Architect should
know all the requirements of users and sound knowledge of water supply and its distribution
systems, according to that he will decide the systems which will be applicable for the building so
that proper water should supply to consumer. And also because of knowledge of perfect water
supply system, wastage of water will be reduced and also less maintenance will be required.
Que:- What are the qualities of portable water? How is water demand calculated for the
construction of an overhead water tank for building having twenty flats.

Potable water is water that has been either treated, cleaned or filtered and meets established
drinking water standards or is assumed to be reasonably free of harmful bacteria and
contaminants, and considered safe to drink or use in cooking and baking. Examples of potable
water would be that from treated municipal water systems, water that has been UV filtered, water
distilled, or purified by reverse osmosis.

Qualities of portable water

Contaminant free - The water is filtered of unhealthy toxins, including synthetic chemicals, toxic
metals, bacteria and viruses, radioactive substances, and other treatment additives such as
chlorine and fluoride.

Mineral rich - The natural occurring minerals in the source water are not removed through
purification processes, such as reverse osmosis and distillation.

Alkaline pH - The drinking water has an alkaline pH between 7.0 and 9.5, which means that the
water contains a healthy level of alkaline minerals such as calcium and magnesium.

Micro-clustered - Water that is electrolyzed or "reduced" will have smaller groupings of water
molecules. Drinking reduced water can improve cellular hydration and cellwater turnover (i.e.,
nutrients into the cells and toxins out)

Anti-oxidant - Water that is ionized has a negative oxidation reduction potential and thus acts to
neutralize free radicals in the body and slows the oxidation (i.e., aging) process in the body.

Good taste.- If it doesn't taste good, you will simply won't drink enough water to stay hydrated
enough to optimize the health benefits.

Capacity of Over Head Water Storage Tank

The capacity of Water Storage Tank depends upon the number of and type of water outlets
provided in the building that is to say for example the number of bathrooms, W.C.s, Wash
basins, Urinals, Sinks, Wash area etc. the approximate quantity of water required for different
usage is given below

Bathing – 45 to 65 liters/ head/ day

W.C.(including flushing)- 27 to 35 liters/ head/ day

Kitchen, Cooking and Wash- 9 to 14 liters/ head/ day

Miscellaneous - 9 to 18 liters/ head/ day

Drinking – 2 to 3 liters/ head/ day

Total – About 92 to 135 liters/ head/ day

Calculation for an overhead water tank for having 20 flats

Let us assume the average family size = 4 persons in the house

Water required for daily chores per person per day as per NBC norms;

135 x 4 = 540 liters water is required for one flat

According to that for 20 flats water required is

=540 X 20 = 10,800 liters

10,800 liter water is required for 20 flats.

Volume of water = 10800/1000 = 10.8cubic meters

Dimensions for the overhead water tank:

Length = 1.2m

Breadth = 0.6m

Depth = 1.1m

Total Volume = 2.5×2.2×2 = 11.00 cubic meters

Que:- Write shorts notes :

1. Water Heaters

Water Heaters –

Water Heaters (Geysers) are of two types

Instant Water Heaters (Geysers): Instant water heater has a small size. It has narrow
cylindrical shape. The outer cover or container is made of C.P. (chromium plated) Brass or of
P.V.C. Inside this body is provided electric heating coils (similar to what one sees in water
immersion heater). This Geyser is provided with a cold water inlet at the bottom. The cold water
thus enters through the bottom and is heated when it comes in contact with the hot electrical coils
which are inside. The heated water naturally rises and is taken out from the outlet provided at the
top of the body of the Geyser. The outlet has a spout like shape hence hot water falls downward
from the Geyser which need to be collected in a bucket or any other similar container. Since the
heater has no storage capacity one has to ensure a continuous water flow through the Geyser
especially when in use. The inlet of cold water to the Geyser is controlled by providing a stop
valve on the cold water supply pipe. The hot water from this Geyser can be collected only in a
bucket or similar vessel but cannot be connected through a pipeline to supply hot water to wash
basin, washing tap' or to shower. This is a major shortcoming of this kind of water heater; hence
this is invariably located and provided in bathing spaces.

Instant Water Heater

Storage Type Water Heaters:

The shape of this type of Geyser is long wide cylindrical resembling a Drum and is bigger in size
than Instant type Geyser. This type of Geyser is available in different storage capacities ranging
from 15 ltrs. to 90 ltrs.

The outer part of the Geyser is normally made out of thick M. Steel and is thoroughly and
properly painted in different colours. Inner layer (placed next to M.S. sheet) is made out of thick
copper sheet between these two metal sheets is firmly placed a thick layer of good insulating
material (mostly glass wool or thermocol). Within the space of the inner cover of copper are
located electrical heating coils. The surface area of these heating coils depends upon the quantity
of water to be heated and stored. This Geyser is provided with a Thermostat control which
automatically cuts off the electrical supply when water is heated to predetermined /
preprogrammed temperature and similarly automatically puts on the electric supply when the
temperature of water inside the Geyser drops (becomes cold) to a pre programmed level.

These Geysers are also provided with pilot lights which indicates/shows whether the Geyser is in
On mode or Off mode. These Geysers are available in two variants one which is aligned and
fixed vertically and the other horizontally. In horizontal type the inlet of cold water is at lower
portion (on circular flat of the portion) of the cylinder and hot water outlet is at top but in vertical
type both inlet and outlets are located at bottom and side by side the convention is to position the
inlet on right part and outlet on left position.

The cold water inlet pipe is usually branched from Bath's distribution pipeline and the Geyser is
connected to this pipe line through a Stop cock or Angle cock with a flexible connecting piece
either made of P.V. C. or C.P. Copper pipe.

The hot water out-let point of Geyser is also similarly connected, that is with flexible connecting
pipe piece to hot water distribution pipeline mostly of G.I. or C.P. V. C. pipe. This pipe line can
be connected to various sanitary and bathing outlets such as wash hand basins, bidets, taps,
showers. The outlets of hot water to such sanitary or bathing points can be through, mixer units
or simple Bib taps or pillar cocks (in case of basins ). The Mixer unit has two inlet points. The
one on the left is for admitting flow of Hot water and on the right for cold (normal) water. The
volume of hot as well as cold water can be regulated by regulating key / knobs and thus the hot
and cold water gets mixed with one another and comes out of the tap / spout to be used for
bathing or washing. Thus it facilitates to get the hot water of desirable temperature as per
individuals need. Since these types of Geysers are designed to hold and store hot water they are
referred as Storage Type Water Heaters. At the bottom of these Geysers is also provided a drain
outlet which is kept close with a threaded brass plug; which can be opened whenever draining of
Geyser is required and the plug re- fixed after use.

Because of its design and make these Geysers according to user's convenience can be installed
within the Baths/ Toilets or even can be located outside or on any close by convenient spot.

In this type (storage type) of Hot water supply system it is recommended to provide cold water
connection to the Geyser from overhead water storage tank. Since the storage tanks have higher
elevations the hot water from this type of Geysers can also be distributed to upper floors (due to
pressure of gravity). While fixing the position or location of this type of Geyser it is essential to
keep the length of Hot water distribution pipe to minimum possible to reduce heat loss.
Preferably it may be in centrally placed with relation to different points (outlets) where hot water
is finally used.
Que: What are the different types and sizes of water supply pipes available in the market?
Explain their use, advantages and disadvantages.

For distribution of water in buildings pipe of various materials are used such as pipes of lead,
copper, mild steel, galvanized iron (G.I.), P.V.C. and C.P.V.C. (Chlorinated Polyvinyl
Chloride). In our country the largely used pipes are of G.I., P.V.C. and C.P.V.C.

 Galvanized Iron Pipe (G.I. Pipes):-

G.I. pipes are quiet economical compared to other types of pipes except of course than P.V.C.
pipes.

Sizes of G.I Pipe-

In market G.1. pipe are usually available in lengths of 6.00 metre and the minimum internal
diameter of 12 mm.

For water supply and distribution system in building/s normally the 12 mm to 50 mm diameter
(internal diameter) pipes are used, however for large complexes where quantity of water to be
handled is large, Pipes of75-150 mm diameter are also made use of.

Advantages of Galvanized Iron Pipe-

 These pipes being made out of Galvanized Iron can easily be planned and laid
underground, under the floor, on the wall or concealed inside the wall.
 These pipes are strong and durable enough to resist water pressure as well can withstand
external mechanical pressure / shocks and resist sun and climatic variations.
 G.I.pipes are economical.

Disadvantages-

 These pipes being made of G.I. are rigid that is to say are not flexible and hence cannot
be bent and required special fittings
 Because of material these pipes corrode easily
 Cutting of these pipes is difficult.
G. I. Pipe Fittings

G.I. pipes are rigid that is to say are not flexible and hence cannot be bent. So to provide
turns, bends, branching/s etc. to the pipe lines specially made pipe fittings (equipment's) are
used.

• Such fittings are threaded from inside so as to provide easy connection to various pipe
lengths. All G.I. pipes at its both ends are always provided with threaded surface on its
external faces, to provide necessary water tight joints and connections to the next length
(piece) of pipe.

• All such joints are made water tight by covering the threaded portion with jute fibers,
Teflon tapes, whiting or specially made jointing paste.

These fittings are available in various shapes and sizes (to match various pipe diameters) so
as to provide; bend, turn, branches or extension to G.1. pipes.

• Coupling or Collar or Sockets

• Elbow

• Tee

• Reducer

• Bend

• Nipple

• Union

• Plug

• Double
Tee or
Cross connector
POLYVINYL CHLORIDE (P.V.C) PIPES

Polyvinyl Chloride pipes are made out of P.V.C. These pipes are largely used for normal water
supply that means its use is avoided for hot water supply, Since P.V.C. has good resistance to
light acids and is also non corrosive these pipes can also be laid underground.

Sizes-

12mm,20mm,25mm,32mm,38mm and 50mm diameters (internal diameters),

Length - 1800mm, 3050mm and 3600mm

Advantages:-

 Cheaper than G.I. pipes.

These pipe are more flexible, light in weight and easy to cut. Therefore are very easy to
handle.

 P.V.C. has good resistance to light acids and is also non corrosive

 These pipes can also be laid underground.

 Laying and fixing of P.V.C. water convenient and fast and saves lot of labour and time
and hence proves to be economical for this reason as well.

 P.V.C. pipe line is fixed or connected to vertical and horizontal surfaces.

Disadvantages –

• Not use for hot water supply.

For laying of P.V.C. pipe lines for water supply system in a building the essential fitting
available in P.VC. such as

• Coupling or collar,

• Elbow,

• Tee,
 • Reducers,

• Bend,

• Double Tee.

The joining in this system obviously does not require threading, instead the joints are made by
gluing the pipe and fittings with specially made adhesives known as "P.VC. Cement" which
not only joins (Cold welding) but also makes the connection water tight as well.

Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (C.P.V.C.) Pipes

C.P.V.C. is a thermoplastic product obtained by chlorination of Polyvinyl Chloride (P.V.C.)

resin. CPVC can be used for pipes for hot and cold water and handling of industrial liquid.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is chlorinated via a free radical chlorination reaction to produce
CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride).

Sizes-

12mm,20mm,25mm,32mm,38mm and 50mm diameters (internal diameters)

Length - 1800mm, 3050mm and 3600mm

Advantages

• CPVC pipes are light weight hence ensure safer and easier handling and low
transportation and labour cost.

• CPVC pipe is easy to cut join and install. The cold welding makes joints faster and
speeds-up installation; saving both on labour cost as well as time.

• Simple cutting, chamfering and CPVC solvent (also called as CPVC cement) are the only
requirements for 100% leak proof plumbing.

• Even under large water conditions like low pH water and aggressive service conditions
such as corrosive soils and coastal salt air the CPVC does not breakdown. Due to these
characteristics it can be buried directly under concrete.
• As it retards bacterial growth it keeps the water quality healthy and good and therefore it
makes CPVC as the most suitable for drinking water pipe lines.

• The thermoplastic properties of CPVC provide excellent insulation thus enabling in

keeping cold water colder and hot water hotter than other types of plumbing. CPVC
therefore needs low insulation levels thereby saves cost of insulation.

• CPVC piping systems are tough, strong, rigid with higher pressure bearing capacity,
thus provides excellent performance in tough conditions.

• The high impact strength and durability of CPVC pipes make it last longer and also has
low initial cost and lower maintenance against other materials makes it very economical
over long period of time also.

• The joining and its fittings by cold welding using CPVC solvents (CPVC cement) is very
simple, easy and quick as well.

• These joints are strong and durable and ensure leak free installation for the whole life
span of the pipes.

• CPVC pipes are extremely fire resistant.

Uses of CPVC pipes

• Drinking water and carrying of food liquid supply.

• Water and waste-water treatment plants

• Hot and cold water supply systems in residential industrial, commercial and public
projects.

• Solar heating, central heating and radiant floor heating application.

• As protection pipe for high tension cable to act as a pipe for electric net improvement.

• Use in industries like metal finishing, plating and treatment, pulp and paper, air pollution
control, mining, aerospace, textile, food and beverage processing and so also for fire
sprinkler piping and municipal projects.
CPVC Pipe Fittings (connecting/jointing equipment's) like G.I. pipe, CPVC fittings are available
in almost identical shapes and; these fitting namely are Coupling or Collar or Sockets, Elbow,
Tee, Reducers, Bend, Union, Plug and Double 'Tee'/ Cross connector.

The CPVC pipes are also fixed or connected to vertical and horizontal surfaces in a manner
similar to what has been described in case of G.1. pipes

Collars, Elbows, Tee, Reducers etc. in which fittings like Taps, Showers and various types of
valves are to be fixed are provided with threaded surfaces.