Author(s): Terry Lucke; Simon Beecham

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Abstract: Siphonic roof drainage is a highly efficient type of drainage system that is particularly suitable for large buildings and other structures over approximately 4m in height. Many buildings worldwide such as Stadium Australia in Sydney, Chek Lap Kok airport in Hong Kong and the Rolls-Royce production facility in Inchinnan, Scotland have been designed with siphonic roof drainage systems. Siphonic systems have much appeal for architects and designers due to the many advantages they offer over traditional gravity driven roof drainage systems. Although siphonic roof drainage systems are enjoying ever increasing popularity with designers, there is still some uncertainty regarding the minimum pipe pressure ratings required for siphonic pipework, especially in tall buildings. This is particularly the case in warmer countries since higher temperatures can drastically decrease the strength of the pipework material typically used in siphonic systems such as PVC and HDPE. There is very limited information available on how plastic pipes behave under the sub-atmospheric pressures that occur under operating conditions in siphonic systems. This paper describes experiments conducted to investigate sub-atmospheric pressures in siphonic systems. Recommendations for minimum pipework pressure ratings are also provided. This paper will help engineers design siphonic systems with more confidence that they will continue to perform over their intended design life.

DOI:

Year: 2010