Understanding the Water Tightness Test for Valve Chambers

As a construction professional, it’s essential to ensure that your valve chambers are water-tight to prevent leaks and water damage. Conducting a water-tightness test can help you identify any leaks in the chamber before putting it into use.

The water-tightness test involves filling the chamber with water at a uniform rate of not greater than 2m in 24 hours.

The liquid level should be maintained for a stabilizing period of 21 days to allow for absorption and autogenous healing. After this period, the liquid surface level should be recorded at 24hour intervals for a test period of 7 days.

During the 7-day test period, the permissible drop in the liquid level should not exceed 1/500th of the average water depth of the full tank or 10mm, after accounting for evaporation and rainfall. If any evidence of liquid seepage to the outside faces of the valve chamber walls is found, necessary remedial treatment should be carried out from the liquid face.

If the structure does not satisfy the 7-day test, it should be refilled, remedial work completed, and left for a further stabilizing period before undergoing another 7-day test.

In conclusion, the water tightness test is crucial for ensuring the quality and reliability of valve chambers. By following the proper testing procedures, construction professionals can identify any leaks and make necessary repairs to ensure the long-term functionality of the chamber.

One chamber done, 13 more to go.