What is the main purpose of a surge tank in water treatment?

The primary purpose of a surge tank in water treatment is to absorb a water hammer. A water hammer is a pressure surge that occurs when a fluid in motion is forced to stop or change direction suddenly. This can happen, for example, when a valve closes quickly in a pipeline system, causing a significant pressure increase that can potentially damage pipes, fittings, and other system components.

Surge tanks help mitigate this issue by providing a buffer space for the fluid, allowing the pressure to stabilize and reducing the risk of damage. By absorbing the shock waves generated by sudden changes in fluid flow, surge tanks play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and reliability of the water treatment system.

While surge tanks can hold water, their primary function is not just to store excess water but to manage pressure fluctuations effectively. Other processes such as filtration and increasing water pressure are managed by different systems and components in water treatment facilities. Therefore, the significance of a surge tank lies in its ability to manage hydraulic transients, making it an essential feature in water treatment operations.