HYDRAULIC PEROFORMNACE OF FAUCET AERATOR AS WATER SAVING DEVICE AND SUGGESTIONS FOR ITS IMPROVEMENTS

Abstract

Conserving both water and energy with water-efficient technologies is extremely beneficial to the environment. Water conservation is defined as any action that reduces the amount of water withdrawn from water supply sources, reduces consumptive use, reduces the loss or waste of water, improves the efficiency of water use, increases recycling and reuse of water, or prevents the pollution of water. The faucet aerators used in kitchen and W/C taps regulate and reduce the water consumption by the process of aeration. This helps to reduce the usage of water, results in non-splash flow hence these fittings into water taps acts as water saving devices. These devices (faucet aerators) are simple to install and cost effective (Cost ranges between Rs. 150Rs. 450) for normal usage at domestic and industrial installations. If we use faucet aerators and shower heads, we can save money on our heating and water bills. Previous works have revealed that users’ requirements include temperature stability, adequate water volume and its distribution. All of which are substantially controlled by the faucet aerators. The experiments were carried out at the Fluid Mechanics Laboratory, School of Engineering and Technology, Jain University, Bangalore, wherein the hydraulic test rig was installed for conducting the performance test on aerators. The main aim is to conserve the water by usage of faucet aerators; to assess the hydraulic performance of existing faucet aerators and to determine the most suitable type.