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Absolute pressure |
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Definition
The addition of gauge pressure and atmospheric pressure. Usually indicated as psia.
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Aerator marking |
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Definition
Spout-end devices must bear a permanent legible marking “A112.18.1M” and the flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM) or gallons per cycle (GPC) as well as in liters per rminute (L/min) or liters per cycle (L/cycle) - (FTC rule 305.11).
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Air gap |
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Definition
Unobstructed vertical distance between the faucet spout end (aerator) and the flood rim of the sink or lavatory. Plumbing codes require a minimum distance of 1".
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Atmospheric pressure |
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Definition
Pressure exerted by the weight of the atmosphere. Decreases as the elevation above sea level increases (14.7 psi / 407” water column at sea level).
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Diverter |
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Definition
Refers to a mechanical device integral to a fitting used to direct the flow of water from a primary outlet to a secondary outlet. Example: tub to shower, kitchen faucet spout to vegetable spray.
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Dynamic Pressure |
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Definition
Refers to the pressure level (psi) when there is an actual flow.
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Effective opening |
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Definition
In faucets, fittings or valves refers to the smallest orifice in the fitting body or in the supply piping to the fitting. In general, the greater the effective opening, the lower the headloss.
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EPAct 1992 |
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Definition
The Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 (EPCA) amended by the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (EPAct 92) created the Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products covering (among other products) faucets and showers.
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Term |
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Flood level rim |
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Definition
Top edge of a kitchen sink, lavatory bowl or tub over which water would overflow.
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Flow regulator |
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Definition
Pressure compensating flow regulators maintain a constant flow rate regardless of variations in line pressure. Precise flow control improves system performance and in the case of plumbing systems provides comfort of use at low pressure as well as water and energy saving at high pressure.
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Flow restrictor |
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Definition
Refers to a fixed orifice. A restrictor produces higher flow at higher pressure (excess flow) and lower flow at lower pressure (insufficient flow).
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Gauge pressure |
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Definition
Pressure read on a pressure gauge. Measures only the amount of pressure above (or below) the atmospheric pressure. Pressure values given in this website are gauge pressures (psig).
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Laminar stream |
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Definition
In NEOPERL’s terminology refers to the non-aerated crystal-clear stream produced by NEOPERL stream straighteners.
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Metering faucet |
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Definition
When actuated mechanical or electronic metering faucets dispense water for a pre-determined period of time. Combined with a PCA aerator, metering faucets deliver a pre-defined volume of water to meet Code requirements (0.25 gpc - gallon per cycle).
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Public lavatory faucet |
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Definition
Faucet installed in non-residential bathrooms exposed to walk-in traffic. Federal law requires a maximum flow rate of 0.5 gpm or 0.25 gpc (metering faucets).
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PVD |
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Definition
Physical Vapor Deposition is a process (also known as “ion plating”) used to create a very durable surface finish. It is applied to plumbing fixtures and faucet aerators to produce a range of decorative finishes from brass tones to metallic black.
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Regulator |
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Definition
See “Flow regulator”
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Restrictor |
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Definition
See “Flow restrictor”
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Static pressure |
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Definition
Refers to the pressure level (psi) when there is no flow.
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Stream quality |
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Definition
Factors to consider when comparing stream quality include effective aeration, stream straightness, stream diameter, side splash and of course actual flow performance (flow rate across the pressure range)
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Water conservation |
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Definition
The adoption of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPACT ‘92) resulted in statutory requirements with respect to plumbing products (A112.18.1M) being included in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and monitored by the Department of Energy (DOE).
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Water Hardness |
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Definition
Water hardness is usually expressed in parts per million (ppm) of dissolved calcium carbonate. Hard water usually also contains another dissolved mineral, magnesium carbonate. Limestone deposits from hard water (calcium and magnesium carbonates) can affect stream quality in faucet aerators and also cause early valve failure.
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Working conditions |
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Definition
Refers to the usual parameters of the application such as medium, pressure range and temperature range.
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Zirconium Nitride |
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Definition
The popular finish “polished brass” or “brilliant brass” is actually Zirconium Nitride (ZrN) deposited by Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD).
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For further information visit our
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