The Flow Source is the starting point for systems such as gas, water, fire, and drainage.
It represents the connection to a main supply or an existing point in the network where system connects, and the calculations will begin.
The Flow Source is crucial for defining the initial conditions of the systemβs calculations, such as the Pressure and Height.
How It Works
Placement:
Click on the
Flow Sourcesymbol in the toolbar andleft-clickto place it at the desired location.You can move it by left-clicking and dragging.
Define Properties:
Name: Assign a meaningful name in the properties for easy identification.Flow System: Specify the type of system (e.g., water, fire, gas) if you donβt want the default.Define Key Properties:
For Water/Fire systems:
Residual Pressure: Enter the lowest expected pressure at the connection point. This value is used for downstream, peak flow calculations.Static Pressure: Input the maximum expected pressure at the connection point. This value is used for static demand calculations.Height: Enter the height of the flow source relative to the systemβs reference level. Ensure this value correlates accurately with your level settings.For Gas systems:
Pressure: Enter the lowest expected pressure at the connection point. This value is used for calculations to determine sizing required to provide enough pressure to your appliances.Height: Enter the height of the flow source relative to the systemβs reference level. Ensure this value correlates accurately with your level settings.Connections:
Pipesbecome solid with visible flow arrows when connected to theFlow Sourceproperly. Semi-transparent pipes indicate they are not connected.
Troubleshooting
Verify Properties
Check the Residual Pressure and Static Pressure values to ensure they align with the expected supply conditions.
Confirm the Height value is correctly set relative to your systemβs floor Level.
For example, a Level at 50 feet and a Flow Source at -1 feet means there is a 51-foot difference. You likely should enter 49 feet as the Flow Source height to align correctly.
Check Connections
Properly connected pipes appear solid with visible flow arrows. Semi-transparent pipes indicate a disconnection.