Why does every neighborhood community have someone who likes to move furniture after hours and another who likes to play marbles? Science has no explanation for the first, but there is an explanation for the second. And the fact is that in fact, when it seems to us that we hear the sound of marble on the floor above, this is not entirely true. Actually, this the sound of trumpets there is a phenomenon in physics known as Zhukovsky’s pulse or water hammer.
It happens when faucet or valve suddenly closed. This can happen at any time of the day, although we hear this marble sound more often at night, mainly because everything is quiet around.
This is something very common, so almost all of us have heard it at some point. In principle, this is not associated with risk, although it is true that in some situations it can be dangerous, as it indicates the situation may end with a rupture of pipes. In any case, before we get to that, let’s get down to the basics: why do we hear that marble noise?
Zhukovsky’s pulse and the noise of balls in pipes
Fluids generally have a slightly elastic behavior. That’s why when the water rushes through the pipes and they slam shut faucet or faucet a curious effect occurs. Particles approaching a closed point stop abruptly. However, those who are behind continue to move towards the point run into them. It gives rise to a kind rebound, in which water occupies the vacuum formed behind it, expanding the air to the edges of the pipes. As a result, increases pressure and they tremble, making a roar like the sound of marble.
It is important to note that this does not only happen when the tap is closed. This can also happen when the valve closes during washing machine or dishwasher They stop drinking water.
It may be dangerous?
The whole phenomenon of water hammer is accompanied by a sudden increase in pressure, which under certain circumstances does not It may be dangerous.
For example, during the holidays, when fewer people live in the building, more valves and taps close, so it is more difficult to release this pressure. As a result, after the roar of the pipe balls they might explode. And not only that, the taps and valves installed in the building can also break.
The danger increases during the holidays, when there are fewer people in the buildings.
Fortunately, there are some mechanisms that prevent the danger of water hammer. For example, it is important that liquid particles don’t move too fast. To do this, play with the diameter of the pipes until adequate speeds are achieved.
On the other hand, they can be used poppet valves, which stop the flow of water in pipes more smoothly than conventional ones. Thus, suddenness, which can lead to water hammer, is excluded. In the same way, you can use other elements that can absorb the pressure waves that create this effect.
In short, if you hear this characterization marble sound, it’s actually water making carom in the pipes of your house. The plumbing system must be ready to withstand this pressure, so in principle there is nothing to be afraid of. You can just stop thinking that your upstairs neighbor has some weird hobbies. Or maybe he is a fan of traditional children’s games. This is somewhat less likely, but it can happen. However, we are not here to judge you.
Source: Hiper Textual
