Guidance for Scientific Equipment Connections to Water Systems

Based on incident history at SLAC and lessons learned from other National Labs, many water connection failures are caused by installations lacking intentional design at the utility connection point. Often, connections are made without engineered pressure fittings of known ratings. This generally occurs when laboratory personnel make use of existing hardware in the lab (often hose barb fittings), then use simple tubing and clamps to make a connection that is strong enough to meet immediate needs. However, unforeseen changes to the system (ex: pressure spikes, mechanical stress, wear) as well as  unknown variables in the tubing connection, can eventually cause a failure and result in a leak and flood. Often, this flooding results in damage to assets, wasted water, and safety hazards.

The information provided will assist the SLAC Lab or Building Manager to identify appropriate methods to install reliable connections and assess existing conditions in their spaces.

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Guidance for Scientific Equipment Connections to Water Systems (PDF)