TECHNICAL
59
The way they work is that they use an ‘elastometer’ (similar to an
O-ring), which deflects with differing pressures. This ensures that the
rated flow is not exceeded. When the elastometer relaxes when the
tap is closed, any trapped dirt is released. This dirt is then expelled
when the first water passes through when the tap is turned on again.
CUSTOMER NEEDS
As you can imagine, taking all these items into consideration, you
have to understand what your customer’s needs are before you can
decide on what to offer them. If you have made the correct selection,
your customer will be assured of many years of user comfort.
What could the result be if we get the selection wrong? Often the
customer will have an idea of what they want to achieve. And just
as often the implementation of their expectations is not possible.
It is up to us to make sure that they fully understand what can,
cannot, and will not happen. If we don’t, we will have a very irate
customer, and we stand the chance of being reported to the
Consumer Protection Ombudsman. Remember, if you do things
correctly, you are fully protected and you and your customer will
have a pleasant experience. PA
2
3 4
1
5
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
If the flow pressure in the fixture is too low, the
user experience will be poor.
An example of an in-line strainer.
The trendiest style is to use single-lever mixers.
An on-demand tap.
A gate valve tap.
May 2018 Volume 24 I Number 3