IS 10446:1983 provides a comprehensive glossary of terms related to water supply and sanitation systems, defining key components, fittings, valves, and processes used in plumbing and sewage infrastructure. This standard is essential for engineers, designers, and professionals involved in water supply, drainage, and sanitation projects to ensure consistent terminology and clear communication across the industry.
Overview
IS 10446:1983 provides a comprehensive glossary of terms related to water supply and sanitation systems, defining key components, fittings, valves, and processes used in plumbing and sewage infrastructure. This standard is essential for engineers, designers, and professionals involved in water supply, drainage, and sanitation projects to ensure consistent terminology and clear communication across the industry.
Audience
Contents
Structure
IS 10446: Scope Summary
flowchart LR
A[Water Supply & Sanitation] --> B[Terminology Standardization]
B --> C[Engineers, Architects, Contractors]
B --> D[International Coordination]
D --> E[BS 4118-1967]
B --> F[Indian Practices]
For detailed design and specifications, refer to respective IS codes (e.g., IS 1172 for water supply, IS 456 for concrete structures).
IS 10446: Glossary of Terms for Water Supply & Sanitation
This standard provides standardized definitions for technical terms used in water supply and sanitation to ensure uniform understanding among professionals.
For detailed design, refer to related IS codes like IS 1172 (Code of basic requirements for water supply, drainage, and sanitation).
flowchart LR
A[Water Supply Terms] --> B[Potable Water]
A --> C[Distribution Network]
D[Sanitation Terms] --> E[Sewage]
D --> F[Sanitary Fittings]
G[Measurement Units] --> H[lpcd]
If you need definitions of specific terms, I can provide them!
IS 10446: Air Gap and Related Definitions
Air Gap (Clause 2.9):
The vertical distance between the lowest point of the water inlet/feed pipe and the spill-over (overflow) level of the appliance.
Purpose: Prevents backflow contamination by ensuring physical separation.
Depth of Water Seal (Clause 2.151):
The depth of water in a trap that must be removed before air can freely pass through it. This ensures a water barrier to block sewer gases.
Water Seal (Clause 2.712):
The actual water volume in a trap acting as an air barrier.
Pipe Interrupter (Clause 2.409):
A fitting allowing water flow but permitting air entry through apertures to break siphonage.
| Parameter | Typical Value/Requirement |
|---|---|
| Minimum Air Gap | ≥ 25 mm (1 inch) or as per local code |
| Purpose | Prevent backflow contamination |
flowchart TB
A[Water Inlet Pipe] -->|Water flows| B[Appliance]
B -->|Overflow Level| C[Spill-over Level]
A ---|Air Gap| D[Vertical Distance]
D -.-> C
Summary:
Maintain a minimum air gap (≥ 25 mm) between inlet and overflow level to prevent contamination. Water seal depth ensures trap effectiveness, and pipe interrupters prevent siphonage while allowing air entry.
IS 10446: Air Release Valve Key Points
Air Release Valve (Clause 2.11):
Releases entrapped air manually or automatically from water pipelines to prevent air pockets.
Air Valve (Clause 2.13):
Automatically releases air without water loss or admits air if internal pressure < atmospheric.
Large Orifice Air Valve (Clause 2.328):
Small Orifice Air Valve (Clause 2.564):
| Valve Type | Orifice Size | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Large Orifice Air Valve | ~50% of ball diameter | Pass large air volumes during filling |
| Small Orifice Air Valve | Very small | Release trapped air under pressure |
[ Q = C_d A \sqrt{2gH} ]
Where:
flowchart LR
A[Water Pipeline] --> B[Entrapped Air]
B --> C{Air Valve Type?}
C -->|Large Orifice| D[Pass large air during filling]
C -->|Small Orifice| E[Release trapped air under pressure]
D --> F[Valve closes under pressure]
E --> F
Summary: Use large orifice valves for bulk air release during filling/emptying, small orifice valves for continuous small air release during operation.
IS 10446: Air Test (Pneumatic Test) Key Points
Purpose: Verify soundness of drainage/discharge pipe systems by applying internal air pressure (Clause 2.12).
Test Pressure (Clause 2.644):
Test Duration:
Acceptance Criteria:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Seal pipe ends | Close all openings with plugs or caps |
| 2. Apply air pressure | Slowly increase to test pressure (0.5–1 bar) |
| 3. Observe pressure | Maintain and monitor for 5 minutes |
| 4. Check leaks | Inspect joints/fittings for air leakage |
| 5. Pass/Fail | No leaks and stable pressure = Pass |
flowchart LR
A[Seal Pipe Ends] --> B[Apply Air Pressure (0.5-1 bar)]
B --> C[Maintain Pressure for 5 min]
C --> D{Pressure Stable?}
D -->|Yes| E[No Leaks - Pass]
D -->|No| F[Leaks Detected - Fail]
This summarizes the air test essentials from IS 10446 for drainage pipe soundness verification.
Back Pressure in IS 10446
Definition (2.40): Back Pressure is the air pressure in drainage pipes exceeding atmospheric pressure, causing resistance to flow.
Pressure Head (2.433):
[
h = \frac{P}{\rho g}
]
Where:
Working Pressure (2.732): Design pressure for pipes/vessels to withstand operational loads.
Backflow Prevention (2.728):
Measures include:
| Parameter | Symbol | Typical Value |
|---|---|---|
| Air Pressure | (P) | > Atmospheric (101.3 kPa) |
| Water Density | (\rho) | 1000 kg/m³ |
| Gravity | (g) | 9.81 m/s² |
| Pressure Head | (h) | Calculated from (h = P/\rho g) |
flowchart LR
A[Drainage Pipe] -->|Back Pressure > Atmospheric| B[Air Pressure Build-up]
B --> C{Backflow Prevention}
C --> D[Anti-vacuum Valve]
C --> E[Check Valve]
C --> F[Vent Pipe]
This ensures safe drainage flow by relieving back pressure and preventing contamination.
IS 10446: Bedpan Sink (Bedpan Sluice) Key Points
Definition (Clause 2.53):
An open appliance used for emptying and cleansing bedpans and urine bottles.
Design Considerations:
Specifications:
Typical Dimensions:
| Parameter | Value (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Sink Bowl Depth | 200 - 250 mm |
| Width | 400 - 500 mm |
| Length | 500 - 600 mm |
Related Appliances:
flowchart LR
BedpanSink[Bedpan Sink]
BedpanWasher[Bedpan Washer]
SlopHopper[Slop Hopper]
Sink[General Sink]
BedpanSink --> Sink
BedpanWasher --> Sink
SlopHopper --> Sink
Summary: Bedpan sinks are open, easily cleanable appliances with flushing rims and proper drainage, designed specifically for hygienic handling of bedpans and urine bottles in healthcare settings.
IS 10446 - Bottle Filling Tap Key Points
Definition (Clause 2.67):
A bottle filling tap has a tapered nozzle designed to deliver a stream suitable for filling bottles efficiently without splashing.
Key Specifications:
Flow Rate Estimation:
While IS 10446 does not specify exact flow rates for bottle filling taps, typical flow rates range from 4 to 8 liters per minute to balance speed and control.
Comparison with Other Taps:
| Tap Type | Flow Form | Typical Flow Rate (L/min) | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bottle Filling Tap | Tapered stream | 4 - 8 | Filling bottles |
| Bib Tap | Downward stream | 6 - 10 | General washing/filling |
| Spray Mixing Tap | Mixed spray | ~3 - 6 | Hand washing, hygiene |
| Spray Tap | Pre-set temp spray | ~3 - 6 | Hygiene, controlled flow |
flowchart LR
A[Water Supply] --> B[Bottle Filling Tap]
B --> C[Tapered Nozzle]
C --> D[Controlled Stream]
D --> E[Bottle Filling]
For detailed design, ensure the nozzle diameter and taper angle provide a laminar, splash-free flow, and comply with hygienic standards.
IS 10446: Key Points on Cisterns
| Parameter | Typical Values / Notes |
|---|---|
| Nominal size | Volume discharged per flush (e.g., 6-10 liters for WC) |
| Float Valve Setting | Controls water level to avoid overflow |
| Capacity | Depends on fixture type and usage frequency |
flowchart LR
A[Water Supply] --> B[Float Valve]
B --> C[Cistern Tank]
C --> D[Flush Outlet]
D --> E[Sanitary Appliance]
C --> F[Overflow Pipe]
For detailed sizing, refer to IS 10446 tables on fixture flush volumes and cistern capacities.
IS 10446: Cross Vent (Yoke Vent) Summary
Definition:
A Cross Vent (Yoke Vent) is a short relief vent pipe connecting the main discharge pipe (soil or waste pipe) to the main ventilating pipe. It equalizes pressure and prevents trap siphoning.
Purpose:
Key Specifications:
Design Considerations:
| Main Discharge Pipe Diameter (D) | Cross Vent Diameter (min) |
|---|---|
| 75 mm (3") | 40 mm (1.5") |
| 100 mm (4") | 50 mm (2") |
| 150 mm (6") | 75 mm (3") |
flowchart TB
A[Main Soil/Waste Pipe] --> B[Cross Vent (Yoke Vent)]
B --> C[Main Ventilating Pipe]
style B fill:#f9f,stroke:#333,stroke-width:2px
This ensures proper ventilation and pressure equalization in the drainage system as per IS 10446 clauses 2.142 and 2.736.
IS 10446: Deep Seal Trap Key Points
Definition (Clause 2.149):
A Deep Seal Trap has a water seal depth > 50 mm.
Water Seal Depth (Clause 2.151):
Depth of water that must be removed before air passes freely through the trap.
Water Seal Function (Clause 2.712):
Water acts as an air barrier, preventing sewer gases from entering.
Resealing Trap (Clause 2.472):
Designed to maintain water seal even after negative pressure events.
| Parameter | Value/Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Water Seal Depth | > 50 mm | Prevents gas passage |
| Recommended Seal Depth | 75 to 100 mm | Ensures trap effectiveness |
| Trap Diameter | As per flow rate | To avoid blockage |
[ h = \frac{P}{\rho g} ]
Where:
flowchart TB
A[Inlet Pipe] --> B[Trap Body]
B --> C[Water Seal (>50mm)]
C --> D[Outlet Pipe]
style C fill:#a2d5f2,stroke:#333,stroke-width:2px
This ensures a water barrier preventing gas flow while allowing wastewater discharge.
IS 10446 - Ferrule Key: Key Points & Specifications
Ferrule Key (Clause 2.210):
A tool specifically designed to operate the valve of a screwdown ferrule.
Screwdown Ferrule (Clause 2.500):
Bent Ferrule (Clause 2.57):
Swivel Ferrule (Clause 2.626):
| Component | Key Dimension/Feature | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ferrule Key | Length: 300-500 mm (typical) | Must fit screwdown valve head |
| Screwdown Valve | Diameter: According to pipe size | Usually DN 50 to DN 150 |
| Bent Ferrule | Bend angle: 90° | Ensures smooth directional flow |
| Swivel Ferrule | Swivel range: 0° to 360° | Allows flexible pipe routing |
flowchart LR
A[Water Main] --> B[Screwdown Ferrule]
B --> C[Valve (Operated by Ferrule Key)]
C --> D[Service Pipe]
B --> E[Swivel Joint (if Swivel Ferrule)]
For detailed dimensions and manufacturing tolerances, refer to IS 10446 tables and drawings specific to ferrule sizes and valve types.
IS 10446 covers specifications for Hot Water Tanks used in domestic and industrial applications. Key points and formulas include:
[ t = \frac{P \times D}{2 \times \sigma \times \eta + P} ]
Where:
| Parameter | Typical Values |
|---|---|
| Design Pressure | 0.5 to 1.5 MPa |
| Operating Temperature | Up to 100°C (domestic) |
| Material Thickness | 3 mm to 10 mm (based on size and pressure) |
| Insulation Thickness | 25 to 50 mm (for heat loss reduction) |
flowchart LR
Boiler -->|Hot water circulates| IndirectCylinder
IndirectCylinder -->|Heat transfer| StoredWater
StoredWater -->|Supply| UsagePoints
UsagePoints -->|Return| Boiler
This diagram shows an Indirect Cylinder heating system where primary (boiler) and secondary (stored water) circuits are separate.
IS 10446 - Lifting Key: Key Points and Specifications
Definition (Clause 2.335):
A Lifting Key is specifically designed to lift covers of surface boxes, inspection chambers, or manholes.
Purpose:
Enables safe and efficient removal of heavy covers without damage.
Typical Dimensions & Material:
Key Design Considerations:
Related IS Code References:
No direct formula is given in IS 10446 for lifting keys, but design follows mechanical leverage principles:
[ \text{Lifting Force} = \frac{\text{Weight of Cover}}{\text{Lever Arm Length}} ]
| Cover Weight (kg) | Key Length (mm) | Cross-section (mm) | Material |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 50 | 150-200 | 15 x 15 | Mild Steel |
| 50 - 100 | 200-250 | 20 x 20 | Cast Iron |
| Above 100 | 250-300 | 25 x 25 | Alloy Steel |
flowchart LR
A[Lifting Key Inserted] --> B[Engages in Cover Slot]
B --> C[Lifting Force Applied]
C --> D[Cover Lifted Safely]
Summary: Use a robust steel key sized to cover weight, ensuring proper fit and leverage per IS 10446 definitions.
IS 10446: Pipe Clip (Saddle Clip) - Key Points
Definition (Clause 2.404):
A metal or suitable material piece shaped to fit over a pipe, with ears for fixing to walls or structures.
Types & Related Components:
| Parameter | Typical Range/Value |
|---|---|
| Material | Mild steel, galvanized or stainless steel |
| Thickness | 1.5 mm to 3 mm (depending on pipe size) |
| Ear Width | 15 mm to 25 mm |
| Ear Hole Diameter | 6 mm to 10 mm (for fixing bolts) |
| Radius of curvature | Matches pipe outside diameter |
graph LR
A[Wall/Structure] --- B[Pipe Clip (Saddle Clip)]
B --- C[Pipe]
B --- D[Ear with bolt hole]
D --- E[Fixing Bolt]
Summary: IS 10446 defines pipe clips as curved clamps with fixing ears; thickness and ear dimensions depend on pipe size. Buffer clips add rubber buffers for WC pipes. Saddles reinforce or branch pipes. Pipe rings are split clamps for support.
Frequently Asked
According to IS 10446 Clause 2.214, the standard definitions for common water supply fittings and valves include:
These components are essential for controlling, directing, or measuring water flow in plumbing and sanitation systems.
| Valve Type | Function |
|---|---|
| Stop Valve | Controls flow by fully stopping or allowing water |
| Globe Tap | Regulates flow with a movable disk |
| Ball Valve | Uses a rotating ball to control flow |
| Bib Tap | External tap for outdoor water access |
| Pillar Tap | Freestanding tap, often in gardens |
Loading diagram...
This glossary ensures uniform understanding and specification of water supply components.
IS 10446 defines traps and vents in drainage as follows:
Trap (2.657): A device providing a liquid seal to block backflow of air (sewer gases) while allowing sewage/wastewater flow. Proper venting is essential to maintain the seal.
Trap Ventilating Pipe / Anti-siphon Pipe (2.660): A vent pipe connected near the trap outlet to prevent siphoning of the trap seal, maintaining its water seal integrity.
Intercepting Trap / Disconnecting Trap (2.310): Installed on a drain to block sewer gas from entering the drain system.
Ventilating Pipe (2.684): A pipe that allows air circulation in the sanitary system, preventing pressure fluctuations that could break trap seals.
Summary Table:
| Term | Function |
|---|---|
| Trap | Liquid seal to block sewer gases |
| Trap Ventilating Pipe | Prevents siphoning of trap seal |
| Intercepting Trap | Blocks sewer gas from drains |
| Ventilating Pipe | Air circulation to protect trap seals |
Loading diagram...
IS 10446 defines the following key terminology for water heating and storage equipment:
Storage Water Heater (2.606)
Combination Hot Water Storage Unit / Combination Tank (2.120)
Water Heater (2.708)
Indirect Cylinder (2.292)
This classification helps in selecting and specifying equipment based on heating method and storage configuration.
According to IS 10446 Glossary, the following testing methods for drainage system soundness are covered:
Air Test (Pneumatic Test) (Clause 2.12)
Applies internal air pressure to check system soundness.
Water Test (Hydraulic Test) (Clause 2.715)
Uses internal water pressure to verify soundness.
Smoke Test (Clause 2.565)
Applies smoke under pressure internally to detect leaks.
Tests (On Pipe Systems) (Clause 2.645)
General term covering proving soundness or adequacy of pipe systems.
Summary Table:
| Test Type | Medium | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Air Test | Air | Soundness via air pressure |
| Water Test | Water | Soundness via water pressure |
| Smoke Test | Smoke | Leak detection |
| General Pipe Tests | Air/Water | Soundness and adequacy |
These tests ensure the drainage system is leak-proof and structurally sound before commissioning.
According to IS 10446, sanitary appliances and connectors are defined as follows:
WC Pan (Clause 2.719): A bowl-shaped appliance with an inlet for flushing water and a trapped outlet to receive and flush away human waste.
WC Suite (Clause 2.721): Comprises the WC pan, seat, flushing apparatus, and any necessary flush pipe.
Sanitary Connector (Clause 2.497): A short, straight discharge pipe with a sanitary socket at one end to connect to the WC pan outlet. It may include a socketed branch for ventilating pipes.
Sanitary Appliance (Clause 2.494): Fixed appliances using water for cleansing, culinary, drinking purposes, or flushing waste.
Summary Table:
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| WC Pan | Bowl with flushing inlet & trapped outlet |
| WC Suite | WC Pan + seat + flushing apparatus + flush pipe |
| Sanitary Connector | Short pipe with socket connecting WC pan outlet |
| Sanitary Appliance | Fixed water-using appliance for cleansing or flushing |
This ensures proper classification and installation of sanitary fixtures in plumbing systems.
Ask AI about any clause, requirement, or provision in IS 10446. Get instant, clause-cited responses powered by our indexed library.
Free tier includes 150 queries (50 AI + 100 Reference) · No credit card required