Surgetank

Surgetank is a term used for a surge tank, a reservoir or chamber connected to a hydraulic conveyance such as a penstock or pipeline to absorb sudden changes in pressure and water hammer. In some contexts the two spellings are used interchangeably.

The primary purpose of a surgetank is to provide a buffer that dampens pressure transients caused by rapid valve closure, pump start-up, or load rejection, protecting downstream equipment and reducing the risk of pipe ruptures. By offering a controlled space for water to move and compressible gas or air to absorb energy, the surgetank helps maintain stable pressure and flow in the system.

Typical configurations include open surge tanks, which are vented to atmosphere and use an air-water interface to cushion the surge, and sealed or pneumatic surge tanks, in which a gas cushion provides the energy absorption; design choices depend on system pressure, temperature, and operating philosophy.

In hydroelectric and pumped-storage plants, surgetanks are commonly placed near the power house or at the end of a penstock to stabilize head and ensure controllable flow. They may be relatively large vertical tanks or smaller chambers integrated into tunnels or pipelines.

Maintenance includes regular inspection of the tank, air cushion or gas head, water level sensors, and leakage checks; improper maintenance can degrade performance or cause gas dissolution or waterlogging. The surgetank design and upkeep are important for the reliability and safety of hydraulic systems.