Nozzle design and selection is similar to picking an automobile. The buyer’s choices are endless, but the buyer must make certain decisions: what style, performance characteristics, etc. Every car will move the buyer from Point A to Point B, just as every nozzle will clean sewer lines in some fashion. The question remains, “in what style and at what price” does the buyer wish to travel or clean. Sewer cleaning nozzles are very much the same. The “nozzle educated” buyer must chose between different types of nozzles to determine first cost, performance characteristics, and life cycle costs that fit the budget and match the scope of the job being undertaken. KEG is ready to assist the buyer in making these decisions.

Tier One, Tier Two, and Tier Three Nozzles

The National Association of Sewer Service Companies (NASSCO) divides sewer cleaning nozzles into three categories (see NASSCO Jetting Code of Practice or visit NASSCO’s website on-line at www.nassco.org). Each category has its design and performance characteristics. KEG’s 2007 Product Catalog utilizes the NASSCO* designations to assist our customers in making informed buying decisions.

Nozzle Performance and Usage
Variables of Nozzle Performance

In selecting a cleaning tool for a specific job, and to operate the tool on a specific jetter or sewer combination truck, the operator must know the variables of flow (GPM), pressure (PSI), hose size (diameter in inches), and hose length (feet). All of these variables interact to affect the performance of a sewer cleaning tool. Improper use and alignment of these variables will not allow the tool to perform correctly or will adversely affect the operator’s ability to accomplish his/her job. KEG has developed in-house proprietary software to assist our customers in configuring their equipment for optimum cleaning performance. Contact your KEG Territory Manager for more information on these important nozzle configuration issues.

Flow Rate Versus Pressure

Flow (measured in GPM) is a vital component of the cleaning process. Generally, lower flows as generated by a pump are used to clean smaller diameter pipes, and flow in GPM typically increases as the diameter of pipe increases. Conversely, pressures generated by the tool (measured in PSI) are usually higher when cleaning smaller diameter pipes, and pressure in PSI usually decreases as the diameter of the pipe increases. The table following shows general rules-of-thumb for flow and pressure combinations, and minimum and maximum flows per hose size*.

Length of Hose

A final word on configuration includes careful selection of hose size. As the table above suggests, hose of a certain diameter has a finite range of efficient operation. Failure to follow these guidelines may result in significant pressure losses at the nozzle or cleaning tool. KEG can assist you and train your operators in the correct selection of tools for your particular equipment configurations.

Pipe Cleaning As a Process
Picking The Correct Tool For the Job