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The Crystal Palace's Guide to Greenhouse Irrigation

Thu, 23 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Greenhouse irrigation is nothing new – a little trip one of London’s greatest greenhouses.

One of the first, and most spectacular, examples of modern greenhouse irrigation was the Crystal Palace which stood in London from 1851 until 1936. This 19-acre glass building was the brainchild of horticulturalist and garden designer, Joseph Paxton. Paxton submitted his design for England's Great Exhibition held in 1851.

A New Style of Architecture
The Crystal Palace was so called because it was constructed almost entirely of glass panes held in place by metal girders. Many of the architectural methods of strengthening a glass building were invented during the design of the Crystal Palace. These construction details may be common today but to 19th century Londoners they were spectacular.

New Inventions in Greenhouse Irrigation
Just as spectacular were the fountains and cascades that were housed among the lush, exotic exhibits inside and out. When the building was moved in 1854, designers added two massive water towers to each side of the building to provide a gravity-fed water supply.

According to 'The History of the Drip Irrigation System,' the modern automated greenhouse irrigation system whereby water is dripped through pipes wasn't used until 1866, and then met with only limited success. It's hard to imagine that, with such an intricate fountain system, people were watering the lush gardens by hand, but this may well be the case. We may never know because the original Crystal Palace is gone, destroyed by a fire in 1936.

Whether you’re working with a massive greenhouse or one in your backyard, contact the greenhouse irrigation specialists at W. P. Law, Inc. to find the watering system that will work best for your needs.

Two Irrigation Tools that Can Make Trouble-Shooting Your System Easy

Thu, 09 May 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Irrigation tools are only as effective as their users are knowledgeable.

Two irrigation tools that every professional contractor needs in their arsenal is a quality volt/ohm meter and a wire/ground fault locator. Electrical control problems are second only to piping problems when it comes to troubleshooting an irrigation system. Bad solenoids, and skinned wires have caused more frustration when trying to solve an irrigation system control problem.

Here is a brief description of what these tools do and how they can benefit the user and save time.

1. Volt/Ohm meter. It is amazing how many contractors do not own this simple low-cost piece of equipment. A volt/ohm meter can be used to check the voltage output of a controller and to check the resistance of a solenoid. It can also be used to check continuity. The best part is you can get a decent volt/ohm meter for $30.00 to $50.00.

2. The second piece of equipment contractors should have access to, is a wire/ground fault locator. This piece of equipment is a lot more expensive with a price tag of $700-$800. Ground fault locators can be used to find nicked or broken wires. The wire locator function can be used to find solenoid valves. This is particularly helpful when trouble shooting a system that you did not install.

Check out our fine selection of irrigation tools. If you have questions, just contact us and we’ll help you find what you need.

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Thu, 02 May 2013 17:47:00 GMT

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3 Plastic Piping Systems and Their Industrial Applications

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Industrial piping systems make the right connection.

Industrial plastic piping systems are ideal for handling highly corrosive fluids. These systems are often easier to install than comparable metal piping systems making them more cost effective.

Here are three commonly used thermoplastics that are used in various industrial plastic piping systems:

PVC: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is the most commonly used thermoplastic piping material and accounts for over 85% of the footage of all thermoplastic piping. PVC has been successfully used in applications such as chemical processing, industrial plating, chilled water distribution, deionized water lines, chemical drainage, water distribution and irrigation. PVC possesses very good physical properties and chemical resistance to acids, alkalis, salt solutions, and many other chemicals. PVC should not be used with polar solvents such as ketones, some chlorinated hydrocarbons, and aromatics. The maximum service temperature for PVC is 140o F. PVC is joined by solvent cementing, threading, or flanging.

CPVC: At 70o F, Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC) has similar physical properties to PVC and its chemical resistance is similar to or generally better than that of PVC. CPVC has a maximum service temperature of 210o F and has proven to be an excellent material for handling hot corrosive liquids. CPVC is also used in hot and cold water service and similar applications above the temperature range of PVC. CPVC is joined by solvent cementing, threading, or flanging.

PE: Polyethylene (PE) is the second most widely used thermoplastic piping material. PE is classified into three types. Type I PE has a low density, is relatively soft and flexible, and has low heat resistance. Type II PE has a medium density, is slightly harder, is more resistant to higher temperatures and has increased tensile strength. Type III PE is a higher density material offering maximum physical properties. Type III PE is also referred to as HDPE or high density polyethylene. Due to its toughness and superior physical properties, Type III PE is the preferred piping material. PE piping is most frequently used in gas and water distribution systems.

When it comes to selecting the proper industrial thermoplastic piping system for your application, the experts at W.P. Law, Inc. can help guide you to the right match for your project.

Visit www.wplawinc.com/corporate-contact.

3 Common Questions about Sewage Lift Pump Stations

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Did you ever wonder how sewage lift pump stations work?

Water treatment and sewage lift pump stations are important parts of having a water system that is healthy and functional. There are many people who have challenging questions regarding these special applications and here are some of the most common.

1. What information should about my application should I collect before selecting a pump for my system? Pumps are a highly engineered product and selecting the proper pump for an application requires some specific information. First of all it is important to understand what kind of liquid you will be pumping. Information such as Specific Gravity, percent solids, spherical diameter of these solids and the temperature of the fluid are all critical pieces of information. You will also need to know the position of the pump in relation to the fluid, the elevation from the pump to the discharge point, the flow rate requirement in gallons per minute (gpm) and the pressure requirement in pounds per square inch (psi). In addition to these items you will need to know what electrical power is available in terms of voltage and phase.

2. What is the difference between a centrifugal pump and a trash pump? In reality they are both types of centrifugal pumps, however the trash style is created with a volute and an impeller that will allow the passage of large predetermined sized solids.

3. When sizing a pump is bigger always better? The short answer in no. A pump that is oversized for an application will typically not operate at the pump’s best efficiency point (BEP). Not only does this lower efficiency consume more power, but operating a pump near the ends of the pump curve will shorten the life of the pump motor and could potentially cause the motor to burn up.

Like any industry there are a lot of questions you may find yourself asking and it is challenging to find a good solid resource who can properly help you. The experts at W.P. Law, Inc. can help. They have a team of knowledgeable staff that can guide you through any problem or question you have about sewage lift pump stations.

Visit www.wplawinc.com/corporate-contact.

How Does It Work? Sewage Pump Stations Help Keep Our Water Supply Clean

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Sewage pump stations maintain a clean world.

You may not have thought about this before, but sewage pump stations are largely to be credited for your quality of life. One of the greatest parts about the world we live in today is the fact that we can have clean water.

The remarkable ingenuity that the generations of people before us have worked to establish has given us a world where we can live without fear of disease and other contaminants. But what does it take to get there? How is it that sewage pump stations work and mange to take some of the most disgusting water imaginable and turn it back into something clean and safe?

Sewage pump stations play an important role in achieving this amazing accomplishment. Water from these stations is pumped to treatment plants where it is cleaned and purified. The treatment of the water takes three processes.

1. First the solids and oils are removed from the water.
2. Next the water is moved to where all biological matter is removed.
3. Finally the water is disinfected.

Once the water has completed all of these the water is pumped back out into the natural places from where it originally came, such as lakes and rivers.

For more information about how sewage pump stations work visit the water treatment specialists at W.P. Law, Inc. who are available to answer your questions.

Visit www.wplawinc.com/corporate-contact.

3 Ways Pump Stations Help Communities

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 04:00:00 GMT

Pump stations make the world go ‘round.

Pump stations are one of the major marvels of the modern world. While we take it for granted, the water system that we utilize and the treatment we can give to waste water is unprecedented in history. Our ability to ensure a relatively consistent level of clean and safe water is remarkable in comparison to past generations and less fortunate areas of the world.

Pump stations play an important part of this process. In addition to adding functionality and ease to our lives, the following are some of the main ways pump stations help communities.

1. Drinking water: Without working pump stations our communities would not have clean water.

2. Living Conditions: Pump stations help to keep our environment safe and clean. If it wasn’t for the wastewater being diverted away from homes, schools, businesses, and offices, our world would be a much different place than it is today.

3. Preventing Illness: Right now you rarely have to worry about diseases that are typically associated with contaminated water, but without pump stations, you would be exposed to harmful substances.

During the separation period of the purification process water travels through the plant and is processed. When this occurs it is released back into natural water systems where it can benefit communities.

If you have further questions about pump stations let W.P. Law, Inc.’s trained and certified experts assist you with any of your pump station needs.

Visit www.wplawinc.com/corporate-contact.

Understanding Irrigation System Parts

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Irrigation system – putting all the pieces together.

An irrigation system is a valuable part of your landscape. Plants, flowers, and lawns need water to thrive; installing an automatic irrigation system will not only help keep your landscape looking great, but will add value to your property.

Understanding your irrigation system parts and what they do is an important part in installing and maintaining your irrigation system. To help you understand your irrigation system, here is a list of the major components and their function.

Irrigation Controller: The irrigation controller is a programmable device that is connected to the control valves. The irrigation controller turns the valves on and off based on the programmed days and times.

Control valves: The water in the irrigation system is regulated by the control valves. When the system is turned on either manually or automatically by the timer, the control valves allow water to move from the water source to the sprinkler heads.

PVC Piping: PVC pipes are buried underground and provide the conduit for the water to flow through to the sprinkler heads.

Sprinkler Heads: The sprinkler heads disperse the water to the lawn. There are several types of heads available depending on your particular needs.

For quality irrigation systems and supplies, visit the irrigation experts at W.P. Law, Inc.

Book by our founder available now!

Fri, 07 Sep 2012 13:06:00 GMT

IT’S FINALLY HERE!!

The long-anticipated Lies My Daddy Wrote is now available! The letters of Bill Law from World War II, saved by his wife, Dot, along with commentary as to what he and his fellow soldiers were really doing while the letters were being written. Bill Law was not only a soldier and husband, but also a humorist, a documentarian of camp life, a travel writer, and a commentator on life in general. The book is available in .pdf version online HERE, the website of the company he founded. The N.Y. Times and the Pulitzer committee may reach the author via the ‘Contact Us’ tab on the website. More of his, and Dot’s, writings will be posted in the near future.

Irrigation Backflow Preventer - Stop dirty backflow from contaminating your drinking water

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Install an irrigation backflow preventer to help keep your potable water clean andclear of contaminants.

If you have a sprinkler system that is connected to your potable water, you need to have an irrigation backflow preventer. The backflow preventer stops contaminants such as fertilizers, manures, and pesticides from backing up into your drinking water. Without one, you risk exposing yourself and your family to serious health risks.

If your sprinkler system was improperly installed or you experience a sudden drop in water pressure, water containing pesticides, fertilizer, or pet waste can be pulled into your potable water and contaminate it. An irrigation backflow preventer will protect your water in the event this occurs.

There are many types of backflow preventers and codes vary by locations so you should consult an irrigation specialist to determine which type is right for you. Many states require backflow preventers be installed with sprinkler systems. Check with your city for your local requirements.

It is necessary to drain your backflow preventer before the freezing temperatures arrive to prevent damage to your system. To protect your system, you should take the necessary steps to winterize your entire irrigation system.

For all of your irrigation supply needs, contact the irrigation specialists at W.P. Law, Inc.

Indoor Commercial Fountains

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Indoor commercial fountains turn a dreary office building into an elegant one.

Waiting in a cold and dreary waiting room to see a physician, accountant or lawyer is one of the most uncomfortable experiences. Whether your clients are waiting to find out the results of a test, or waiting to find out just how much you owe Uncle Sam anxiously sitting and waiting in a drab office is unpleasant.

To help make the wait more pleasant and comfortable, install indoor commercial fountains to help soothe and relax your clients while they are waiting to see you. The sound of trickling water has been proven to relax and calm people, so they are less likely to be tense and uptight before their appointment.

The sound of water running will also help to drown out the sound of other office noises. This can help prevent confidential conversations being overhead that will greatly protect patient and client confidentiality.

There are a variety of indoor fountains available, from tabletop models to large fountains for your wall or floor, the options are endless. Your clients or patients will thank you.

Contact the experts at W.P. Law, Inc. for more information about installing indoor commercial fountains in your office building.

Wastewater Pump Stations - Cleaning our Nation's water supply

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Wastewater pump stations – Where does it go when you flush?

Have you ever wondered what actually happens when you flush your toilets? Where does all that waste go?

Your community has an entire system of underground pipes that carry the waste water away from your home and into a waste water treatment facility. Waste water pump stations are used to transfer this waste water to treatment facilities. They play a vital role in removing the waste from our country’s water supply.

Once the waste water arrives at the treatment facility, the water is moved into a large tank where the solid materials drop to the bottom and the oil is removed. The water is then pumped into another tank where it is cleaned and any bacterial material is removed. The final step is to sanitize and purify the water.

At the end of this process, the water is pumped into local waterways such as canals, lakes and other large bodies of water. It is then pumped back into our communities. Without the valuable wastewater pump stations, we risk running out of clean water for our daily use.

For more information about wastewater pump stations and the value they bring to our communities contact W. P. Law, Inc

Pump Stations - A basic guide

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 04:00:00 GMT

How do pump stations move our country’s water supply?

Pump stations are used in many different applications to transfer water from one area to another. Pump stations are used to supply fresh drinking water to your home, to supply farmers with irrigation, and to transfer sewage to treatment plants for processing. Pump stations also have many industrial uses as well. Here are two types of pump stations:

Irrigation Pump Stations: Irrigation pump stations are used to pump water from large bodies of water and deliver it to specific areas where it is needed. Farmers use pump stations to irrigate their crops and provide water for their animals. They are also used to remove flood waters from low lying areas.

Sewage Pump Stations: Sewage pump stations are used to move waste water from the community and transfer it to a treatment facility. Once the waste water arrives at the treatment facility it is cleaned and purified and then routed back into the rivers and canals.

Pump stations play a vital role in the use and conservation of our most precious natural resource. For more information about pump stations contact the experts at W. P. Law, Inc.

Automatic Watering System for Plants - How to save time & money

Mon, 04 Jun 2012 19:36:00 GMT

An automatic watering system takes one more project off of your to-do list.

Your home is where your heart is and you want to make it as beautiful, comfortable and efficient as possible for you and your family. While a lot of hard work goes in to the routine maintenance and care for your home, the hard work you put into it pays off. You’ve created a haven for your family where comfort and safety are a priority.

With so many tasks to do in keeping your home comfortable and functioning well, your landscaping can sometimes be overlooked. Now that summer is here, it’s time to get your lawn and gardens in top shape so that you and your family can enjoy them.

Constant watering of your plants and lawn during the spring and summer months can sometimes feel overwhelming. Installing an automatic watering system will help resolve that problem. Automatic watering systems will do the watering for you while saving you time and money. No more worries about dragging hoses from one spot to another or forgetting to water. With the system set to water at the optimal time of day and for the required period of time, you will conserve water and save money.

The irrigation specialists at W. P. Law, Inc. will design the perfect automatic watering system to fit your needs and your budget. Contact us today.

Water Pump Stations - FAQ's

Mon, 07 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Water pump stations play a vital role in bringing clean water to your home and community.

Water pump stations are used to transfer water through a series of pipes into your home and community. They play an important role in delivering clean, fresh water to your tap and providing for your irrigation needs.

Here are four frequently asked questions:

• What is a water pump station?
Water Pump stations are used to transfer water from one place to another. While transporting water isn’t something most people think about, water pump stations, provide many of our creature comforts.

• What is the role of pump stations in farming?
Farms use water pump stations to transfer water for crop irrigation and providing water for livestock. Water is typically pumped from rivers and ponds through a series of pipes and canals.

• How are water pump stations run on powered?
Most water pump stations are powered by electricity. Although many municipalities and farmers have back-up water pumping stations that are powered by diesel engines in case of a power outage.

• Are pump stations used to remove water?
Yes, in low lying areas pump stations are used to remove flood water.

To learn more about water pump stations and the importance they play in your community contact W.P. Law