Final answer:
Air chambers or shock absorbers are needed in plumbing systems to prevent water hammer, which is a loud, banging noise caused by the sudden stopping of water flow. Air chambers work by absorbing and cushioning the shockwave created by the sudden change in water flow. They need to be properly installed and sized at key areas in the plumbing system.
Step-by-step explanation:
Air-filled tubes near water faucets in plumbing systems are referred to as air chambers or shock absorbers. They are needed to prevent water hammer, which is a loud, banging noise that occurs when water flow abruptly stops. When water flows through the pipes and suddenly stops, the kinetic energy of the moving water is converted into pressure energy, causing a shockwave to travel through the pipes. Air chambers are installed to absorb this shockwave and prevent the pipes from banging.
The working principle behind air chambers is simple. The air inside the chamber compresses when the water flow is suddenly stopped. This compression of air acts as a cushion, absorbing the kinetic energy of the moving water and preventing it from creating a shockwave. The compressed air slowly releases back into the pipe, normalizing the pressure and preventing any disruptive noise.
It's important to note that air chambers need to be properly sized and placed throughout the plumbing system to be effective. They should be installed at areas where quick changes in water flow occur, such as near fixtures or valves.