Investigation into the performance characteristics of mult–

Previous research at Heriot-Watt University has led to a better understanding of the performance characteristics of siphonic rainwater systems, with particular reference to the priming of such systems. This has resulted in the development of a numerical model capable of accurately simulating the priming phase of single outlet siphonic rainwater systems. However, the majority of installed systems incorporate more than one roof outlet, and the interaction between such outlets is not well understood. It was therefore recognised that further research was required to extend the existing numerical model to multi-outlet applications. The work reported herein details an ongoing UK EPSRC research programme investigating the performance characteristics of multi-outlet siphonic rainwater systems. The experimental aims, apparatus and procedures are described, and preliminary results are illustrated. In addition, “real” data obtained from two installed siphonic rainwater systems are discussed. Conclusions are drawn regarding the performance characteristics of multi-outlet siphonic rainwater systems, and plans for future work are outlined.