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The mechanical component of an atmospheric vacuum breaker serves as an air-inlet valve and a ____?

  1. Check valve

  2. Regulating valve

  3. Relief valve

  4. Shut-off valve

The correct answer is: Check valve

The mechanical component of an atmospheric vacuum breaker plays a crucial role in preventing backsiphonage, which is a type of backflow. In this context, the device functions as both an air-inlet valve and a check valve. The air-inlet valve allows air to enter the system when a negative pressure occurs, which helps to break the vacuum and stops the potential for backflow. Simultaneously, the check valve component ensures that water does not flow backward into the potable water supply, maintaining the integrity of the water system. This dual functionality is essential for the proper operation of backflow prevention mechanisms. Understanding that the atmospheric vacuum breaker must allow air in while preventing water from escaping underscores the importance of its check valve role. This design is specifically intended to meet health and safety standards by ensuring that contaminants do not cross into the safe drinking water supply.