Splash Pad System Product

Overview

A splash pad is a ground-level water play facility with zero standing depth, designed for families and young children to enjoy water without a traditional swimming pool. The system is fundamentally a shallow drainage basin with an array of Spray Features (jets, arcs, fog nozzles) connected to a Recirculation Pump that draws water from an underground Drainage System system and circulates it through a Water Treatment loop. The entire circuit recycles water, keeping it clean and reducing consumption.

The Play Surface is a reinforced concrete basin, sloped 1–2 percent toward a central drain. Over the concrete sits a Rubber Mat of EPDM or recycled rubber, 10–20 mm thick, bonded with adhesive. This rubber is soft underfoot and anti-slip, meeting ASTM F1951 safety standards. Embedded in or standing above the rubber are the Spray Features: fixed Ground Jet that shoot straight up, articulating Spray Stand mounts with Arc Spray that throw water in parabolic arcs, and low-flow Fog Nozzle for mist cooling.

Water circulation and treatment

Water drains from the play surface through a Drain Grate into the Underdrain Pipe system—a network of perforated pipes beneath the rubber mat that feed a Sump Tank. This sump stores 500–2000 liters, providing a buffer for recirculation. The Recirculation Pump, driven by a 0.5–3 kW electric Motor, draws water from the sump and pushes it through the Water Treatment assembly at 50–200 L/min.

The Water Treatment system maintains water quality suitable for recirculation. A Sand Filter—a sand cartridge or media tank—removes suspended solids and debris to 20–50 microns, prolonging the life of nozzles and keeping water clear. A Chlorinator maintains 0.5–1.5 ppm free chlorine, meeting public health standards for non-potable water reuse. A [[splash-pad-system-pH-probe]] monitors acidity; the system maintains pH between 6.8–7.6 to prevent corrosion and ensure disinfectant efficacy. A Bypass Valve relieves excess pressure if the Sand Filter becomes clogged.

Treated water then flows through the Piping Network network. A Supply Line carries pressurized water from the pump to a Flow Manifold—a multi-port valve block that distributes flow to different spray zones. Spray can be partitioned into sections activated independently, allowing operational flexibility and water conservation.

Activation and control

The system is triggered by user interaction. Mechanical Activation Bollard posts—stainless steel or plastic pillars mounted around the splash pad—contain push-buttons wired to the Controller Box. Pressing a button sends a signal to a solenoid valve, opening the Flow Manifold and allowing water to flow to that zone's nozzles. Alternatively, Motion Sensor units (PIR infrared detectors) automatically trigger spray when movement is detected, creating a surprise-play element.

The Controller Box is a microcontroller or PLC housed in a weatherproof enclosure. It sequences spray patterns: typically, a Timer Module runs the Motor for 30–60 seconds when activated, then shuts it down for 15–30 seconds (to save energy and water). The Motor Contactor, a heavy-duty relay, switches the three-phase motor on and off. A Power Supply provides 24V DC for sensor inputs and solenoid coils.

Safety design

Safety is paramount. The Play Surface slopes gently (no steep edges) and drains completely within 5–15 minutes, so water never pools deeper than 0.3 m. The Anti-Slip Coating, a textured epoxy or polyurethane sealant, provides grip even when wet. The Rubber Mat cushions falls; foam or recycled-rubber play surfaces reduce impact energy. Edge Guard—trim rails of stainless steel or rubber—prevent foot entrapment where the rubber mat meets concrete or fixed structures.

Nozzle placement is designed to avoid dangerous spray heights; ground jets are vertical and low-pressure, preventing eye injury. Bollard buttons are child-accessible and colored for visibility. Supervisory signage guides parents; rescue equipment (floatation rings, first-aid kits) are stationed nearby despite the low water depth.

Installation and maintenance

Installation requires a sloped concrete subgrade, typically 100–200 mm below final finished grade. Drainage piping is buried; the sump tank is positioned at the lowest point, either below ground or in a mechanical room. The rubber layer is bonded with epoxy adhesive and cured for 7 days before use. Electrical work follows local codes; a dedicated circuit with ground-fault protection is mandatory.

Maintenance is monthly: visual inspection of rubber for cracks or separation, testing of Chlorinator levels, and backwashing of the Sand Filter. Annually, [[splash-pad-system-pH-probe]] and Chlorinator sensors should be calibrated, and Flow Manifold solenoid valves should be tested. Winter shutdowns in freezing climates require draining of all exposed piping and blowing out lines with compressed air to prevent freeze damage.

Water consumption is modest: a 200 m² pad running 4 hours a day uses approximately 15,000–20,000 liters per week, offset by the Water Treatment loop's ability to recirculate the same water many times.