Home > Obsidian Rain Architectural Shower Systems
BathSelect Obsidian Rain Shower Systems – Engineering Specification and Design Requirements
Shower Systems | Rainfall Engineering | Thermostatic & Pressure Balance | Commercial Grade

BathSelect Obsidian Rain Shower Systems: Engineering Design, Rainfall Performance, and Specification Requirements

BathSelect Obsidian Rain shower systems are engineered to deliver uniform rainfall distribution, operational stability, and installation durability through precision-engineered hydraulics and advanced valve control systems for hospitality, commercial facilities, and luxury residential applications.

Systems integrate:

  • • Precision-engineered rainfall shower heads (1.8–2.0 GPM)
  • • Thermostatic and pressure balance valve options
  • • Solid brass construction for commercial durability
  • • Multi-function configurations with hand shower coordination
  • • Full CAD, BIM, and specification documentation
ASSE 1016 Certified ADA Compliant Options WaterSense Available Solid Brass Construction ±1°F Temperature Stability Rainfall Distribution Engineering
BathSelect Obsidian Rain Shower System Engineering Diagram Rainfall distribution engineering diagram

RAINFALL ENGINEERING: Obsidian Rain precision nozzle array showing uniform water distribution pattern and hydraulic performance characteristics.

Rainfall Engineering and Hydraulic Performance

Rainfall Distribution Engineering

Obsidian Rain systems utilize precision-engineered nozzle arrays designed to deliver uniform water distribution across the entire shower head surface. Engineered for consistent droplet coverage at 1.8–2.0 GPM flow rates. Self-cleaning nozzles prevent mineral buildup and maintain performance over time.

Thermostatic vs. Pressure Balance Options

Thermostatic valves: Maintain ±1°F temperature stability under pressure fluctuations. ASSE 1016 certified with anti-scald protection.
Pressure balance valves: Maintain temperature stability during simultaneous fixture use. Ideal for multi-outlet commercial installations.

Commercial Pressure Compatibility

Engineered to operate optimally between 45 psi – 80 psi dynamic pressure. Supports multi-fixture simultaneous operation in hospitality, commercial buildings, and healthcare facilities. Minimum operating pressure: 30 psi; maximum: 100 psi.

Engineering Diagrams & Technical Visuals
Rainfall distribution pattern diagram
Fig 1: Rainfall distribution pattern showing uniform water coverage across 8", 10", and 12" shower heads.
Thermostatic valve internal diagram
Fig 2: Thermostatic valve cross-section showing hot/cold inlets, mixing chamber, and temperature sensing element.
Rough-in dimensional diagram
Fig 3: Rough-in dimensions for wall-mount and ceiling-mount configurations.

Engineering Design Considerations for Hospitality and Commercial Environments

System Configuration Planning

  • Wall-mounted systems: Standard installation with concealed valve integration. Verify rough-in dimensions: 1/2" connections, valve centers based on configuration.
  • Ceiling-mounted systems: Overhead rainfall delivery for architectural shower environments. Requires ceiling reinforcement and access for service.
  • Multi-function systems: Includes rainfall head and hand shower coordination with diverter controls. Coordinate wall reinforcement for hand shower brackets.
  • Concealed valve systems: Valves hidden behind wall, only trim visible. Minimum wall depth: 3.5". Provide access panels for service.

Hydraulic Balancing for Multi-Outlet Systems

  • Flow Rate Coordination: Ensure total demand does not exceed valve capacity. Typical configurations: rainfall (1.8–2.0 GPM) + hand shower (1.5 GPM) = 3.3–3.5 GPM total.
  • Pressure Drop Analysis: Verify pressure drop across system at design flow rates. Obsidian Rain valves engineered for <3 psi drop at rated flow.
  • Temperature Stability: Thermostatic valves maintain set temperature ±1°F regardless of outlet sequencing.

Materials and Construction Engineering

Solid Brass Construction

Precision-machined solid brass shower heads and valve bodies (ASTM B283) ensure structural integrity and corrosion resistance. Dezincification-resistant brass (DZR) available for aggressive water conditions. Compliant with NSF 61 for potable water.

Ceramic Disc Cartridges

Engineered for 500,000+ cycles, smooth operation, and drip-free performance. Replaceable without removing valve body. Compatible with both thermostatic and pressure-balance configurations.

PVD and Multi-Layer Finishes

Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) and multi-layer finishes (brushed, matte, polished) provide superior abrasion and chemical resistance. Available in Brushed Nickel, Matte Black, Polished Chrome, Brushed Gold. Tested to ASTM B368 (500+ hours salt spray).

Rainfall Nozzle Engineering

Self-cleaning silicone nozzles prevent mineral buildup and ensure consistent performance over time. Engineered for uniform droplet distribution at 1.8–2.0 GPM flow rates. Easy to clean and maintain.

Elastomers and Seals

High-temperature EPDM and PTFE seals ensure long-term reliability in hot water applications (max 180°F). Chlorine-resistant formulations for commercial environments.

Check Valves and Backflow Prevention

Integrated check valves on hot and cold inlets prevent crossflow and ensure compliance with plumbing codes. ASSE 1016 certified backflow protection where applicable.

Code Compliance and Engineering Standards

Thermostatic Valve Standard ASSE 1016 – Performance Requirements for Automatic Compensating Valves. Certified for temperature control and anti-scald protection (thermostatic models).
Plumbing Fittings Standard ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1 – Plumbing Supply Fittings. Certified for materials, performance, and durability.
Accessibility ADA 2010 Standards where applicable. Consult specific trim configurations for compliance.
Water Efficiency WaterSense compatible configurations available (1.5 GPM hand showers, 1.8 GPM rainfall heads). CALGreen compliance where adopted.
Materials Safety NSF 61 – Drinking Water System Components. Certified for potable water contact.
Backflow Prevention Integrated check valves on all inlets where applicable. Meets plumbing code requirements for crossflow prevention.
AEC Documentation CAD, BIM, cut sheets, submittals, and installation manuals included. All documentation available at BathSelect Technical Library.

Primary Engineering References

ASSE 1016 ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1 NSF 61 ADA 2010 WaterSense CALGreen ASTM B283 ASTM B368

System Integration and Building Coordination

Rough-In Coordination

  • Wall-mounted systems: Standard 1/2" NPT connections. Valve centers based on configuration. Verify rough-in dimensions from technical data sheets.
  • Ceiling-mounted systems: Coordinate ceiling reinforcement for overhead units. Access panel required for service.
  • Concealed valve systems: Rough-in valve bodies must be installed before wall finish. Minimum wall depth: 3.5". Provide access panels.
  • Multi-function systems: Coordinate diverter controls and hand shower bracket mounting with wall reinforcement.

BMS Integration and Smart Controls

  • Digital interfaces: Optional digital thermostatic controls with temperature display and preset programming available on select models.
  • Building Management Systems (BMS): Compatible with select thermostatic models for remote monitoring.
  • Leak detection: Optional moisture sensors with automatic shut-off integration available.
  • Water efficiency monitoring: Flow data output available for sustainability reporting on select models.

Technical Specifications – Obsidian Rain Shower Systems

Valve Type Thermostatic (ASSE 1016 certified) and Pressure Balance options available.
Temperature Control Thermostatic: ±1°F stability under varying pressure. Adjustable maximum temperature limit (default 120°F/49°C). Anti-scald protection with automatic shut-off. Pressure balance: maintains temperature during pressure fluctuations.
Flow Rates Rainfall heads: 1.8 GPM (8", 10"), 2.0 GPM (12"). Hand showers: 1.5 GPM, 1.8 GPM. Multi-function systems: up to 3.5 GPM total.
Pressure Requirements Optimal: 45–80 psi dynamic. Minimum: 30 psi. Maximum: 100 psi.
Materials Solid brass shower heads and valve bodies (ASTM B283), stainless steel hoses, ceramic disc cartridges, EPDM/PTFE seals.
Finishes PVD and multi-layer: Brushed Nickel, Matte Black, Polished Chrome, Brushed Gold. Tested to ASTM B368 (500+ hours salt spray).
Connections 1/2" NPT male inlets and outlets. Shower arm threads: standard 1/2" NPT.
Certifications ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1, NSF 61, ADA compliant options, WaterSense available on select models, ASSE 1016 for thermostatic models.
Warranty Limited lifetime (residential), 5-year limited (commercial).

Obsidian Rain Specification Checklist

Codes & Standards

  • ☐ ASSE 1016 (thermostatic models)
  • ☐ ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1
  • ☐ NSF 61 materials
  • ☐ ADA compliance (if required)
  • ☐ WaterSense flow rates
  • ☐ CALGreen (if adopted)

Hydraulic Design

  • ☐ Flow rate calculations
  • ☐ Pressure drop verification
  • ☐ Rainfall distribution pattern
  • ☐ Temperature stability (±1°F)
  • ☐ Anti-scald protection
  • ☐ Crossflow prevention

Installation

  • ☐ Rough-in dimensions verified
  • ☐ Wall/ceiling reinforcement coordinated
  • ☐ Access panel locations
  • ☐ Connection types (1/2" NPT)
  • ☐ Water pressure confirmed
  • ☐ Service access planned

Obsidian Rain System Components and Models (19 Total)

The following 19 models represent the complete engineered system components supporting Obsidian Rain installations. Each component is engineered for integration into complete shower systems.

BOR-1000 – 8" Rainfall Shower Head

1.8 GPM, solid brass, wall or ceiling mount. Self-cleaning nozzles. Available in all finishes.

BOR-1001 – 10" Rainfall Shower Head

1.8 GPM, solid brass, wall or ceiling mount. Self-cleaning nozzles. Available in all finishes.

BOR-1002 – 12" Rainfall Shower Head

2.0 GPM, solid brass, wall or ceiling mount. Self-cleaning nozzles. Available in all finishes.

BOR-1003 – Thermostatic Shower Valve

1/2" connections, integrated volume control, ASSE 1016 certified. Available in all finishes.

BOR-1004 – Pressure Balance Valve

1/2" connections, commercial grade. Maintains temperature during pressure fluctuations.

BOR-1005 – Wall-Mount Shower Arm

12" projection, solid brass. Available in all finishes.

BOR-1006 – Ceiling-Mount Arm

Adjustable drop 6-12", solid brass. Available in all finishes.

BOR-1007 – Hand Shower Set

With 60" stainless steel hose, multiple spray modes. Available in all finishes.

BOR-1008 – Diverter Trim

For multi-function systems. Available in all finishes.

BOR-1009 – Complete Shower System

10" rainfall head + hand shower. Includes thermostatic or pressure balance valve option.

BOR-1010 – Multi-Function System

With thermostatic valve, rainfall head, hand shower. Available in all finishes.

BOR-1011 – Shower Panel System

With body sprays, rainfall head, hand shower. Complete spa experience.

BOR-1012 – Slide Bar Set

Adjustable 24" bar with hand shower, wall mount. Available in all finishes.

BOR-1013 – Rough-In Valve

For multi-port concealed systems. Accepts up to 6 outlets.

BOR-1014 – Volume Control Trim

Metal lever volume control trim. Available in all finishes.

BOR-1015 – Temperature Trim

For thermostatic valves. Includes adjustable limit stop. Available in all finishes.

BOR-1016 – Shower Hose

60" stainless steel shower hose, corrosion-resistant. 304 stainless steel construction.

BOR-1017 – Shower Bracket

Wall mount adjustable shower bracket, solid brass. Tilts for directional adjustment.

BOR-1018 – Escutcheon Plate

7" diameter escutcheon plate for concealed installations. Covers rough-in openings.

📦
Digital Resources & Technical Documentation

Where can I download BIM/CAD and manuals?

Access the BIM Library, Manuals, and Installation Help Videos for training and submittals. All resources are available through official BathSelect channels.

📐

BIM / CAD Library

Download Revit families, CAD blocks (DWG/DXF), and 3D models for all BathSelect products. Compatible with major AEC software platforms.

RFA / DWG / DXF
Browse BIM Library

Navigate to Support → BIM/CAD Downloads

📘

Installation Manuals (PDF)

Step-by-step installation instructions, rough-in diagrams, and technical specifications for all BathSelect products.

PDF
Browse Manuals

Navigate to Support → Manuals & Documentation

🎥

Installation Help Videos

Visual step-by-step guides for product installation, maintenance tips, and troubleshooting tutorials.

MP4 / YouTube
Watch Videos

Direct link to video library

AEC Resources and Specification Support

Project Coordination

For project-specific submittals, contact specification support with your valve type, finish, and flow requirements. We can provide consolidated documentation packages aligned with your naming conventions and project specifications.

Specification Support: [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions: Engineering & Specification

What are the pressure requirements for Obsidian Rain shower systems?

+

Obsidian Rain shower systems are engineered to operate optimally between 45–80 psi dynamic pressure. Minimum operating pressure is 30 psi, maximum is 100 psi. For commercial applications with multiple simultaneous outlets, verify supply capacity meets total flow requirements (typically 3.5 GPM for rainfall + hand shower combinations).

Are Obsidian Rain shower systems ASSE 1016 certified?

+

Yes. All thermostatic valve models (BOR-1003) are ASSE 1016 certified for temperature control and anti-scald protection. Pressure balance models maintain temperature stability during pressure fluctuations but are not ASSE 1016 certified. Refer to individual specification sheets for certification details.

What is the difference between thermostatic and pressure balance valves?

+

Thermostatic valves maintain a set temperature (±1°F) regardless of pressure fluctuations in hot or cold supply lines. They include anti-scald protection and ASSE 1016 certification.
Pressure balance valves maintain temperature by balancing hot and cold pressures during simultaneous use (e.g., toilet flush). They do not compensate for temperature changes in supply water. Choose thermostatic for maximum safety and precision, pressure balance for cost-effective multi-outlet applications.

What finishes are available and how durable are they?

+

Obsidian Rain systems are available in Brushed Nickel, Matte Black, Polished Chrome, and Brushed Gold. Finishes utilize Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) technology for maximum durability, tested to ASTM B368 (500+ hours salt spray resistance). All finishes are corrosion-resistant and suitable for commercial and residential environments.

Can I use Obsidian Rain components with existing plumbing?

+

Yes. All components use standard 1/2" NPT connections compatible with US plumbing standards. For retrofit applications, ensure existing supply lines can deliver required flow rates and pressure. Wall-mount arms fit standard shower outlets. For concealed valve installations, verify rough-in dimensions match existing rough openings.

Where can I download CAD, BIM, and installation manuals?

+

All technical documentation is available through the BathSelect BIM/CAD Library and Installation Manuals pages. For project-specific submittal packages, contact [email protected] with your model numbers and requirements.

BathSelect offer our premier selection of hotel vanities specifically designed for the hospitality industry. As your trusted hospitality bathroom vanity supplier, we provide high-quality and stylish vanities that will elevate the look and functionality of your hotel bathrooms. Explore our best hotel vanity options and discover the following features and benefits

Quality Construction
Our hotel vanities are meticulously crafted using premium materials to ensure durability and long-lasting performance. We prioritize the use of sturdy materials such as solid wood, MDF, or high-quality engineered wood, providing a reliable and robust foundation for your hotel bathroom design.

We're available to provide assistance and support for your inquires!

Featured

categories
About Us
Hydro Whirlpool Bathtubs
View more
About Us
Kitchen faucets
View more
About Us
Motion Touchless Sensor Faucets
View more

Our Distinguished Clientele

Valued

We're proud of our extensive clientele, a testament to our quality products and service