Control valves to optimise the challenged local water infrastructure
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
The water challenges facing South Africa, and Africa as a whole, are multifaceted. They stem from aging infrastructure, affecting both potable water distribution and non-potable pipelines. The use of substandard products without local support exacerbates these issues.
Because little attention is paid towards maintaining existing infrastructure and following the South African Bureau of Standards, issues surface, such as over-pressurising old systems that are designed for a limited flow and pressure requirement.
The consequences include burst pipes and increased leakages during off-peak hours, and little to no flow during peak hours. This, along with ageing infrastructure, causes the loss of potable water, which is already sparse resource. Hence, as valves are critical parts of the water distribution network, they should be of adequate quality to ensure efficient and long-lasting infrastructure going forward.
Battling water loss with control valves
To address the growing infrastructural demands, AVK Southern Africa has introduced its Series 869 dual-stage high/low pressure reducing valve—a reliable and effective solution. The valve enables control of water in a pipeline through maintaining water pressure regardless of changes in the system. It is a dual-stage diaphragm globe-type valve with two downstream pressure settings. The high-pressure setting supplies demand during peak hours which then shifts to a lower pressure setting during off peak periods.
By reducing the pressure, during low system demand, the valve protects the network by decreasing the number of pipe bursts, leakages, and collapses. The valve uses a double pilot system that makes use of an IP68-rated electronic device and a pre-programmed solenoid system to switch over at predetermined times. Hence, should a pipe burst during off-peak hours, the volume of water lost will be less than if the valve was operating at a high pressure.
The valve saves operator’s time by allowing for pre-programming of the high/low pressure setting of times using a remote control with various functionalities. Battery life for the IP68-rated electronic device is around 10 years before a battery replacement is required and no electricity is necessary in the valve’s chambers, meaning load shedding will not affect its operation.
AVK assists with finding the right control valve solution
Our control valves can help mitigate and avoid network failure in pipelines that occur due to air entrapment and water hammer caused by incorrect valve sizing, valve failure, poor design, or simply the implementation of unfit products.
When designing a new system, or extending an existing range, our solutions team assists engineers, consultants, contactors, water boards and end-users by providing cost-effective and ease of operational requirements to ensure that the optimum solution is selected and implemented.
Saving water, time, and resources
The total cost of ownership should be understood and considered when selecting which valve to use for the project in question. Total cost includes product price, maintenance, operation, and man-power costs along with the cost of downtime to the end-user, to allow for a more financially viable valve in the long term.
Our control valve solutions assist in reducing water losses and burst pipes, thereby decreasing both the amount of non-revenue water loss and the downtime of water supply to the customers.
Also, when network equipment is spared from high pressure, the life expectancy of pipeline, valves and additional equipment is increased.
Expect global leadership and local commitment
We are excited to announce that we will be launching a one-day course with comprehensive technical training on the AVK Series 869 control valve for our clients, which encompasses municipalities, water boards, and the mining industry.
Additionally, we have strategic plans to establish an expert assistance team to provide support during field breakdowns at our state-of-the-art training facility, The AVK Academy.
These courses are open to all interested parties, including engineers, consultants, and service teams. Join us to enhance your knowledge and expertise!
In our endeavour, we aim to solidify our local presence and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to South Africa and its future growth. Leveraging our global reach and innovative mindset, we stand poised to provide optimal valve solutions to the water industry.
Three years ago, the Malawi Water Board made a significant investment by acquiring 56 Pressure Reducing Valves (PRVs) and specialty Control Valves 869 featuring low pressure/high pressure and day/night four-sequence settings on a seven-day programmable setup, from AVK Valves Southern Africa through an EPC.
At AVK Valves Southern Africa, we take immense pride in upskilling our international customers with cutting-edge solutions. Our commitment to excellence was recently demonstrated through our support and training for the Malawi Water Board.
Training and Support
The AVK team provided comprehensive instruction on the proper installation, maintenance, and various troubleshooting scenarios for the Control Valve 869. This foundational knowledge was essential for the Malawi Water Board team to understand the technical operational aspects of the valves.
Field Training and Commissioning
The training then transitioned to the field, where the AVK team conducted on-site training, covering maintenance procedures and commissioning (setting) of the Control Valve 869. Hands-on training ensured that the Malawi Water Board team could confidently apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Long-Term Solutions
The AVK team provided a step-by-step guide on identifying and solving common problems, such as ensuring proper water flow through the system and control circuitry. The Malawi Water Board team is now equipped to troubleshoot issues independently, saving time and costs, and significantly reducing the cost of ownership.
Client Satisfaction
The AVK team offered practical solutions to ensure the client was better equipped and more knowledgeable. The client’s gratitude and satisfaction with the level of service and workable solutions provided is a clear reflection of AVK Valves Southern Africa’s commitment to supporting and upskilling our customers, wherever they may be located.
AVK Valves Southern Africa,
+27 (0) 11 908 3760,
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