AMIAD - AUSTRALIA & ASIA PACIFIC NEWS - VOLUME 9 - APRIL 2017 MARCH 2014 Vol.3 | Page 11

The simple action of isolating air valves, first
results in higher and higher energy bills, but in a
worst case scenario can create a life threating
situation.
What causes air valves to leak? Too low system
pressure is usually the culprit, but contaminants
such as pieces of poly swath, cloth and wood, are
common in dewatering projects, as is iron that
precipitates and salt that build ups in saline
dewatering situations. These items catch on or
build up on the rolling seal of a common clean
water type valve, preventing it from sealing
properly. If of the rolling seal type, the valve is
however then is in its “failsafe” mode, still
enabling air to pass through the valve, ensuring
no air blockages and protecting life and property,
but albeit allowing fluid to leak. The valve is able
to be isolated and cleaned, but in some sites
hundreds of valves are installed and the task is
considered tedious and is overlooked.
In saline and hyper saline dewatering systems, it’s
imperative that no fluid leaks to the environment
as this is an EPA requirement. It’s another reason
that air valves are often quickly isolated when
leaking.
To overcome the maintenance issues a