TECH TALK
Case Studies
Camden Wastewater Treatment Plant , USA Challenge : The plant needed to transition from gas chlorine to liquid sodium hypochlorite for disinfection and use sodium bisulfite for dechlorination , requiring a reliable dosing system with a small footprint . Solution : Valmet supplied wall-mounted packaged Flowrox metering pump systems . Key features included :
• Space-efficient design
• Integrated containment for enhanced safety
• Capability to handle off-gassing in sodium hypochlorite service
Outcome : The installation addressed the plant ’ s chemical dosing needs whilst improving safety and reliability . The system ’ s effectiveness led to its specification for a second site .
Some peristaltic pumps , such as those in Valmet ’ s Flowrox LPP series , feature a single roller design that may offer additional benefits :
• Improved Process Performance and Efficiency : Capability to pump 24 / 7 . No overheating at high continuous flow rates due to the roller design that minimizes friction and heat .
• Reduced Friction : This can minimize wear on the hose , potentially extending its lifespan .
• Improved Energy Efficiency : Lower friction may translate to reduced power consumption .
• Reduced Pulsation : Smoother flow characteristics can improve dosing accuracy and reduce pipe stress .
These pumps have proven particularly effective in sludge transfer applications , where their ability to handle high viscosity fluids with suspended solids is valuable .
Pinch Valve Innovations
Pinch valves have emerged as an alternative solution for sludge control and other challenging wastewater applications . The pinch valve ’ s operating principle is straightforward : 1 . flexible , elastomeric sleeve is housed within a robust designed body . 2 . When open , the sleeve provides an unobstructed flow path .
3 . During closing , two pinch bars squeeze the valve sleeve shut on the centre line with various types ( e . g . mechanical , pneumatic or hydraulic ) of actuators .
This design offers several advantages in wastewater treatment :
• Unobstructed Flow : This minimizes pressure drop and reduces the risk of blockages with suspended solids .
• Effective Closure : Achieves reliable shut-off even with abrasive or scaling media present .
• Wear Resistance : Suitable for handling corrosive chemicals and abrasive slurries .
• Simplified Maintenance : The sleeve is typically the primary wear component , which can simplify maintenance procedures .
Some pinch valve designs incorporate additional features :
• Sleeve materials optimized for specific chemical compatibilities
• Positioners for flow control applications
• Diagnostic capabilities for maintenance planning
These valves have demonstrated long service lives in demanding applications , with some installations operating for extended periods without sleeve replacement .
Future Developments in Wastewater Treatment
Several trends are shaping the future of flow control technology in wastewater treatment : 1 . Increased Use of Sensors and Connectivity : This is enabling realtime realtime monitoring and informed maintenance planning .
2 . Focus on Energy Efficiency : Pump and valve designs are being optimized to reduce power consumption without compromising performance .
3 . Emphasis on Chemical Reduction : Control systems are being developed to optimize dosing and minimize chemical usage while maintaining treatment efficacy .
4 . Resource Recovery : Flow control solutions are being adapted to support the extraction of valuable resources from wastewater streams .
Industry suppliers are working to develop solutions that address current challenges and anticipate future needs .
Conclusion
The wastewater treatment industry continues to face challenges in managing complex processes , ensuring environmental compliance and optimizing operational efficiency . Advanced flow control solutions play a crucial role in addressing these challenges . By offering improved accuracy , reliability and efficiency , these technologies enable wastewater treatment plants to meet regulatory requirements while minimizing costs and environmental impact .
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www . valve-world-americas . net • February 2025 | Valve World Americas 23