Desalination plants present challenging environments for valves , with high temperatures , pressures and corrosion risks . Depending on specific requirements , valve manufacturers may use super duplex type 2507 , lean duplex LDX π www . valve-world . net Valve World November 2024
SMART WATER MANAGEMENT
Valve technology in smart water management
Valve technology is essential for efficient water management and distribution . With only about 0.001 % of earth ’ s water readily available for human use , innovative valve solutions are crucial in addressing water industry challenges .
By James Chater
Frost-proof wastewater pipe on the Kitzsteinhorn , Austria . Two Eigerflex Longline pipes from Brugg Pipes were used at an altitude of up to 3,000 meters between June and October 2023 .
Approximately 2 billion people lack access to clean drinking water , while 46 % of the global population does not have adequate sanitation services . While political and ecological factors affect water availability , valve technology can significantly improve : 1 . Efficiency 2 . Water recycling 3 . Automation and monitoring
Improving efficiency in water management
Modern water treatment plants , including those for wastewater and desalination , are becoming more efficient . Valve manufacturers are developing products that reduce energy consumption , water loss and carbon emissions . The seawater desalination plant at Hassyan , United Arab Emirates ( UAE ), scheduled to begin operations in 2026 , will use advanced valve technology to achieve its energy consumption target of 2.9 kilowatt-hours per cubic metre . This project demonstrates the progress in reverse osmosis ( RO ) plants , which have reduced energy use by 35 % in the past decade .
Valves in water reuse systems
Treated wastewater is used in irrigation and industry , requiring effective valve systems to remove sediment , bacteria and micropollutants . Some regions are now recycling water for drinking purposes , including Namibia , Australia , parts of the United States and Singapore . Valve manufacturers are creating products for water recycling systems that can withstand the corrosive effects of treatment chemicals and provide precise flow control in filtration systems .
Automation and monitoring
Information technology , including artificial intelligence , is improving water management efficiency . Smart valve systems are central to this improvement . When Shenzhen , China , updated its water supply , it installed a control system connecting the main and secondary systems . This system uses valve technology with integrated sensors and actuators for real-time monitoring and control of water flow and pressure . Veolia ’ s KAPTA 3000-AC4 sensors collect data on conductivity , pressure , temperature and chlorine content , using precision valves . These monitoring solutions enable quick information gathering and decision-making , helping to prevent leaks , corrosion , blockages and contamination .
Materials for valves in water applications
The choice of materials for valves in water systems is crucial for ensuring durability , efficiency and safety . Stainless steel , particularly grades 304 ( L ) and 316 ( L ), is standard for many valve applications due to its corrosion resistance . More demanding applications , such as desalination plants and wastewater treatment facilities , often require duplex and super duplex stainless steels . These grades offer greater strength and corrosion resistance , making them suitable for valves handling corrosive or abrasive substances like wastewater or saltwater .
Valves in desalination
Desalination plants present challenging environments for valves , with high temperatures , pressures and corrosion risks . Depending on specific requirements , valve manufacturers may use super duplex type 2507 , lean duplex LDX π www . valve-world . net Valve World November 2024
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