Valve Magazine - Summer 2010

selection. Also, an inspection program should be implemented for critical valves, as well as pumps or monitoring equipment that is in the reclaimed water flow. Finally, users should communicate findings of any in-service issues to the manufacturer providing as much information as they can.

Valve Manufacturers

The future of this segment of the valve industry belongs to those that are actively involved already and experiencing its growth. For manufacturers, knowing the customer applications is critical as well as getting feedback on what is successful and what is not in each particular reclaimed water environment. Controlled programs of endurance testing with actual reclaimed water samples are valuable; however, care must be taken to maintain the chemical composition and concentration unless an onsite test can be arranged using the direct supply of the reclaimed water. Accelerated testing methods also are useful to gain insight on factors such as elevated temperatures and higher concentrations. These factors can be considered independently or combined. The testing can be implemented on either independent valve components or with entire valve assemblies—depending on the results desired. Establishing a working relationship with various end users provides an extremely beneficial flow of information and can open up opportunities for controlled in-field testing of new developments. Similarly, treatment plants that are supplying the reclaimed water can be an excellent resource for understanding chemicals currently in use as well as future trends and changes. Such plants also can provide a listing of reclaimed water users—both current and upcoming—as they bring new customers into the distribution.

WHERE TO FROM HERE?

There is no doubt that use of reclaimed water will continue to increase in irrigation applications, as well as in other direct applications. This creates an opportunity for valve manufacturers to come up with new technology. New material development and the cost-effective use of existing materials in new ways are already under study and those who wish to compete will need to keep pace. At the same time, the irrigation valve world is not one that has traditionally been enthusiastic about change—a consistent, durable and reliable design that is easily maintained has taken precedence over the latest potential new product.

However, this may change going forward as the opportunity to breathe new life into this segment of the valve industry is born—an opportunity that could mean drawing from the experiences of other segments of the industry such as nuclear and petroleum applications. What’s more, reclaimed water is an opportunity for industry to be a critical part of protecting, preserving and even improving one of our most precious limited natural resources—the water we need for almost everything in our lives. VM

Turn it on now!

7th Biennial Valve World Conference & Expo
Düsseldorf, Germany
Nov. 30 – Dec. 2, 2010

The Valve World Expo presents continual growth, outstanding innovations and the highest level of technology – now in its new home in Düsseldorf. Valves and the complete range of accessories as well as valve-related technologies are the focus. As the most important event for the industry, the Valve World Conference analyses the future of markets against a backdrop of fascinating developments and scientific evaluations.