Water & Wastewater Treatment Magazine
Issue link: https://fhpublishing.uberflip.com/i/1083348
ADVERTISMENT FEATURE AVK NEEDLE VALVES DELIVER PRECISION FLOW CONTROL IN WATER, IRRIGATION AND INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS In 2018 leading valve and fitting manufacturer, AVK UK, further strengthened its valve portfolio by introducing the broadest range of needle valves available in the UK. Ranging in size from DN80 to DN2000 and with pressure ratings up to PN100, engineers will be able to select an AVK Series 872 needle valve for their specific application. Needle valves, sometimes referred to as plunger valves, enable engineers to finely control flows. This precision is achieved through the fine movement on the needle/ plunger which enables the gearbox to open or close the internal sleeve in small and accurate increments to the desired position. Alternative control valves used to control flows include plug valves and globe valves, however, none of these options match the performance of the AVK needle valve range, when very precise control is needed. AVK needle valves require very low operating torques as they are always in hydraulic balance i.e. there are equal and opposite forces at play internally at all valve positions. This feature significantly reduces actuator and gearbox costs. AVK needle valves could effectively be referred to as 'maintenance free'. Depending on operating conditions, after extensive use over many years, the guide strips through which the needle passes may possibly show signs of wear. The AVK design allows these guide strips to be removed and replaced thereby extending the longevity of the valve. In alternative designs where the guide strips are welded in position the likelihood is that the whole valve will need to be removed and replaced at a considerably higher cost. Note: To date no AVK needle valve has yet had its guide strips replaced which is a testament to the quality of the design and manufacturing. The needle valve is manufactured by AVK's Italian subsidiary (ACMO). According to Greg Morris, Technical Manager, it is the combination of product quality and customer support that makes the needle valve range attractive to engineers: 'We actively encourage customers and prospects to take advantage of our technical know-how and practical experience when specifying needle valves. We can advise on the size of valve needed as well as whether any of the optional extras, such as anti-cavitation devices, are required. As an example, the engineer can also add an electrical actuator to the valve to enable it to function automatically as a self- regulating device.' You can download the Series 872 needle valve datasheet and product information from www.avkuk.co.uk. Search 'needle valve or 872 on the product finder page '. https://www.avkuk.co.uk/en- gb/product-finder/pressure- and-flow-control-valves/pl-ne- valv/872-00-001 20 | MARCH 2019 | WWT | www.wwtonline.co.uk