To support the modernisation and extension of the wastewater network in the district of Saint-André-Treize-Voies (Montréverd), the Terres de Montaigu urban community opted to replace its ageing lagoon-based treatment facility – no longer adequate in terms of capacity – with a more compact and efficient phyto‑purification plant.
In this context, Noria Conception Hydraulique was appointed as works contractor, entrusted with the installation, commissioning and oversight of a complete set of AVK knife gate valves.
A renewal project driven by automation
The aim of the project was to substitute the former station with a more compact solution based on a reed bed filtration process (French constructed wetlands), recognised for its environmental performance. The chosen configuration features two filtration stages, divided into 9 and 6 separate beds. This concentrated layout requires frequent switching between basins – typically performed manually – which is essential for effective filter aeration.
Given the scale of the infrastructure, Noria Conception Hydraulique proposed a fully automated system to the customer Terres de Montaigu. This decision shaped both the overall design and the choice of equipment, particularly the control valves.
A robust and easily integrated AVK solution
To address the automation needs, Noria Conception Hydraulique recommended AVK pneumatic knife gate valves, selected for their reliability, rapid actuation and robustness.
“Full automation is rare on this type of plant. We proposed this option with pneumatic valves during the tender phase. AVK valves seemed the right fit, both for their performance and ease of integration” explains Cyril COSSAIS, Project Manager at Noria Conception Hydraulique.
A total of 15 AVK knife gate valves (DN200) were supplied through our distribution partner LIBAUD AIZENAY. Installed in a buried concrete chamber weighing more than 25 tons, these pneumatic valves were chosen for their fast operation, reliability and proven long-term durability in wastewater handling, essential attributes for sanitation applications.
Straightforward installation and dependable performance
Cyril COSSAIS from Noria Conception Hydraulique emphasised the efficiency of the installation process:
“It’s a straightforward product – in the best possible way. Simple to install, reliable and requiring only minimal adjustments, mainly end-of-travel settings. A real time-saver.”
Since the commissioning in early March 2025, the station has been operating smoothly.
According to the customer, the installation fully meets expectations:
We wanted a reliable automation system to manage the treatment beds efficiently and avoid additional operating costs. Since the station was commissioned, the operator hasn’t reported any issues. Overall, I’m very satisfied with the installed equipment and how easy it is to use" says Sébastien BOURMAUD, Head of Sanitation for the Terres de Montaigu urban community.
A trusted partnership
Noria Conception Hydraulique has collaborated with AVK France for many years, enabling a seamless project execution. Thanks to their thorough knowledge of our product range, the company was able to propose a tailored technical solution during the bidding stage and support it through to commissioning. Once again, this installation highlights the strength of our partnership and the adaptability of our solutions to real‑world operational needs.
The knife gate valves were manufactured by CYL (an AVK subsidiary based in Spain), a specialised production site dedicated to custom gate valve solutions. This European manufacturing base ensures both responsiveness and consistently high performance.
Further projects are already in progress with Noria Conception Hydraulique, including the delivery of a DN400 motorised gate valve. A partnership that continues to grow.
Learn more about Knife gate valves here.
