FAQ for control valves

Frequently asked questions about control valve performance, selection and applications

Can AVK control valves be connected to SCADA systems?

Yes. AVK offers control valves prepared for SCADA integration, such as the pressure reducing control valve with electrical actuator. 

What should I do if there is a risk of cavitation?

Series 859 can be ordered with anti-cavitation trim, or you can install valves in series. An anti-cavitation trim “moves” the cavitation to where it does not cause damage. 

What is the typical pressure loss across an AVK control valve?

A correctly sized AVK control valve typically results in a pressure loss of approximately 0.3 bar. 

What is the advantage of the parabolic plug design?

The parabolic plug ensures highly accurate regulation and stability at low flows. It also reduces noise and vibration, supporting improved network performance. 

What is the advantage of adjusting the regulating speed?

Adjusting the regulating speed helps eliminate fluctuations in sensitive networks and prevent water hammer and surge problems. Adjustments are easily made on the distribution block using standard tools.

My control valve opens or closes too fast or too slowly – what should I do?

You can adjust the opening or closing speed directly on the distribution block using standard tools. 

Can I use control valves where differential pressure is high?

Yes. For differential pressures above the allowed level (per cavitation guidelines), AVK recommends using anti cavitation trim or installing valves in series. 

Can an AVK control valve maintain a constant flow?

Yes. AVK constant flow valves maintain flow with high accuracy regardless of pressure changes in the network. Common applications include reservoir inlets and outlet flows into distribution networks.

 

Selecting and configuring the right AVK control valve

What information is needed to select the correct control valve?

To determine the correct valve type and size, information about maximum and minimum flow, continuous flow, maximum and minimum inlet pressure, required pressure and pipe size is needed.

Which pressure ranges are available for AVK pressure reducing valves?

Available ranges: 0.6–6 bar, 5–11 bar and 10–16 bar. Springs can be changed on site without removing the valve. Furthermore, AVK offers valves dedicated for low pressure applications in the range of 0.1-1 bar.

Which pressure ranges are available for AVK pressure sustaining valves?

Available ranges: 1.5–6 bar, 5–10 bar and 10–16 bar. Springs can be changed on site without removing the valve. Furthermore, AVK offers valves dedicated for low pressure applications in the range of 0.3-1.5 bar.

Can I order an AVK control valve with a pressure range from 0 to 16 bar?

No. To ensure precise regulation, AVK uses dedicated springs for narrower pressure ranges that match the intended operating window. 

Can an AVK control valve be modified for another application?

Yes. Thanks to the modular pilot system, AVK control valves are easy to alter for other or multiple applications without replacing the valve. A leakage test is recommended after modifications. 

Is it possible to install a PRV controller on an AVK series 859 pressure reducing valve?

Yes. A PRV controller can be easily installed directly on AVK series 859 pressure reducing valves. Soon we will release our new Equilo System with PRV controller.

Can I install solenoid override on a standard pressure reducing or pressure sustaining valve?

Yes. Series 859 pressure reducing or pressure sustaining valves can easily be upgraded with solenoid override. 
Product manager at AVK for the control valves segment, Martin Boesting

Do you need expert assistance?

Contact Team leader and product manager, Martin Børsting by following the link below.

 

Installation, operation and maintenance of AVK control valves

Too high pressure up to 22 hours a day is quite common - pressure management can lower the pressure and reduce water loss

Insights

Advantages of pressure management in the supply network

Controlling and regulating the pressure in the water supply network can provide savings on resources as well as reduce the level of non-revenue water. Pressure management is considered the single most beneficial and cost-effective leakage management activity.
Video explaining how a constant flow valve function - thumbnail

Video

How does an AVK constant flow valve work.

Case

Large-scale project for efficient water supply management leads to million dollar savings

Georgian Water and Power has chosen AVK International to supply more than 500 pressure reducing valves to significantly improve and efficiently manage their water supply.
Read about the case
Installation in well in Strømmen, Randers, Denmark

First section well installed in large pressure management project

Read about the case
LEAKman testing and installation

A future with minimised water loss

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Video animation showing the features of control valves - thumbnail

ANIMATION

Control valves

Features and function of our control valves series 859.