The WETEX Exhibition is where the hidden parts of networks get the spotlight. While pumps, pipes and meters often take centre stage, it is the small components that keep entire systems safe. 

At this year’s WETEX 2025, we at Dutco Tennant LLC are bringing AVK Air Valves to the Dubai World Trade Centre, Stand 7-H5, from 30 September to 2 October. Visitors will see how one of the most underestimated devices in water and wastewater networks protects pipelines from damage, ensures accuracy in flow, and prevents costly failures.

Why Air Valves Deserve More Attention

Air in a pipeline is never harmless. Trapped pockets can reduce efficiency by up to 30%, forcing pumps to consume more energy and pushing operating costs higher. The result is wasted power, unnecessary wear on equipment, and longer downtimes. By venting air automatically, AVK air valves and other advanced air valves keep pipelines running at full capacity, saving up to 25% in energy and cutting downtime by about 30%.

These air valves for water systems and air valves for wastewater also protect networks from destructive forces. Sudden movement of air pockets can trigger water hammer or vacuum collapse during draining, both of which can rupture pipelines. With the right selection, such as a combination air valve, air release valve, or air and vacuum valve, AVK ensures large volumes of air are released during filling while continuously venting smaller pockets in operation, preventing dangerous surges and maintaining flow stability across pipeline air valves.

Protecting Pipelines from Corrosion and Inaccuracy

Beyond energy and mechanical risks, trapped air increases oxygen exposure inside the pipe, accelerating corrosion. This reduces pipeline lifespan and raises maintenance costs. AVK air valves are designed to fight these risks with corrosion-resistant materials and durable sealing compounds.

How AVK combats corrosion:

  • Stainless steel internal parts for long service life
  • WRAS-approved EPDM rubber seals with shape recovery ability
  • GSK-certified fusion bonded epoxy coatings on ductile iron bodies

Flow accuracy is another challenge often overlooked. Air pockets disrupt meter readings, leading to unreliable billing and poor operational oversight. By eliminating these disturbances, AVK air valves restore accurate metering and enhance system management.

Benefits for utilities:

  • Reliable flow data for fair billing
  • Better monitoring of network performance
  • Revenue recovery from accurate measurement
  • Consistent and reliable supply for end users

Impact of Air in Pipelines vs AVK Air Valve Benefits

Without Air Valves Outcome Benefit With AVK Air Valve
Air pockets reduce efficiency Up to 30% lower capacity, higher pumping costs Maintains flow, lowers energy use by up to 25%
Sudden air shifts Water hammer, vacuum collapse, ruptured pipes Automatic release prevents destructive surges
Oxygen exposure Accelerated corrosion, reduced pipe lifespan Stainless steel and EPDM seals protect assets
Distorted flow readings Inaccurate billing, mismanaged supply Air-free flow ensures accurate metering

 

Meet Us At WETEX 2025

We are extremely excited to be joining the WETEX Exhibition once again at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 30 September to 2 October. 

At Stand 7-H5, our team will showcase AVK air valves alongside other infrastructure innovations. Joined by global suppliers and industry leaders, we will highlight how effective air management extends pipeline lifespan and secures reliable water supply. One of the prominent names joining us is AVK, bringing advanced air valve designs to the region’s largest sustainability platform.

Mark your calendar so you don’t miss it!