Engineering Reliability DN200 AVK 869 Commissioning

Reliable access to water is essential for any institution, especially one dedicated to health sciences and education. At Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University in Pretoria, ensuring a steady and well managed water supply is critical to supporting daily campus operations and long-term sustainability. Recognizing the need for a more resilient system, the university embarked on a water infrastructure upgrade that centred on advanced valve technology.

Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University in Pretoria recently undertook a vital upgrade to its water infrastructure to secure a reliable supply for campus operations. At the heart of the project was the commissioning of two DN200 AVK 869 altitude valves, engineered to regulate flow into the university’s main storage tanks. Designed to handle an inlet pressure of 7 bar and maintain a steady tank level of 9 meters, the system reflects the university’s commitment to operational excellence and sustainability.

Project Objectives

• Strengthen water supply reliability across campus facilities
• Automate tank filling to prevent overflow and maintain optimal levels
• Integrate durable, low maintenance valve solutions for long term performance

Solution Implementation

Valve Selection and Supply

• Primary Components: Two DN200 AVK 869 altitude valves were chosen for their proven reliability and precise level control.
• Additional Valves: AVK also supplied isolation and control valves to ensure full system compatibility and simplify procurement

System Configuration

• Inlet Pressure: Designed to operate at 7 bar, aligned with the municipal supply.
• Tank Level Control: Altitude valves calibrated to maintain a 9-meter water level, automatically shutting off inflow at the setpoint and reopening as levels dropped.

Commissioning Process

1. Installation: Valves fitted to the main inlet lines, with all connections verified.
2. Calibration: Each valve set precisely to the 9-meter level requirement.
3. Testing: Pressure and functional tests conducted at 7 bar to confirm performance.
4. Training: Maintenance staff received hands on instruction for routine checks and troubleshooting.

Key Outcomes

• Automated Level Control: Reliable, hands-free tank management reduced manual intervention and overflow risk.
• System Compatibility: Using AVK valves across the system ensured seamless integration and simplified future maintenance.
• Operational Efficiency: Consistent water availability supported both academic and healthcare functions.

Lessons Learned

• Valve Selection Matters: Choosing application specific valves like the AVK 869 series is critical for long term reliability.
• Training Accelerates Adoption: Early engagement with maintenance teams minimized operational issues.
• Supplier Integration: Sourcing all valves from one manufacturer streamlined logistics and technical support.

The commissioning of DN200 AVK 869 altitude valves at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University highlights the impact of robust engineering and strong supplier collaboration in critical water projects. The university now benefits from a dependable, automated water supply system that supports its mission and daily operations.