As cities grow and modernize, urban water supply systems face increasing demands for efficiency, safety, and reliability. At the heart of these networks are valves—key components responsible for regulating flow, isolating sections for maintenance, preventing backflow, and managing pressure.
According to the World Bank, average non-revenue water (NRW)—primarily due to leakage and faulty infrastructure—exceeds 30% in global urban distribution systems. Valves play a critical role in reducing this loss and ensuring clean, uninterrupted water supply.
| Function | Importance |
|---|---|
| Flow Control | Maintain stable flow across pressure zones and elevation changes |
| Section Isolation | Enable repairs or emergency shutoffs without disrupting the full system |
| Backflow Prevention | Prevent contamination of potable water due to reverse flow |
| Pressure Regulation | Protect pipelines from overpressure or transient pressure waves |
| Air Release | Prevent air locking and reduce water hammer in high points of pipelines |
Modern water distribution systems require valves that are durable, low-maintenance, and certified for potable water use.
Here's a breakdown of the most frequently used valves in city water systems and their functions, with examples from Yuanda Valve Group:
Function: Isolation — full open/close
Usage: Water mains, transmission lines
Example: API-ANSI Cast Steel Gate Valve
Data Point: Gate valves are used in over 60% of municipal isolation applications due to low flow resistance.
Function: Flow regulation and shutoff
Usage: Large-diameter pipelines and pumping stations
Example: DIN Standard Butterfly Valves
Advantage: Compact design, lower installation space, ideal for retrofits
Function: Backflow prevention
Usage: Distribution branches, pump outlets
Example: Stainless Steel Swing Check Valve
Fact: WHO recommends backflow preventers in 100% of potable water networks in areas with pressure variation.
Function: Throttling and flow control
Usage: Pressure zones, control loops
Example: ANSI Stainless Steel Globe Valve
Yuanda is a globally recognized manufacturer specializing in comprehensive valve solutions for waterworks. Highlights include:
Over 4,000 product specifications: Gate, globe, butterfly, ball, check valves and more.
Certifications: ISO 9001, API 6D, CE, WRAS-compliant for potable water safety.
Advanced Coatings: Fusion-bonded epoxy and rubber linings for corrosion resistance
Material Options: Cast iron, ductile iron, WCB carbon steel, stainless steel (CF8, CF8M), and duplex steel
Global Projects: Successfully supplied valves to large-scale municipal water systems in China, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.
Yuanda Valve Group has been actively involved in numerous municipal development projects across China, delivering reliable valve solutions to enhance urban infrastructure. These projects showcase the practical application of high-quality valves in large-scale water supply and distribution systems:
Luoyang Water Plant Project
Deployed a full suite of gate valves and butterfly valves for main water transmission and branch networks. The project improved water delivery efficiency for over 500,000 residents.
Wuhan Sponge City Infrastructure Project
Yuanda supplied resilient-seated gate valves and non-return valves for the city’s upgraded stormwater and wastewater management network. The use of corrosion-resistant valves helped reduce system maintenance by over 30%.
Xiong'an New Area Smart Water Grid
Integrated smart-controlled butterfly valves with remote operation features, contributing to China’s next-generation smart city pilot project. Valves were tailored to support real-time pressure control and leak detection systems.
Chengdu Underground Water Pipe Renewal
Replaced old cast-iron valves with Yuanda’s epoxy-coated ductile iron butterfly valves, significantly improving flow capacity and reducing pressure loss.
| Criteria | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Flow & Pressure Rating | Select valves rated for both normal and surge pressure conditions |
| Material Durability | Use epoxy-coated ductile iron or stainless steel for long-term corrosion resistance |
| Certification | Ensure compliance with ISO/API/WRAS standards for drinking water safety |
| Automation Ready | Choose actuator-compatible valves for smart system integration |
| Maintenance Access | Opt for quarter-turn or lightweight options in confined spaces |
Urban water supply and distribution systems demand reliable, high-performance valves that can endure the test of time and environmental conditions. By choosing certified, corrosion-resistant, and automation-ready valve solutions from Yuanda Valve Group, municipalities can improve efficiency, reduce water loss, and ensure long-term sustainability.
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