Emerson Exchange 365

Temporary submergence or flood events are major concerns for wastewater treatment plants. Whether due to coastal flooding from storm surge or combined sewer overflow during unusually heavy rain events, these low lying facilities are often flooded and can not cycle important valves required to avoid the discharge of raw sewage.

On Wednesday morning at the 2013 Emerson Global Users Exchange, Steve Poling, Northwest regional sales manager for Emerson’s Valve Automation business, presented a solution to these challenges.

Electric motor operated valves are generally designed to withstand temporary submergence as defined in IP68 ratings but can not be operated under water or sewage. Emerson designed the EIM Aquanaught electric valve actuator to operate under fifty feet of head.

The Aquanaught has a separate control module that can be installed above the level of any potential flooding. The control module includes all electrical controls such as contactor, transformer, and overload relays. The actuator enclosure and motor conduit box are designed to prevent water entry. The enclosure features glass to metal hermetic sealed contacts, and the motor conduit box cover is threaded with an O-ring seal. Additionally, there is an emergency backup system to keep the actuator running in the event of power loss.

Compared to hydraulic actuators, the electric actuators are also more cost effective and easier for wastewater treatment facilities to maintain.