Benefits of valve refurbishment, when compared to a new replacement valve, include considerable savings. And for an air valve at Balmore Tunnel in Scotland, which was no longer performing optimally, it turned out to be the best option.
Glenfield Invicta successfully completed a comprehensive refurbishment of an air valve at Balmore Tunnel for client George Leslie. The project included a removal of the air valve from its fixed position, full refurbishment, installation of new internals, complete shot blasting, application of new paint coatings internally and externally, and finally a complete testing.
The Balmore Tunnel is an essential component of the regional water infrastructure, and The Balmore line is the main pipeline that feeds into Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city by population. The pipeline is responsible for a large portion of Scotland’s water supply, and it is crucial that all work caused no issues on site. The tunnel on the pipeline was introduced in the year 2000 and draws some of its supply from Loch Lomond.
Over time, the air valve within the tunnel had become worn and degraded, necessitating a refurbishment to ensure continued reliability and performance. Glenfield Invicta was chosen for their expertise in water infrastructure solutions and their ability to deliver high-quality refurbishment services.
Confirming refurbishment as the best option
From the initial inspection of the valve in situ, it was clear that the cast iron body was in decent condition albeit extremely weathered from decades in a chamber. A thorough inspection of the air valve confirmed that refurbishment was a viable option. A detailed refurbishment plan was developed, considering the specific requirements of the Balmore Tunnel infrastructure.
Once the valve was removed from its position safely and brought to the Glenfield Invicta facility, the internal components of the valve were carefully extracted. Advanced shot blasting techniques were used to remove old paint, rust, and other contaminants from the air valve surface, achieving a clean and smooth surface ready for new coatings.
A full new set of internal components designed to enhance the performance and longevity of the air valve were installed, using high-quality materials to ensure durability and reliability. High-performance paint coatings were applied internally and externally, selected for their resistance to corrosion and ability to withstand the environmental conditions.
Rigorous testing of the refurbished valve was conducted to verify functionality and performance, ensuring all components met required specifications. After testing, the valve was safely reinstalled into the Balmore Tunnel, ensuring a secure and effective installation worthy of another 50 years of service.
A reliable and cost-efficient solution
Refurbishment of this air valve for the Balmore Tunnel significantly improved the reliability of the valve system, reducing the risk of future failures and maintenance issues.
High-quality materials and coatings extended the operational life of the valve, providing long-term value to the water supply network. The new internals and coatings optimised the performance of the valve, ensuring efficient air release and pressure management. Returning a refurbished valve to its original location and function ensures that the dynamics of the pipework and the system configuration remain unchanged.
By refurbishing the valve instead of replacing it, substantial cost savings were achieved without compromising quality or performance. George Leslie, the client, was pleased with the successful refurbishment, which met their goal of maintaining the existing infrastructure while avoiding the higher costs and longer lead times of a replacement.
Andy MacLeod was the Senior Site Agent from George Leslie, involved in this project:
“For the refurbishment project the key factors regarding the decision were:
- Glenfield Invicta advised that the base materials was in reasonable condition and suitable for refurbishment,
- short turnaround time was offered, and
- the carbon savings of refurbishing versus installing new valves.
We were also happy that there would be the same performance from the new valves, and it also meant we did not require to modify any existing pipework in what were two very tight chambers to access. The valves we also awkwardly positioned at the top of a hill, next to the John Muir Way (very busy) and right next to a critical valve chamber with limited access possible for plant or equipment. So, it was not just the valves themselves, but the ancillary works that were avoided in terms of pipework modifications.
Great service from Glenfield Invicta, and Wilson managed to get himself very dirty in the process!”
