Hidden leaks can cost water utilities both money and reputation
Valve performance depends on more than metal components. The right elastomer compound helps maintain sealing integrity, supports longer service life, and reduces maintenance requirements.
Failures in water distribution networks always create stress for both the budget and the reputation of the operating utility.
Not every critical part in a water system is visible. Some of the most important elements that can cause hidden leaks are elastomer components. Inside gate valves, fire hydrants, butterfly valves, and other valves, parts such as gaskets, liners, and diaphragms ensure proper sealing.
Low-quality rubber gradually loses elasticity, develops cracks, or "remembers" its compressed shape, meaning it can no longer return to its original form. Because water quality, temperature, and treatment chemicals vary from place to place, sealing materials and the bond between rubber and metal must perform consistently over time.
At AVK Saudi, we do not use "just rubber". We apply specialized compounds developed by our dedicated manufacturing facility, AVK GUMMI A/S. These materials are engineered for different operating environments, including EPDM compounds for drinking water applications and NBR solutions for wastewater and aggressive media.
With controlled manufacturing and strict bonding quality checks, valve wedges are engineered for a service life of around 50 years.
Not every critical part in a water system is visible. Some of the most important elements that can cause hidden leaks are elastomer components. Inside gate valves, fire hydrants, butterfly valves, and other valves, parts such as gaskets, liners, and diaphragms ensure proper sealing.
Low-quality rubber gradually loses elasticity, develops cracks, or "remembers" its compressed shape, meaning it can no longer return to its original form. Because water quality, temperature, and treatment chemicals vary from place to place, sealing materials and the bond between rubber and metal must perform consistently over time.
At AVK Saudi, we do not use "just rubber". We apply specialized compounds developed by our dedicated manufacturing facility, AVK GUMMI A/S. These materials are engineered for different operating environments, including EPDM compounds for drinking water applications and NBR solutions for wastewater and aggressive media.
With controlled manufacturing and strict bonding quality checks, valve wedges are engineered for a service life of around 50 years.