Across the United States, water main breaks are a regular occurrence. Whether due to aging infrastructure, fluctuating or freezing temperatures, earthquakes, or accidents, the ability to shut off the water in a timely manner is critical. Unfortunately, debris-clogged valve castings often impede access to the shutoff valve. Clogged valves needlessly waste time and water, lead to property damage, frustrate workers, disrupt service, raise costs, and anger the public as they witness a precious resource washing away.

How We Solved a Major Water Industry Problem with a Simple Part

Clogged valves have plagued the water industry for generations. If the primary valve is blocked, workers often seek accessible valves downstream in order to mitigate damage. Workers typically use augers, shovels, or truck-mounted extraction tools to remove the dirt, mud, and debris blocking the valve. This painstaking labor can take hours and impact water service across a broader-than-necessary service area.

Since valves are often located in or near roadways, this is potentially dangerous work. In fact, ValveShield was created in response to an accident that didn’t need to happen. 

This simple part installs inside a valve riser or valve box. An integrated filter captures debris and allows water to flow though to prevent freezing above the water line. When access to the valve is needed, simply remove ValveShield and access the valve unimpeded by debris.

In field trials, ValveShield’s patent-pending design trapped 98.7 percent of all debris that entered the castings. The testing durations included repeated freeze/thaw cycles, frozen and non-frozen conditions. In laboratory analysis, the nylon welded filter withstood loading of 11.2 pounds of wet debris (sand, silt mixture) with ease and without separation from the shield.

Why ValveShield?

ValveShield is an affordable, easy to use product that protects valves from the elements. By strategically installing ValveShields in risers and valve boxes throughout a community, shutting off water in an emergency or during routine maintenance is a fast and simple matter — as it should be.

Benefits of ValveShield include:

-    Faster repairs

-    Fewer service interruptions

-    Increased productivity

-    Reduced labor and equipment costs

-    Less property damage

-    Less negative publicity

-    Reduced waste

-    Reduced maintenance requirements and costs

Get a Free ValveShield Sample

We’re on a mission to transform the water industry. Order a free ValveShield today to experience a better way to keep your system’s valves accessible.

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