Thames Water choose Valve Assist portable valve drives

Through their contractors GBM and G Stow, Thames Water have invested in Valve Assist portable valve actuator from Total Lockout to help improve productivity by speeding up operation of large valves and reducing the risk of strain injury to operators.
Alongside the filter beds at Hampton Water Treatment works in South West London are six large diameter manual control valves located below ground in chambers.
Periodic operation of these valves can be onerous, sometimes requiring entering the valve chamber. Inevitably such activity falls under the Confined Spaces regulations and also presents risk of strain injury to operators.

Demonstration of Valve Assist at Hampton Water Treatment Works

The VAS-EVA1 electric portable valve drive tool, used in conjunction with the RPM300N pedestal unit from Scapin enables valve operation to be completed swiftly while minimizing the need permits and procedures.
The electric power tool was chosen for its performance, excellent torque delivery combined with speed, convenience and light weight.

A portable pedestal system from Scapin, designed especially for below ground valves was also used. The pedestal is a lightweight tripod system which includes a 90° bevel gearbox. It is positioned above an access hole, immediately above the valve and connects to the valve drive shaft via a fixed, telescopic linkage. This system reduces torque requirements at the point of input and also provides a digital revolution counter so the operator can monitor progress.

The portability of the system brings cost savings. A single set up can be moved from valve to valve, quickly deployed to complete the operation.

The beauty of the ‘Valve Assist’ product offering from Total Lockout is it is completely bespoke to suit prevailing needs and working conditions.