To safeguard the local water supply, a water intake project has been initiated in Hangzhou, China. AVK China contributes with products for the large-scale project.
At the Qiantang River, the mother river of Hangzhou, hundreds of thousands of visitors gather each year to witness a world-famous natural spectacle: the "Qiantang Tide." Though it may resemble a tsunami, it is actually a tidal bore—a wave that moves upstream as high tide approaches. While over 80 rivers worldwide experience tidal bores, Qiantang's is the largest, with waves reaching 4 meters (and up to 10 meters in some areas), spanning 3 kilometers wide, surging at 24 km/h, and producing a roar audible over an hour before arrival.
A Spectacle with Challenges
The Qiantang River supplies over 80% of Hangzhou's drinking water, making this phenomenon more than just a tourist attraction. During the tidal flood season, saltwater intrusion from the estuary threatens the city's water supply. To address this, Hangzhou has launched a water intake relocation project to improve water security and urban development planning. The water intake point was moved to the Shimen Shajiang section of the Fuchun River, and pump stations were built at the Jiuxi Water Plant. Additionally, a pipeline project was developed at the Shansha Reservoir, along with renovations to existing water treatment facilities.
Designed to meet a projected demand of 3 million tons/day, the new intake system includes an initial pump station capable of handling 1.7 million tons/day, ensuring a stable water supply for Hangzhou’s growing population.
The project is scheduled for implementation in two phases. During Phase 1, construction includes the water intake pump station at the Jiuxi Water Plant, a water transmission pipeline from the Shanhusha Reservoir (parallel double pipes, each approximately 6.6 km long), multi-source water distribution wells at Jiuxi Water Plant, and renovation of related equipment. AVK China has supplied a comprehensive valve solution for the first phase, ensuring exceptional durability and flexible configuration options to meet the project’s stringent requirements.
Products Supplied to the Project (So Far):
- 22 × Double eccentric butterfly valves (DN1600-3200)
- 40 × Resilient seated gate valves (DN300-800)
- 22 × Air valves (DN300)
- 5 × Hydraulically operated check valves (DN1000-1200)
The large-diameter double eccentric butterfly valves (up to DN3200) feature AVK’s rubber sealing technology, with a tilted and fixated disc that ensures long-term stability in water pipeline operations. Additionally, the hydraulically operated check valves utilize a modular design, optimizing installation space and simplifying maintenance.
AVK’s Strong Industrial Chain
AVK Group’s largest overseas production base is located in Anhui, spanning 330,000 m², and includes three key production facilities: a large valve factory, a fittings factory, and a machining factory. Surrounding AVK Anhui, various subsidiaries—including the AVK Asia Tech Centre, AVK Advanced Casting Factory, AVK Syntech, and AVK Sealing Technology Company—form an integrated industrial network, ensuring cost-effective, high-quality products with on-time delivery.
With a combination of global expertise and a localized approach, AVK China remains dedicated to being a trusted partner for local customers, upholding the Group’s values of quality, innovation, reliability, sustainability, and customer service.