Electric Valves? Unreliable? Not Anymore.
Manual valves are the traditional choice for fire apparatus, offering affordability and reliability in controlling discharges. However, their design can impact the layout of the plumbing system and pump panel due to the need for manual handles, rods, and levers for operation. NFPA guidelines further complicate the layout by requiring the valve handle to be near the corresponding gauge. Proper sizing is crucial, as valves larger than 2.5 inches necessitate slow closure and are harder to operate under pressure. While durable, these valves have wear points like seals and balls that may require maintenance depending on age, use, and water conditions.Electric valves, despite being available for over 30 years, have faced reliability issues due to their initial design being directly adopted from industrial applications without considering the demands of fire service. This led to failures and a loss of confidence in the technology. However, modern electric valves have been redesigned to withstand extreme environments and high-pressure operations, addressing the shortcomings of their predecessors. Although they come at a higher cost, electric valves offer benefits like compact design, improved maneuverability, and easier maintenance access.