Valves for water supply and sewage systems: gate valves and air release valves — the technical guide

In a water distribution network, watertight integrity depends not only on pipe quality — it depends equally on the valves that regulate flow, isolate network sections, and protect the system from pressure transients. An undersized, non-certified, or incompatible valve is a silent failure point, often invisible until it is too late.

Kamflex Europe offers a selected range of valves for water supply and sewage systems, built on over twenty years of technical experience in the water sector. The range comprises two complementary product families: ductile iron gate valves and air release/vacuum breaker valves.

Gate valves are the standard isolation device in water distribution networks. Kamflex Europe’s ductile iron gate valves are available in two body configurations:

• Flat body (F4): compact profile, ideal for chamber installations with limited space.
• Oval body (F5): greater structural robustness for deeper installations or where significant external loads are present.

Both configurations comply with EN 1074 for isolation valves in water supply. The epoxy resin lining with a minimum thickness of 250 microns provides corrosion protection in aggressive environments and suitability for potable water applications in compliance with Italian decree DM 174.

The fully vulcanised wedge ensures watertight sealing even after repeated opening and closing cycles. The robust threaded stem and the ability to replace seals under pressure reduce downtime during routine maintenance.

Available connections are flanged (for direct connection to fittings and equipment) or socket-end for PVC/PE pipes. Actuation is via handwheel or with a square-key cap for operation box — the recommended solution for buried or chamber-installed gate valves.

Kamflex Europe’s air release and vacuum breaker valves are the primary safeguard against two of the most critical phenomena in pressurised pipelines: air accumulation and water hammer. Trapped air increases head losses and reduces effective flow rate; an unabsorbed water hammer can irreparably damage pipes, joints, and equipment.

The valves are triple-action — air release, air intake, and vacuum break — and have a documented track record of installations on strategically important pipelines worldwide.

The range offers two main options:

• Stainless steel body in AISI 304, AISI 316, or Super Duplex: for aggressive environments, coastal installations, or where maximum corrosion resistance is required.
• Ductile iron body coated with epoxy powder: the standard solution for water supply networks and pressurised sewer systems.

The twenty-year specialist expertise of the Kamflex Europe technical team makes this range particularly suited to large-diameter pipelines, pumping stations, and pressurised sewer systems — contexts where incorrect valve sizing can have severe consequences for the entire infrastructure.

Unlike universal couplings — available from stock for immediate delivery — Kamflex Europe valves are supplied on specific request, following an analysis of operating conditions, nominal diameter, network hydraulic profile, and working pressures. Every valve is selected to deliver maximum performance in the specific context in which it operates.

Valves are part of a complete system. Kamflex Europe also offers universal couplings for water supply in ductile iron and ductile iron fittings up to DN 1600, to meet every requirement of water network design, maintenance, and upgrading.

For technical advice or to request a quotation, contact the Kamflex Europe team →