It was extremely important to the operator that the new valves would not only function reliably but also have a long service life and allow for precise control. In addition to this, the customer wanted a valve whose inside area around the valve seats is particularly well protected as it is most heavily exposed to high flow velocities and cavitation. As the VAG KSS Hollow-Jet Discharge Valve met all these requirements, it was shortlisted. What made the customer decide in favour of the product was the extremely sturdy design of the VAG KSS Hollow-Jet Discharge Valve combined with the adjustable bronze guides of the cylindrical sleeve. These guides prevent vibration, thus ensuring a longer service life. The premium-quality PATIG ceramic coating reduces friction and protects the inside of the valve from abrasion.
To take them to their place of destination, JMA [an affiliated company of VAG based in the Czech Republic] transported the hollow-jet discharge valves past the actual dam and through a long submerged tunnel to reach the turbine towers.
“It actually didn’t take us very long to decide in favour of the VAG KSS Hollow-Jet Discharge Valve,” says Engineer Fuksa. “But we didn’t only impose high requirements on the product. We also wanted a project partner who would support us during installation or commissioning. JMA promised us to provide this service. And with the Skalka project (2009), they had also in the past demonstrated that this worked extraordinarily well. And so we placed the order. And when we look back again now on how the project was implemented and see the valves that have been in operation for six months now, we couldn’t be more satisfied!”