NEC Birmingham
Project Requirements
The NEC Projects team approached MPD Pumps to replace both the isolating valves supplying the potable water and firefighting pump sets. The existing 250mm and 400mm gate valves had become heavily corroded after 50 years of service and were no longer able to close. Due to the firefighting system also supplying water to the onsite hotels, the project required careful planning and completion within a strict timeframe.
Our Approach
Before works could begin, an asbestos inspection was required due to the age of the existing installation. Following testing, three of the 22 flanges inspected were found to contain asbestos, including two that required removal.
Working alongside specialist lifting contractors, MPD developed a solution that allowed the existing valves to be safely removed without modifying the asbestos-containing pipework. The old gate valves were replaced with new Tomoe butterfly valves, incorporating bespoke 316 stainless steel spacers to suit the installation requirements.
The Result
MPD successfully completed the valve replacement while maintaining the integrity of the existing system and overcoming the challenges presented by asbestos restrictions and limited project timescales.
The upgraded valves improved reliability and restored effective isolation of the potable and firefighting pump systems.