West Coast, USA
Overview
A critical infrastructure upgrade was carried out at a major international airport on the West coast of the USA. The project involved installing an 18-inch AVT EZ Valve on an active fire suppression line located near maintenance hangars for a major airline. With strict operational requirements, high security protocols, and the need to maintain uninterrupted service, the project demanded a solution that could deliver precision, speed, and zero shutdowns.
The Challenge
This project presented a unique combination of technical and operational challenges:
- No shutdown permitted: The fire suppression line could not be taken out of service under any circumstances due to safety requirements within the airport environment.
- Critical location: The installation took place adjacent to aircraft maintenance hangars, where uninterrupted fire protection is essential.
- Ongoing construction works: The valve installation was part of wider project that included tarmac improvements, including removal of old pavement and installation of new pipeline infrastructure.
- Large-diameter requirement: West Coast infrastructure standards often call for larger diameters, with 18” pipelines becoming increasingly common.
- Security constraints: Working within an airport environment required strict adherence to security protocols, adding complexity to planning and execution.
The Solution
To address these challenges, AVT’s distributor and installation partner, selected the AVT EZ Valve system.
The installers had previously completed multiple projects at the airport and was the only insertion valve provider operating on-site, making them the trusted choice for this installation.
Key aspects of the solution included:
- AVT EZ Valve selection: The installers chose AVT specifically because it offered a reliable 18-inch insertion valve solution, meeting the larger diameter requirements of the project.
- Expert installation team: The installation was carried out by AVT installation experts, supported by the partner's experienced crew.
- Live installation capability: The EZ Valve enabled installation without shutting down the fire suppression line, ensuring continuous protection for critical airport operations.
- Creation of a control point: The installed valve provided a permanent control point, improving system flexibility for future maintenance and operational needs.
Results
The project was completed with exceptional efficiency and minimal disruption:
- Installation completed in under four hours
- Zero interruption to the fire suppression system
- Full compliance with strict airport security protocols
- Creation of a permanent control point for future operations
- Seamless integration with ongoing infrastructure upgrades
Key Benefits
- Uninterrupted critical services Essential fire protection remained fully operational throughout the installation.
- Speed and efficiency Rapid installation minimised disruption in a highly time-sensitive environment.
- Capability for large diameters AVT’s ability to support 18” pipelines addressed a key requirement in West Coast infrastructure projects.
- Proven expertise in complex environments Collaboration between AVT experts and Tapmasters ensured smooth delivery despite logistical and security constraints.
Conclusion
This project highlights the effectiveness of the AVT EZ Valve in high-risk, high-security environments where shutdowns are not an option. By combining advanced insertion valve technology with experienced installation teams, the airport successfully enhanced its fire suppression infrastructure while maintaining full operational continuity.
The result is a more flexible, resilient system—ready to support both ongoing development and future maintenance needs.