Abstract

and sustainable water supplies depend on water infrastructure. However, old infrastructure, especially valves that leak and break, can cause significant water loss, economic strain, and environmental damage. This study explores best choice of gate valves to use while replacing defected existing gate valve in the networks by examining gate valve supply chains and their life cycle consequences. Traditional gate valve supply chains are lengthy and complicated. Extracting iron ore and copper destroys habitats and pollutes air and water. Factory processing and production of these materials increases energy use and air/water pollution. Valve shipping, usually overseas, emits lots of greenhouse gases. While valves provide temporary functionality, leaks can waste precious water. Finally, valve disposal the environmental impact of typical gate valves must be assessed using life cycle assessment (LCA). Water utilities can improve valve life cycle practices and promote sustainability by undertaking an LCA. Instead of producing and shipping valves, 3D printers may make them locally utilizing feedstock materials like metal powders or polymers. This strategy could drastically minimize traditional supply chain environmental effect. 3D-printed valves are promising yet difficult. An in-depth evaluation is required to determine the environmental impact associated with producing the raw material used in 3D printing valves. EOL management for 3D-printed valves needs more study. A sustainable future study may include solutions that requires investigating printing material recyclability and valve remanufacturing. 3D-printed valves must be compared to regular ones for cost. The cost of 3D printing a valve is important, but lead time, scalability for large projects, and maintenance costs must also be considered. This study compared traditional gate valve versus 3D-printed gate valve supply chains for environmental and economic impact. Traditional valves are practical yet environmentally harmful. 3D printing could lessen valve lifecycle environmental effect. However, EOL management and economic feasibility research is needed. A complete examination of environmental effect, economic viability, and project-specific requirements will help water utilities choose the most sustainable gate valve solution. Water infrastructure can become more sustainable with innovative methods like 3D printing.

Publication Date

5-13-2024

Document Type

Master's Project

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Engineering Management (ME)

Advisor

None provided

Campus

RIT Dubai

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