Emerson unveils new ‘flood-proof’ actuator

Emerson has announced the launch of its new EIM Aquanaught, which the company describes as a waterproof submersible electric actuator designed to meet crucial isolation demands in wastewater treatment plants during high water conditions such as hurricanes.

According to Emerson, the actuator can be submerged and still operate under 150 feet of dirty water for seven days.

During severe events like Hurricanes Sandy, Irma and Harvey, billions of gallons of untreated sewage overflowed into communities, bringing health and environmental risks to the affected areas.

“When flood waters begin to overwhelm wastewater treatment facilities, it becomes critical for these plants to keep pace with the changing conditions and continue to operate for the sake of their communities,” said Shimona Verma, senior product marketing manager for actuation technologies at Emerson Automation Solutions.

“More facilities are looking to upgrade their infrastructure to ensure they aren’t outmatched by future flood waters, and the EIM Aquanaught is a reliable component that will help their operations stay afloat.”

In a statement, Emerson notes that the EIM Aquanaught is ideal for gate or valve isolation applications found in wastewater, water, collection systems, flood control and desalination plants.

It features a waterproof enclosure and ‘hermetically sealed’ connections that ensure uninterrupted plant operation during flooding conditions. This design will apparently allow facilities to remain in control of their isolation needs from a safe remote location even if the actuator becomes submerged for extended periods of time.