Civil Engineering & Water InfrastructureGovernment and water boardsDredging industryOffshoreIndustryCalamities
Waterpompstation bij het kanaal Pannerling met rode apparatuur, leidingen en stromend water, omgeven door grasland en bomen.
Government and water boards
Rode pomp op een multicat op zee, op de achtergrond is een blauw met oranje jack-up schip te zien
Offshore
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Twee monteurs poseren voor een waterpomp, elektromotor en een gemaal.
Construction of a temporary pumping station in the heart of Rotterdam
Dredging activities port La Rochelle
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Een rij van pompsets naast elkaar in een loods, uitkijkend op een container met daarop het opschrift: "Van Heck"
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Siphon systems

Siphon systems.

Water transfer using our smart vacuum technology

Our siphon systems are ideally suited for temporary water diversion during renovations and maintenance work where there is a natural slope. With a vacuum pump of only 2,700 Watts, up to 15,000 m³ per hour can be moved per pipe.

The most sustainable and energy-efficient way of water management

The Van Heck siphon system offers one of the most environmentally friendly and sustainable solutions for water transportation. By using natural elevation differences and smart vacuum technology, water can be redirected without the high energy consumption of traditional pumps. Van Heck recognized the potential of this technology early on and since then has built unrivaled expertise in designing, installing, managing and rental of siphon systems.

A siphon system is therefore not only a technically smart choice but also a cost-saving and silent solution that contributes to sustainable water management.

“We don't claim to be as smart as Archimedes, but we have elevated the siphon principle to an art form!”

More information?

Want to know more about our siphon systems? Download the brochure here.

Do you have questions?

Our specialists are happy to work with you from challenge to execution. Leave your phone number and we will call you back.

How does a siphon system work?

The principle of a siphon system is simple but effective: water flows from high to low. Emptying an aquarium or draining the fuel tank of a scooter with the help of a hose that is briefly sucked on is known to most. Van Heck uses the same principle on a large scale by deploying ø600, ø800, or ø1000mm pipework, a vacuum installation consisting of three electrically driven vacuum pumps, and a vacuum tank.

  • The height difference between the inlet and outlet side ensures the water flow.
  • The vacuum pumps suck the air out of the pipes, causing the water flow to start.
  • Is there more water at the inlet? Then more water flows through the pipe due to the increased height difference, allowing the system to self-regulate.
  • Even with a water level difference of just a few centimeters, a siphon system can be operational.
Een schematisch overzicht van de hevelwerking

Features and performance

A siphon system from Van Heck offers impressive performance combined with very low operational costs.

  • Capacity up to 15,000 m³ per hour per line.
  • Extremely low power consumption—only 2,700 Watts
  • Low noise level, ideal for projects in urban or noise-sensitive environments.
  • Self-regulating operation thanks to the natural water level difference.
  • Flexible to expand with alarm functions.

Sustainable benefits

A siphon system is particularly suitable for projects where sustainability and reliability are central:

  • No or minimal CO₂ emissions due to the extremely low energy consumption.
  • Low maintenance costs and high operational reliability.
  • Limited noise nuisance, even during long-term use.
  • Suitable for long-term, large-scale water transport.

Fish safety during siphoning

A siphon system does not contain rotating parts like a pump does. Therefore, the chance of a fish being physically harmed by moving parts is low. The pressure difference in a siphon can affect a fish, but these effects are limited at a low height. Per project, we look at the effects on the ecological environment and advise on fish safety.

Applications

Siphon systems are used in various sectors and situations, for example in:

  • Temporary or permanent water drainage in infrastructure projects.
  • Managing water levels in nature reserves or polders.
  • Supporting dike and bank works.
  • Large-scale and sustainable water transport in civil projects.

Why Van Heck?

With decades of experience in the rental of innovative pump solutions and a proven track record with water managers, contractors, and governments, Van Heck is the partner for sustainable water transport. We offer:

  • Complete engineering and project management.
  • 24/7 service and support.
  • Worldwide deployability and quick mobilization.

More information?

Want to know more about this solution? Download the brochure here.

Do you have questions?

Our specialists are happy to work with you from challenge to execution. Leave your phone number and we will call you back.

Siphon systems

Projects

The siphon installations of Van Heck are versatile. The large number of siphon systems and extensive pipeline inventory ensure that Van Heck can always offer the right setup.

Civil Engineering & Water Infrastructure

Antwerp, Belgium

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Government & water boards

Dry cofferdam with double siphon

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