Report from the World’s Largest Global Water Quality Event: WEFTEC 2023, Chicago

By Dennis Wilson, SIGMA’s National Technical Sales Coordinator

The energy around WEFTEC 2023 was strong: The show was well attended, with almost 30,000 exhibitors and visitors present. SIGMA had a steady flow of visitors to our booth throughout the show.

What was most interesting about the show is its new emphasis on innovation and new technology. We saw pumps with self-cleaning filters, and robotic inspection systems for detecting flaws inside pipelines. The show is definitely moving towards embracing technology solutions.

Of course the tried and true pipe, fittings and pipe restraint companies were also in attendance. There is no replacement for pipe in the Treatment Plant world. But we definitely could see a blend of older traditional waterworks industry exhibitors, and a growing number of new names. It was good to see lots of friendly faces, like US Pipe, which had a packed booth.

To sum up, we’ll be back in 2024, and with an even bigger booth. The buzz around the show suggests that Plant Work is where it is at! And SIGMA is now so well-placed to serve this sector. Not only do we have large-sized fittings and restraints (up to 64inches) and a full line of flanged fittings, but we also specialize in a range of diverse coatings and linings used in Treatment Plants. Additionally, we are building a dedicated Treatment Plant Division inhouse. Shout out to a number of the SIGMA sales guys who are growing our expertise in this sector: notably Joel Goff, Clay Gissler, and Greg McAdam’s team in Houston.

Later this year, we will also be launching a new e-publication, Plant Work PULSE. The Pulse will talk about all things relating to the Treatment Plant sector. The launch issue will feature an interview with a seasoned veteran from the industry with insights on what the future holds. To join the mailing list for our newsletter, sign up here https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/oT0ZUzx/pulse