Discover the C.I.EAU artefacts collection

With more than 400 collector’s items from many different eras, the C.I.EAU collection recounts the evolution of water treatment technologies in a unique and exceptional way. Since the arrival of computers in the 1980s, many objects, machines, pieces of equipment and other tools have been quietly replaced as stations have been upgraded. The team behind the C.I.EAU has taken great care to preserve the most significant examples from these eras, while welcoming new-generation pieces and prototypes of future technologies.

Get up close to the reality of the world of water with our artifacts that bear witness to the evolution of the supply and treatment of this resource. See the objects used in water purification. Discover the machinery and all the historical elements that contributed to the creation of today’s drinking water systems.

Our entire collection is not on permanent display.
Take a look at our various archive collections available in the following categories:

THE CONDUITS

Like urban rivers, pipes criss-cross the lanes, roads and boulevards of cities: each street is like a little stream. To make this water flow through all these urban facilities, engineers have developed an impressive variety of pipes, each with its own unique shapes, materials, functions and specialities. Click here to find out more!

Directing water

Many parts control the flow of water or other liquids. For example, valves are used to open or close a water inlet. In the distribution network, where water pressure is constant, the system must be equipped with devices for precise control of water inlets and outlets. Click here to find out more!

Access to water

In Canada, water is regularly taken for granted, but the situation is different for many international communities. Where a long walk is required to reach the nearest water source, water must be transported using containers. This category is dedicated to objects linked to freshwater collection, wells and objects for monitoring water consumption, such as water meters. Click here to discover them!

Worker objects

Water professions are highly diversified: civil engineers, hydraulic engineers, electricians, chemists, mechanics, technicians... This category of artifacts is dedicated to the daily life of water stations: some work tools and controls in direct contact with plant workers. Click here to discover them!

Memories and commemorations

Extraordinary facts, memories and markers of time... this suite is dedicated to the memory and past of the water industries. These artifacts have a story to tell. Click to discover them!

Firefighters

Often overlooked, fire management is directly linked to water management. For example, red-bodied, color-coded hydrants are connected directly to the drinking water distribution network. Click here to find out more!

Raw water assessment

Raw water harvested from different bodies of water varies according to a number of environmental factors, such as the seasonal cycle and the acidity of the water. Numerous parameters are measured when raw water enters the urban water network, and these must be monitored throughout the drinking water production and distribution process. Click here to discover the many tools available for calculating raw water parameters.

Molecular analysis

Fluorine, chlorine and ozone are three highly dangerous gases when poorly controlled. The drinking water industry has been using these gases in a controlled way for many years, and the health benefits are remarkable. Chlorine eliminates microorganisms in water, such as viruses and bacteria: it is injected in very precise doses to ensure safety. Ozone plays an equivalent role, but as it is unstable, with a lifetime of less than an hour, it has to be produced on site, with high energy costs.

Water flow and pressure

Water flow and pressure are essential parameters for the urban water network. In the plant, they provide information on the quantities of water produced, and ensure the safety of the installations and their durability over time. This category is dedicated to devices measuring water level, pressure and flow. Click to discover them!

Do you have a water-related object that might be of interest to C.I.EAU?

Donate it and it will become part of our collection.

Contact us now to discuss