Valves

Valve failures have contributed to some of the industry’s most catastrophic incidents. Since valves control the flow and pressure of piping system contents, mechanical integrity is vital. Valve types include ball, butterfly, check, diaphragm, gate, globe, plug, and slide valves, and are either flanged, threaded, socket welded or butt-welded. Inspectors and operators should be well versed in these valve designs and anatomies to foresee and prevent potential problems.

Common Issues

Common valve issues include valve selection/installation flaws, including metallurgy, direction and orientation, and pressure and temperature ratings; external corrosion, cracking, and mechanical damage; internal corrosion, cracking, and mechanical damage; and normal wear and tear / leaking seals.

Important industry standards and recommended practices should be referenced for the design, inspection, testing, and maintenance of valves to preserve reliability. The following standards are especially applicable to testing and maintenance and should be considered as part of a valve mechanical integrity program:

Our Capabilities

At Stress Engineering Services, we have decades of experience solving problems related to pressure containing and controlling valves as well as critical valve component parts such as gates, seats, metal to metal seals, proprietary coatings, injector nozzles, etc. Our expertise includes the development of functional, technical and qualification specifications to ensure alignment of engineering, original equipment manufacturer (OEM), and client intended service application.

Most of our valve work involves fire damage assessments from fires or explosions; modeling valve opening characteristics, timing, and control systems for water hammer studies; and analyzing valves for cavitation and noise/vibration generation. We also provide validation services, fitness-for-service (FFS) assessments, and solutions through process engineering.

Our vast experience in valve engineering can help you determine inspection and maintenance protocols through on-line and off-line inspection and repair, as well as through developing and implementing written procedures and proper documentation.