Material trim selection based on API 600/602 1

[Enerkem]

Hello,

I have to build all piping and valve specifications for a new ethanol plant which include many type of fluid such as steam, methanol, oxygen, hydrogen, etc. for many set of condition from 100oF to 1300oF.

I'm not a valve specialist and I would like to understand more about what is the right trim material for a specific application.

Example: what are the limitation of API Trim 8 (13%Cr/HF)? What is the recommended service and condition for every Trim number based on API 600/602.

Can someone suggest a good source or documentation to guide in the design of valve trim?

FM

 

[tr1ntx]

Well, it's probably going to take a valve specialist to answer that question. A lot of the manufacturers have charts available, but of course have the disclaimer that it is only intended as a guide and does not guarantee applicability. I remember a few years ago when the ethanol plant building boom was starting that a lot of them were having trouble with the valve seals (o-rings) leaking on the finished product piping.

I've seen a service condition vs. trim number chart somewhere. It was oilfield related though, and probably a cut-down version of what you're seeking. Some valve sales company is bound to have charts they have compiled from the manufacturers. Cameron's website has a lot of information, if you can take the time to wade through the maze. Vintrol might have some sort of trim chart on their's.

Unfortunately, this is probably going to be a case of having to contact valve reps and going over the project with them, then they'll go back to the manufacturer to get answers if anything is questionable. In some cases I have stumbled across valuable information similar to what you're asking on rep companies' websites. I can't think of any names right now.

 

[SNORGY]

Enerkem:

First, I agree with tr1ntx...

Cameron's website is your best bet for useful data. I have dealt with Cameron and their various local distributors on similar issues, and they have been very cooperative and helpful. In several instances, they have helped develop the valve specifications with me (us) for particular projects.

Understand that what you are embarking on is something you can't accomplish in a few weeks, maybe not even in a few years. Valve companies and operating companies alike have worked these issues for decades and they still aren't done. Plus, if you think that the metallurgy is difficult to sort out, wait until you start looking at the elastomers. (e.g., "...use *THIS* Viton but not *THIS* Viton...")

That said, by the time you do get the metallurgy sorted out, chances are that NACE will issue a revision to ISO-15156, within which you will be informed that metals that used to work now "might" work...gotta love those NACE guys.

If you are a member of ASME, you might be able to get some useful information from some of the Knovel textbooks that are available in their e-library.

I believe that Fisher Control Valves (Spartan) have an engineering book in the public domain that contains very good recommendations for valve trim materials.

I am inclined to consider the purchase of the one or two specifications that you require from PIP (Process Industry Practices).

Otherwise, if you are successful in coming up with a valve specification that solves every problem for every service condition, please send me a copy...

Alternatively, I will send you mine...in a few years.

Regards,

SNORGY.

 

[HitokiriAoshi]

How often will the valve be actuated.
"Zero" leakage requirement
Solids in the stream?
Ease of sourcing.
Cost.

These will help limit your search in the right direction, then consult a mentor or valve specialist for further recommendations.