Sizes: DN 25-300 Operating pressure: max. 60 bar Compressed air: 3 bar…10 bar Operating temperatures: -196 °C…+400 °C Ambient temperature: -25°C…+80 °C Other names: emergency quick-closing valve, emergency shut-off valve, quick-action shut-off valve
What is a quick-action shut-off valve?
A quick-closing valve – also known as an emergency quick-closing valve and emergency shut-off valve – is a device that closes a pipeline quickly and tightly in the event of a disturbance without external energy.
The typical applications of emergency quick-closing valves are fuel lines and other critical areas where it is essential to secure the process quickly and safely. In a disturbance situation, the line can be closed in less than a second, thereby protecting the entire system from damage and potential hazards. No electricity or compressed air is required for closing, as the closure is achieved by means of spring force.
All quick-closing valves are actuator-operated, meaning that their control can be performed remotely from the valve itself. The actuator closing mechanisms use a spring, and they are primarily operated by compressed air or electro-hydraulics.
We represent the German company KÜHMEÄ, whose comprehensive range includes emergency quick-closing valves approved in accordance with the EN 161, EN 16678 and EN 23553-1 standards.
Cryogenic quick-closing valves differ only slightly from conventional quick-closing valves. In a valve intended for cryogenic use, the extremely low temperature has been taken into account. The valve is delivered clean and dry. It comes with an extended stem, and the materials are selected for cold resistance. Thermal expansion has been considered in the design and dimensioning.
In our range, there is the KÜHME quick-closing valve KVL/PR-TT, which is specifically designed for cryogenic media (-196 °C). The valve achieves closure times of less than one second. If necessary, ATEX and SIL certifications are available for the emergency shut-off valve.
The valve opening can be adjusted to optimize the flow during startup.
The quick-closing valve complies with the requirements of the EN 1160 standard, which applies to equipment used with liquefied natural gas (LNG).
We assist in selecting and sizing the appropriate quick-closing valve according to the application.
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Liquid Fuels
KÜHME KVII-F Double Block and Bleed Unit ofr Gaseous Media
Insulation: vacuum and wool or vacuum and cryogel Other names: double‑jacketed pipe, LNG transfer pipe, LNG pipe, steel‑cased pipe‑in‑pipe
What is a steel casing pipe?
The steel casing pipe consists of the actual product pipe and the surrounding casing pipe. After installation, the space between the pipes is evacuated, which improves the thermal insulation. The phenomenon is based on the so‑called thermosiphon effect, where the vacuum prevents heat conduction between the pipes. In addition to the vacuum, insulation is present in the interspace to prevent heat transfer by radiation.
The product pipe is supported by the outer pipe with bearings, resulting in a relatively rigid structure. The pipe can be embedded directly into the ground without concrete pipe wells or, in crossings, a normally longer bridging span can be used.
Steel casing pipe selection
We assist with inquiries and procurement of a steel casing pipe that meets the requirements of your application. For more information, please ask our contacts.
For steam and condensate
A drawback of traditional steam and district heating pipes is their high heat losses over long transfer distances. FW-Fernwärme-Technik GmbH’s steel casing pipe achieves significant energy savings. Its heat losses are approximately 40–50% lower compared to a conventionally insulated steam pipe.
For cryogenic media
The triple-layer FW chamber steel casing pipe designed for cryogenic applications consists of a product pipe, a surrounding chamber pipe, and a protective pipe. The product and chamber pipes of the LNG pipe are made of austenitic stainless steel, thereby preventing cold transition. In ground installations, carbon steel is used as the outer protective pipe.
In addition to the vacuum, a cryogel bound to a fibrous mat is used as insulation. The pipe helps avoid condensation problems because, due to its excellent insulating properties, the outer surface of the outer pipe remains relatively warm. Furthermore, thanks to the vacuum, no condensing water is present in the space between the inner and outer pipes, so the insulation always remains completely dry.
There is insulation in the space between the inner pipe and the chamber pipe. The chamber pipe is supported by bearings on the protective pipe, allowing it to move freely during thermal expansion.
Sizes: from DN 20 Pressure classes: from PN 6 Actuators: pneumatic and electric Connection ends: between flanges, flanged, weld end, lug type Other names: actuator-operated butterfly valve
What is an actuator operated butterfly valve?
An actuator is installed on the butterfly valve, enabling the valve to be controlled from a location other than its immediate vicinity. Both pneumatic and electric actuators can be installed on butterfly valves.
Selection of actuator operated butterfly valves
Pneumatic actuators are preferred in all but the largest sizes. They are available either as dual-acting, where compressed air both opens and closes the valve, or as single-acting (so-called spring-return), whereby on loss of pressure the actuator’s closing spring either opens or closes the valve.
Most of the market-available electric rotary actuator models are suitable for butterfly valves. All actuator options come with limit and installation data and can additionally be connected to a bus.
We assist in selecting and sizing an actuator-operated butterfly valve that meets the requirements of your application.
Size classes: DN 80–1200, NPS 3”–24” Pressure classes: PN 10–100, ANSI 150/300 Temperature range: -196 °C…450 °C Materials: steel, stainless and acid-resistant steel, special materials Connection ends: between flanges, flanged, welded, lug type Other names: metal seated butterfly valve
What is a metal seated butterfly valve?
In metal seated butterfly valves, the sealing surface between the disc and the body is, as the name suggests, metal.
Because the pressure and especially temperature resistance properties of metal seated butterfly valves are clearly superior to those with a rubber seat, their range of applications is also significantly broader. The characteristics of a metal seated butterfly valve can be influenced by the degree of eccentricity.
Eccentricity of the butterfly valve
In an eccentric butterfly valve, the disc rotates off-center, as the name suggests. This achieves a higher surface pressure between the disc and the seal as well as a rapid decrease in surface pressure and friction when opening the valve. In simple terms, eccentricity results in higher tightness and a lower opening torque. With triple eccentricity, significantly higher surface pressure and sealing are achieved.
The first degree of eccentricity arises from the fact that the shaft is positioned behind the disc.
The second degree of eccentricity is achieved by placing the shaft to the side of the disc’s centerline.
The third degree of eccentricity is implemented by machining the sealing surface of either the disc or the body in an eccentric manner. Machining both achieves the aforementioned reduction in friction.
Typical applications for eccentric butterfly valves include: oil and gas production and processing, petrochemical industry, chemical industry, power plants, district heating, solar power plants, pulp and paper industry, steel industry, and sugar industry.
Choosing metal seated butterfly valves
We assist in selecting and sizing a butterfly valve that meets the requirements of your application. The installation options include between-flange, flanged, lug type (end flange) or welded models. Our triple eccentric butterfly valves are standardly of sealing class A, according to the EN 12266-1 standard.
The available ARI-ZETRIX- and RT Valves butterfly valves can be equipped with pneumatic or electric actuators.
For steam, condensate and process fluids
ARI-ZETRIX®, RT and AG offer triple eccentric and Högfors double eccentric valves. The metal seated butterfly valve is not only an on/off valve, but it is also suitable for specialized control applications.
For fuel applications, Fire-Safe valves are available, which have been fire safety tested according to the ISO 10497 standard or API 607 standard. They are also ATEX certified.
For the seals of the stem, certificates according to ISO 15848-1 or TA-Luft are available.
For cryogenic fluids
In cryogenic lines, high performance models, i.e. triple eccentric butterfly valves, are used.
The triple eccentric butterfly valve performs better in demanding conditions than simpler butterfly valves. In large sizes, the butterfly valve is lighter than other types of valves.
The butterfly valve can be of a top-entry design, meaning that the valve is installed in the pipe by welding, but it has a top hatch to ensure maintainability.
The German company HEROSE manufactures metal seated triple eccentric, that is, triple-offset butterfly valves suitable for cryogenic conditions.
Other: operating point up to 60 meters from the valve, allows cable bends, fire-resistant cable Alternate names: remote cable drive valve operator
What is a valve remote control device?
With a remote control device, valves located in dangerous or otherwise difficult-to-access places can be easily operated. The remote control device consists of two gear-driven operating units and a cable running between them. One operating unit is installed on top of the valve to be operated and the other where the valve is intended to be controlled from.
The remote control device is suitable for all valve models, whether screw or hand lever operated, and it is easy to install afterwards on an existing valve.
Selecting a valve remote control device
When constructing systems, valves cannot always be placed in locations optimal for operation; they are sometimes located on high pipe bridges, in low, narrow piping tunnels, or in areas where environmental conditions pose their own challenges to the normal operation of the valve.
If a valve placed in a challenging location is operated infrequently, its automation may be too costly. It is precisely for such cases that Smith Flow Control’s FlexiDrive manual remote control device, part of the Sofis Group, has been designed.
Thanks to the flexible cable, the operating point can be positioned up to 60 meters away from the valve itself. FlexiDrive installation sites may also include turns and bends of up to 720 degrees, which are not possible with chain wheels and extension bars.
In addition to the aforementioned pipe bridges, installations have been made on valves mounted on the walls of large terminal tanks and in the confined spaces of icebreakers. Installations have also been carried out, for example, in a nuclear power plant, where the operated valves are on the so-called radiation side and the operation is desired to be brought to a safe area.
We help select a remote control device that meets the requirements of the application. Ask our contacts for more information.
Heavy valves used in various industrial processes pose a challenge, especially from a safety perspective. Different types of turning levers are used, and unfortunately, minor – and sometimes even major – workplace accidents occur. Not to mention that operating a large wedge-slip valve from one extreme position to another is quite strenuous. Valve operating tools can make valve operation easier and safer.
Choosing a portable valve actuator
A new valve might be light, but over time it becomes heavier and heavier. Lubrication no longer helps, and replacement or automation is expensive.
We have good experience performing valve open and close operations using the operating tool.
There are two options available. In both cases, for example, compressed air is used as the power source, which easily provides the required torque.
See presentations for both options.
The advantage of the EasiDrive featured in the video is that it is a small, handy tool. It features a fixed platform that is mounted on top of any existing valve. You can see various options in the photographs above. The tool—the gun—is placed on this platform, and with a press of a button, you can operate the valve to open or close. The device has its own adjustment for the applied torque.
The advantage of the Power Wrench featured in the video is that no fixed platform for the tool is required; instead, as the video shows, the platform can be easily mounted onto the existing valve handwheel.
If you are interested in testing the device at your facility, we are happy to perform a demonstration. We have both tools in stock.
What are the safety devices intended for cryogenic liquefied gases?
Cryogenic intermediates refer to substances that are colder than -90°C. In principle, the safety devices for these intermediates are similar to other pressure devices, but extremely cold conditions impose their own special features on these safety devices.
What is needed for the protection of a storage tank containing cryogenic media?
Our German representative Protego has its own comprehensive product range for these safety devices. The devices, which Protego generally refers to as tank valves.
Tank valves
Illustration of safety devices for an ammonia storage tank.
In the picture, on both the left and right on top of the tank are pilot-operated over/under pressure valves VN-A-PCPF-NV. Pilot control prevents the valve from freezing.
Watch the operating principle of the valve in the video.
The over/under pressure valves on the right side of the tank are protected by a flame arrester (DA-SB).
On top of the tank, there is an emergency relief valve (V/SV), whose capacity is calculated for the scenario in which the tank would catch fire. At the bottom, the base safety valve (SI/DP) automatically closes the bottom valve if any damage occurs to the discharge line.
In addition, Protego manufactures internal safety valves for tanks. The PROTEGO SI/FI valve closes from inside the tank, so that no leakage occurs if the external shutdown mechanisms of the tank suffer damage. The valves can also be serviced, as only the mounting flange is welded to the tank. The external parts of the valve can be replaced without emptying the tank.
The design is slightly different depending on the liquefied gas (ammonia, ethylene, propylene, LNG) and additional information can be found in the PDF below.
We assist with the selection and sizing of safety devices according to the requirements of the application.
Other designations: Lockout, Tagout, Master lock, valve safety locks
What is a valve lockout system?
Work safety is fundamentally linked to the safe operation of processes. According to statistics, numerous industrial accidents are caused by so‐called human errors in operation. Either the wrong valve is operated, or it is assumed that the process valves are in a different position than they actually are.
To prevent such human operational errors, a program was developed in the United States by The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) called The Control of Hazardous Energy Source Standard, which now serves as an international standard for managing accident risks. In Finland, the concept known as Lockout/Tagout has become a useful term, which simply means reliably disconnecting the energy supply (Lockout) and marking the disconnection (Tagout).
At its simplest, incorrect operation can be attempted to be prevented by a “do not turn” sign, or by tying something to the valve that obstructs, or at least slows down, operation—a rope or some other contraption. However, safety locking is only considered achieved when operation is prevented by some type of lock. On this site, we present various options for implementing safety locks, ranging from simple chain locks to advanced Interlock safety locks, which can also create sequential orders for operating multiple valves.
Selection of a valve lockout system
The following flowchart helps determine whether a lock is needed at all for the target, and if so, what kind. For example, if it concerns a safety device, such as a dual-redundant safety valve, Tukes has determined that a chain lock does not eliminate human operational errors, but that an Interlock sequence is required at the site. The same applies if it is important that the valve is definitely 100% open or closed after operation.
By “sequence” it is meant that several valves are operated in a planned order one after the other. In these cases as well, the Interlock safety lock eliminates “human errors”.
Various locking cable locks or protective covers that lock hand wheels are simple and cost-effective ways to perform valve LOTO (Lockout/Tagout) safety locking. Lockout/Tagout means reliably disconnecting the energy supply (Lockout) and marking the disconnection (Tagout).
From Cable Lock to Hand Wheel and Handle Protective Cover
A Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) lock can be created by tying the valve’s hand wheel with a cable so that its operation becomes impossible. At its simplest, it can be implemented using CarSeal straps designed for industrial use, which operate on the principle of a cable tie and are therefore disposable.
A more advanced version is various cable locks that are secured with a mechanical key lock. The cables can be either fixed-length or adjustable. Multiple locks can be attached to a single cable, which can, for example, be color-coded to ensure that the lock is secured by two or more persons. The keys can be personalized so that a particular department or even an individual has their own lock, with which they lock and are the only one who can remove it.
The possibilities for key codings are unlimited.
Another option for performing the lock is to prevent the valve operation by protecting and mechanically locking the hand wheel or handle with a protective cover. In this case, the key system works the same as in chain locks.
Not only valves, but various other targets, such as electrical systems, can be locked with mechanical locks.
For managing keys and locks, our software offers various storage cabinets. An essential part of the LOTO system is the marking (Tagout) that must be performed in connection with the locks (Lockout), so that incoming personnel observe and understand that a part of the process has been intentionally isolated from normal operation.
These marking supplies are also available in our product range.
Valve interlocks
A more advanced method to lock a valve is the interlock. It eliminates the risks of manual operation by enforcing a pre-planned operational order, thereby ensuring the safety of both the process and the worker. The manufacturing of Interlock safety locks is handled by process safety equipment manufacturer Sofis.
How does the interlock work?
In a safety lock, a locking device is installed over either an existing or a new valve, which operates with a separate key. The key is typically stored in a dedicated key cabinet in the production facility’s control room. Without the key, the safety lock cannot be operated.
The keys for safety locks are typically marked with both text identifiers and color codes. The color code provides an at-a-glance indication of whether the valves in the process are in their default or abnormal positions.
It is even possible to automate the key management system. This is explained in more detail in our blog post.
See the operation of the locking device and an example of color coding in this video.
System locking options – sequences
Operations in processes often require that multiple valves be operated consecutively. In such situations, the strengths of interlock safety locks come to the forefront. It should be noted that, for example, TUKES has begun to require that in tanks with several safety valves, it must be ensured that not all backup devices are accidentally closed at the same time. This assurance is easily achieved with an Interlock locking system.
See a sequence example in the video.
Installation on existing valves
The Interlock safety lock is suitable for all valve models – including actuator-controlled valves – and for all nominal sizes. It is also easy to install retroactively. In such cases, our installers will measure the end-to-end dimensions of the old valve, upon which the factory manufactures an adapter piece to be placed between the locking device and the valve. Our installation team has undergone official factory training, so the installation and adjustment of safety locks is handled with ease.
We have also held a webinar on interlock safety locks, which you can watch below.
Size classes: DN 15-500 Pressure classes: DIN PN 16-160, ANSI 150-2500 Materials: A105 (C22.8), WCB 1304, 316, 316T, Hastelloy B or C, titanium, duplex Seals: Pentafite (self-lubricating metal seal), stellite Operating temperatures: -148 °C…+800 °C Connection ends: between flanges, flanged, threaded, weld ends Other: several options for hard-coated balls Other designations: metal seated ball valve
What is a Metal Seated Ball Valve?
Metal seated ball valves are an excellent choice when a valve is required to have rapid operating capability and light weight, while also offering high temperature resistance.
Since process media come in many varieties and pressures combined with high temperatures can be very challenging, it is absolutely essential that the function and material of every individual component of the metal seated ball valve are carefully considered and selected.
Selection of the Metal Seated Ball Valve
An extensive range of pressure, temperature, and material options, along with the long experience of our equipment manufacturers, assists in selecting a cost-effective valve for different process applications.
Valves are available in 2-way versions for on/off operation and 3-way versions for diverting services. Antistatic properties comply with the BS 5146 standard and the construction with TA-Luft TÜV.
Our ball valves are available with manual, pneumatic or electric actuators.
PENTA Valves’ valves generally adhere to the Fire Safe EN ISO 10497 – API607 V test requirements. Antistatic properties, in turn, comply with the BS 5146 standard and TA-Luft TÜV.
In our program, you can find valves from manufacturers such as OMB Spa, PENTA Valves, and ARMATURY Group.
ARMATURY Group’s (AG) metal seated ball valve with a movable seal (see brochure) in size classes DN 200–1400 is supported in its design. It is ideally suited for consuming or small molecule media, because the ball and the seal do not slide against each other. When opening, the ball and the seal separate linearly before the ball rotates – the reverse occurs when closing. The seal surface is controlled by the actuator.
The seal is pulled away from the ball prior to operation, minimizing wear and operating torque. Once the valve is closed, the seal is pressed against the ball. The sealing force does not depend on the pressure difference, so the valve achieves full tightness even at very low pressure differences.
The valve is excellent for dry and difficult-to-seal gases, as the seal and the ball do not slide against each other and the sealing force is always high.
We assist in sizing and selecting the appropriate ball valve for each application.
Manually operated globe valves are durable shut-off valves. Their sealing element consists of a wedge-shaped disc that seals tightly against the seat. Globe valves cause a slight pressure drop in the pipeline, which is important to consider when selecting a valve. Globe valves open slowly, preventing pressure surges. Globe valves are categorized into packing-sealed and jacket-sealed valves.
The jacket seal is a kind of double safety measure in addition to the packing seal, preventing stem leakages and fugitive emissions. This is an excellent feature when considering valve maintenance requirements and the valve’s suitability for hazardous fluids such as hot oil, chlorine, or hydrofluoric acid. The jacket prevents process fluid from reaching the packing, making the valve more environmentally friendly and safer. The pull nut in the bonnet allows for the vertical movement of the stem (the stem does not rotate as in packing-sealed valves), so that the valve threads are protected from external contamination and corrosion.
Watch our webinar on globe valves.
Selection of the Manually Operated Globe Valve
When sizing a globe valve, it is important to know the process fluid, temperature, pressure, and the pressure differential across the valve.
Various material options are available, ranging from cast iron to acid-resistant steel and nickel alloys. Our product portfolio covers EN and ANSI valves for both low-pressure and high-pressure systems.
For Process Fluids
Our product range includes ARI-Armaturen’s globe valves available in welded versions with both EN and ASME flanged options. OMB specializes in small, compact shut-off valves, and our selection also includes special materials. For challenging fluids, we offer Descote globe valves in our portfolio.
When dealing with toxic or otherwise environmentally harmful fluids, it is important to pay attention to the fugitive emission level of the stem seal. A low-emission valve is both user and environmentally friendly. In addition, leakage emissions through the stem seal represent a loss of process fluid. Besides low-emission models with containment seals (ISO 15848, API 622, API 624), our range also includes jacket-sealed models for process conditions where it is crucial to ensure that process fluid does not escape into the environment through the containment seal.
For Steam and Condensate
The same general principles apply to globe valves suitable for steam and condensate as described above for process fluids. The brochures include, among others,
ARI FABA®-Plus jacket-sealed globe valves
ARI STOBU® packing-sealed globe valves
ARI FABA® -Supra I and C jacket-sealed globe valves
The offering is largely the same as for other process fluids.
For hydrocarbon applications, packing-sealed valves with low-emission packing are available. The stem seal is type-tested, for example, according to ISO 15848-1 or TA-Luft. In a jacket-sealed valve, the stem is additionally sealed with a welded metal jacket, which makes the packing pressure-free and the valve itself more responsive. No fugitive emissions occur through the stem seal of the jacket-sealed valve.
For Cryogenic Fluids
For cryogenic applications, the globe valve is made of materials that are resistant to cold, such as stainless steel. The cryo valve has an extended stem to ensure that the stem seal remains intact. The cryo valve must be clean and dry, as freezing water, for example, can damage the valve.
Globe valves are ideally suited for shut-off and control applications with cryogenic fluids. Due to their design, globe valves always incur a certain amount of flow resistance. The valve does not have an intermediate chamber where process fluid could become trapped.
Our product portfolio includes a wide range of shut-off, quick shut-off, and control globe valves for cryogenic applications from HEROSE and KÜHMEL.
