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Announcements
Posted by: anonymous on 03/29/2009 09:37 PM
Updated by: anonymous on 03/29/2009 09:37 PM
Expires: 01/01/2014 12:00 AM
New check valve significantly reduces operating costs
A next-generation Non-Slam Nozzle Check Valve has been developed by global pipe connection and flow control products company SMX International, providing a faster dynamic performance than previously thought possible, and the lowest pressure loss of any valve currently on the market – significant performance advantages that result in substantial through-life cost saving benefits. The new valve is now available.
The exceptional performance characteristics of this new valve result in superior protection of pumps, compressors and other plant components from destructive return flow and hammer, coupled with reliable, maintenance-free operation, and the lowest life-cycle cost (LCC) of any check valve currently available.
Dynamic performance has been maximised by capitalising on the Venturi effect (which creates a low pressure field behind the valve disc, adding a large hydrostatic component to the opening force), achieved using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to optimise the internal flow contour. This has allowed the introduction of a novel and powerful dual-spring closing action (patent pending), with the installation of a strong secondary spring (five times the force of the single spring employed in traditional nozzle check valves), for immediate rapid closure in the event of reverse flow.
This powerful closing action is combined with an ultra-short valve stroke (a 25% reduction on existing nozzle check valve designs), minimised mass of the moving parts, and ultra-low friction metal precision bearings. An ultra-light webbed valve disc has been developed using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) which, together with a hollow shaft, makes the moving parts some 50% lighter than in existing designs. The metal bearings are coated with a high-tech PVD solid lubricant coating, reducing friction to 25% of traditional Teflon bearings. These features combine to produce the valve’s exceptional dynamic performance, closing rapidly before any appreciable reverse flow occurs, thereby minimising slam, hammer effects and pressure transient through the piping system, with long-term maintenance benefits.
The new valve design also features an improved flow profile to minimise hydraulic or pressure loss, by optimising the ‘aerodynamic’ characteristics of the diffuser contour and minimising recirculation zones. The extremely efficient diffuser produces a high degree of pressure recovery, and exceptionally low pressure loss. This increases transmission efficiency and reduces energy consumption, with environmental benefits and minimised life cycle costs of the valve (at least 15% lower than traditional nozzle check valves, 75% lower than swing check valves, over a typical 15 year life cycle).
Additional areas of design optimisation include a separate diffuser body (traditional nozzle check valves have an integral diffuser and body) so the valve can be offered for special applications such as corrosive environments with an internal coating or weld overlay, rather than necessitating a valve body in costly exotic materials. The springs are installed in the hollow shaft, so they are replaceable without major valve disassembly. And the all-metal assembly, with no elastomers, makes the valve readily suitable for high temperature and cryogenic applications. Additionally, the metal-to-metal seal provides a tight shut-off, and the robust self-lubricating metal bearings guarantee maintenance-free, reliable operation.
“The development of this next-generation Non-Slam Nozzle Check Valve combines our in-depth knowledge and experience of nozzle check valve fundamentals with innovative engineering to produce an optimised design, using the very latest advanced engineering design tools,” SMX International chief executive Rob Muddiman states. “Its exceptional performance provides improved protection of mechanical equipment, and significantly reduces operating costs. We have already seen massive interest in this valve from process plant and pipeline operators we’ve shown it to globally, and now that it’s available we anticipate strong demand.”
Available in sizes from 2 to 60 inches diameter and pressure ratings from ASME Class 150 to 4500, and up to API 10,000, this new nozzle check valve design has significant potential applications in natural gas, water, LNG and oil pipelines, as well as refineries, chemical and petrochemical plants, among others. Suitable for horizontal and vertical installation, it performs exceptionally well in centrifugal and reciprocating compressor and pumping systems, and is fire-safe, and suitable for high temperature, cryogenic and subsea applications.
Further details of the new Non-Slam Nozzle Check Valve from SMX International are available from www.smx-international.com, or +44 2920 732 391.
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