EPC Interactive Guide: Anti-Surge Valve Review

EPC Interactive Guide: Anti-Surge Valve Design Review

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Ensure all necessary documentation is present, complete, and compliant with project specifications and international standards.

EPC Documentation Flow infographic
Status Check Point Key Considerations
Vendor Document Register (VDR) Confirm all required documents are listed and their submission schedule aligns with the project timeline.
Datasheet Cross-check with process data, P&ID, and control philosophy. Ensure all fields are complete.
Piping and Instrumentation Diagram (P&ID) Verify valve tag number, type, size, fail-safe position, and associated instrumentation are correctly represented.
Compliance to Standards (API 670) Verify adherence to relevant standards, especially API 670 for Machinery Protection Systems.
Material Certificates (EN 10204 3.1) Request and review material certificates for all wetted parts.
Inspection and Test Plan (ITP) Review the ITP for necessary tests and witness points for EPC/client.

The correct sizing is fundamental. An undersized valve can't prevent surge; an oversized one causes instability.

Compressor map with surge control line
Status Check Point Key Considerations
Sizing Calculations (Cv) Independently verify the flow coefficient ($C_v$) for all operating cases (start-up, normal, trip).
Velocity and Noise Check exit velocity to prevent erosion and ensure noise is within limits (typically < 85 dBA). Review noise attenuation trim design.
Choked Flow Verify that the valve avoids choked flow conditions during normal modulating service.

The mechanical design must be robust enough for demanding service conditions.

Close-up of a robust industrial valve
Status Check Point Key Considerations
Valve Body and Trim Materials Verify materials are suitable for the process fluid, temperature, and pressure. Check for corrosion/erosion potential.
Trim Design For high-pressure drops, confirm a multi-stage or cage-guided trim is used to prevent cavitation, flashing, and excessive noise.
Seat Leakage Class Confirm the seat leakage class (e.g., ANSI/FCI 70-2 Class IV, V, or VI) is appropriate for the application. Tight shut-off is often critical.

The speed and accuracy of the actuator are paramount for an effective anti-surge response.

Diagram of a high-speed valve actuator and positioner
Status Check Point Key Considerations
Stroking Speed CRITICAL: Verify the valve can stroke from fully closed to the required open position in 1-2 seconds.
Fail-Safe Action Confirm the fail-safe action (e.g., Fail Open) matches the P&ID and control philosophy. This is a critical safety function.
Positioner Type Ensure a high-performance, fast, and accurate digital positioner with advanced diagnostics is specified.
Volume Boosters / Quick Exhaust Verify inclusion and proper sizing of volume boosters or quick exhaust valves to achieve the required stroking speed.

Thorough testing provides the ultimate verification of the valve's performance and build quality.

Status Check Point Key Considerations
Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) Protocol Ensure the FAT includes hydrostatic test, seat leakage test, and functional tests.
FAT Witness: Stroking Speed Test CRITICAL WITNESS POINT: The stroking speed test must be witnessed by the EPC/client to confirm compliance.
Painting and Coating Verify that the painting and coating specifications meet the project's environmental and durability requirements.

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