Showing posts with label Nebraska. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Nebraska. Show all posts

Guided Wave Radar Transmitters: Accurate and Reliable Level Measurement for the Widest Choice of Installation Options and Applications

guided wave radar level

Guided wave radar transmitters are widely used across different industries. These devices with their simple installation and trouble-free operations help industrial companies save time and money. They are ideal for a large number of process applications ranging from simple to complex.

How Do Guided Wave Radar Transmitters Work?


Guided wave radar transmitters rely on microwave pulses. Since microwaves are not affected by dust, pressure, temperature variations, and viscosity, this type of transmitter produces highly accurate results. 

A low-energy microwave pulse is sent down a probe, and a part of it is reflected back when the pulse hits the process media. The liquid level is directly proportional to the time-domain reflectometry. The time when the pulse is launched and received back is measured to determine the distance from the surface of the media. 

Types of Guided Wave Radar Level Transmitters


Guided wave radar level transmitters are available in different probe configurations. Selecting the right probe is important for successful implementation of the device. While manufacturers offer a range of guided wave radars, most are derived from the three basic probe configurations: single element, twin element, and coaxial.

Single element probe — The single element probe is the most widely used and least efficient device. The device is popular since it is more resistant to the coating of the liquid. 

Twin element probe — The twin element probe is a good, general purpose probe that is generally used in long-range applications. They are ideal in situations where flexible probes are important for successful reading. 

Coaxial probe — The coaxial probe configuration is the most efficient guided wave radar level transmitters. The probes are used in more challenging low-dielectric applications. 

Benefits of Guided Wave Radar Level Transmitters


Dielectric Constant and Reflectivity - Guided WaveRadar (GWR)
(Courtesy of Schneider Electric Foxboro)
Guided wave radar level transmitters provide a range of benefits in different applications. The concentration of the measuring signal is strong and clean. This is due to the narrow path of the signal propagation that reduces the chances of impact by stray signals due to obstacles or construction elements inside the tank. 

Another benefit of guided wave radar level transmitters is that they are easy to install. No mounting holes are required to install the device. This results in cost savings for the organization. The waveguide can be formed to follow the tank’s contours or mounted at an angle. 

The device is ideal in situations where an interface measurement is required. The measuring signals can penetrate the medium deeply, resulting in more accurate results. The waveguide technology is suitable for applications where the medium is subjected to heavy vapors, foam, and dust. 

Guided wave instruments can detect changes in dielectric consents on the boundary of a property. The device can be configured to detect level at both the top and the bottom of a layer of emulsion. 

Industrial Application of Guided Wave Radar


Guided wave radar level transmitters are increasingly being used in process industries. The sensors are used in situations that previously employed ultrasonic, hydrostatics, and capacitance. The accuracy specification of the basic model range is up to ±5mm, while the accuracy of the advanced models is up to ±2mm. 

The device is generally used in industries to take level readings. The readings are used for local indication and visualization in control systems. 

Moreover, guided wave radar level transmitters are also used for managing liquid inventory, determining safety limits, dry run protection, and leak detection. Other applications of guided wave radar level transmitters include communicating low limits to suppliers, automated ordering systems, and streamlining the logistics process. 

Guided radar level measurement is also suitable for bulk solids. The surface type is not restricted to liquids since the reflected waves are guided easily through any medium. Foam formation and turbulent liquid surfaces and different angled surfaces (as is the case with bulk solids) don’t influence the accuracy of the reading.

Selection of Guided Wave Radar Level Transmitters


Selection of guided wave radar level transmitters should be based on the requirements of the task. Generally, the rigid single element probe configuration is ideal for angled installations for flowing liquids. The dual flexible wire probe is suitable for most other common applications. 

A coaxial probe configuration is recommended for liquids that are cleaner with low dielectric constant and with turbulence on the product’s surface. This type of guided wave radar device is also recommended for installations where the probe is near the tank wall or other obstacles. 

Make sure that the device can withstand the range of temperature within the tank. Most GWR devices are rated up to 850 deg F or 450 deg C. You should select a device with added signal strength since this will result in increased reliability and accuracy of the devices. 

Guided wave radar level transmitter with dynamic vapor compensation is recommended where a high level of accuracy is required under a high-pressure environment. The measurement taken from the device can compensate for changes in vapor dielectric, which results in improved accuracy. 

Other factors that should be considered include mounting and proximity. Single probe configuration can be installed almost anywhere. But the single probe configuration can only to apply to specific situations. 

Lastly, the probe length of the device should be of the right length. The length should be according to the measurement rate. This is an important consideration as it can help in ensuring accurate reading with minimum chances of an error. 

Guided wave radar level transmitters can also be used with an agitator. However, certain things must be considered prior to use the device. The probe must be prevented from contacting the agitator blades. Make sure that you confirm the ability of the probe to withstand the force inside the medium. This is important since turbulent on the surface may decrease the accuracy of the measurement. You can install the device in a bypass chamber or stilling well for an agitated tank.

For more information on guided wave level transmitters, contact Swanson Flo by calling 800-288-7926 or by visiting their web site at https://swansonflo.com.

Hazardous Area Classifications in the USA

Hazardous Area Classifications
Understanding Hazardous Area classifications is critical.
An important aspect of safe installation is to determine the hazardous area classification in the area. Checking the area classification is also important for safe electrical wiring. The hazardous area classification should be known by personnel before starting work in an area.

Hazardous areas refer to locations with a possible risk of explosion or fire due to dangerous atmosphere. The hazards can be associated with flammable vapors or gases, ignitable fibers, and combustible dusts.

Different hazardous area classifications exist in the North America and Europe. Generally, the National Electric Code (NEC) classifications govern hazardous areas in the US. While in Europe, hazardous area classification has been specified by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

CLASS
NATURE OF HAZARDOUS MATERIAL
CLASS I
Hazardous area due the presence of flammable vapors or gases in sufficient quantities to produce ignitable mixtures and cause an explosion.
Examples include natural gas and liquified petroleum.
CLASS II
Hazardous area due the presence of conductive or combustible dusts in sufficient quantities to produce ignitable mixtures and cause an explosion.
Examples include aluminum and magnesium powders.
CLASS III
Hazardous area due the presence of flammable fibers or other flying debris that collect around lighting fixtures, machinery, and other areas in sufficient quantities to produce ignitable mixtures and cause an explosion.
Examples include sawdust and flyings



Division groups hazardous areas based on the chances of an explosion due to the presence of flammable materials in the area.

DIVISION
LIKELIHOOD OF HAZARDOUS MATERIAL
DIVISION 1
Areas where there is a high chance of an explosion due to hazardous material that is present periodically, intermittently, or continuously under normal operation.
DIVISION 2
Areas where there is a low chance of an explosion under normal operation.


Group categorizes areas based on the type of flammable or ignitable materials in the environment. As per NEC guidelines, Groups A to D classify gasses while Groups E to G classify dust and flying debris.
GROUP
TYPE OF HAZARDOUS MATERIAL IN THE AREA
GROUP A
Acetylene.
GROUP B
Area contains flammable gas, liquid, or liquid produced vapor with any of the following characteristics:
  • Minimum Ignition Current (MIC) value equal to or less than 0.40
  • Maximum Experimental Safe Gap (MESG) value equal to or less than 0.45 mm
  • Combustible gas with more than 30 percent volume
Examples include hydrogen, ethylene oxide, acrolein, propylene oxide.

GROUP C
Area contains flammable gas, liquid, or liquid produced vapor with any of the following characteristics:
  • Minimum Ignition Current (MIC) value between 0.40 and 0.80
  • Maximum Experimental Safe Gap (MESG) value greater than 0.75 mm
Examples include carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulphide, ether, cyclopropane, morphline, acetaldehyde, isoprene, and ethylene.

GROUP D
Area contains flammable gas, liquid, or liquid produced vapor with any of the following characteristics:
  • Minimum Ignition Current (MIC) value greater than 0.80
  • Maximum Experimental Safe Gap (MESG) value greater than 0.75 mm
Examples include ammonia, gasoline, butane, benzene, hexane, ethanol, methane, methanol, natural gas, propane, naphtha, and vinyl chloride.

GROUP E
Area contains metal dusts such as magnesium, aluminum, chromium, bronze, titanium, zinc, and other combustible dusts whose abrasiveness, size, and conductivity present a hazard.

GROUP F
Area contains carbonaceous dusts such as charcoal, coal black, carbon black, coke dusts and others that present an explosion hazard.
GROUP G
Area contains combustible dusts not classified in Groups E and F.
Examples include starch, grain, flour, wood, plastic, sugar, and chemicals.


NOTE: This post serves only as a guide to acquaint the reader with hazardous area classifications in the USA. It is imperative to discuss your instrumentation, valve, or process equipment requirement with a qualified applications expert prior to installing any electrical device inside of any hazardous area.

800-288-7926 

Flowserve Valtek Control Valve Packing Adjustments


Flowserve Valtek offers packing in many different types, styles, and materials for a wide range of applications. One thing they all have in common is that they require periodic adjustment to ensure optimal performance. Adjusting packing is a necessary and important valve maintenance practice. Neglecting packing can lead to a leak path formation that may be impossible to repair without packing replacement. Packing leaks should be addressed as soon as possible to ensure safety and optimal reliability. This video demonstrates basic packing adjustments and procedures.

For more information about Flowserve Valtek valves, contact Swanson Flo by calling 800-288-7926 or by visiting https://swansonflo.com.

Wireless Networking in Industrial Plants

Wireless Networking in Industrial Plants
Wireless networking serves as the ideal alternative to high-cost industrial wiring. The setup also provides superior performance, solving the problem of electrical surges that result from field wiring.

Using a wireless system can result in an efficient supply of networking resources to field devices. The system facilitates an effective exchange of data between the host server and the field devices in the industrial setting.

Only a few industry-grade wireless field sensors have been offered so far in the year 2019. The reason for this is mainly a lack of information regarding its benefits. Once the cost-saving aspects of wireless networking become known in the industrial setting, it will likely spur the demand in the market and lead to an influx of innovative wireless devices for different field applications.

Benefits of Wireless Networking Systems in the Industrial Setting Explored 

Wireless technologies offer great value over wired solutions. A reduction in cost is just one of the many benefits of switching to the wireless networking system. There are many benefits, including enhanced management of legacy systems that were previously not possible with a wired networking connection.

Here is an overview of some of the value-added benefits of adopting wireless networking in industrial plants.

Reduced Installation Costs 

Savings in installation costs is the key benefit of a wireless networking system. The cost of installing a wireless solution is significantly lower as compared to its wired counterpart.

Installing a wireless network requires less planning. Extensive surveys are not required to route the wires to control rooms. This reduced installation cost is the main reason industrial setups should consider going wireless instead of having a wired networking system.

Improved Information Accuracy 

Adopting wireless networking also results in improved accuracy of information. The wireless system is not prone to interferences. As a result, the system ensures consistent and timely transfer of information from one node to another.

Enhanced Flexibility 

Enhanced flexibility is another reason for deploying wireless networking solutions in an industrial setting. Additional points can be awarded easily in an incremental manner. The wireless system can also integrate with legacy systems without any issues.

Operational Efficiencies

Migrating to wireless networking can help in improving operational efficiencies as well. Plant managers can troubleshoot and diagnose issues more easily. The system facilitates predictive maintenance by allowing the monitoring of remote assets.

Human Safety 

Another critical factor that should influence the decision to migrate to wireless networking is the human safety factor. Wireless technologies allow safer operations, reducing exposure to harmful environments. For instance, a wireless system can be used in taking a reading and adjusting valves without having to go to the problematic area to take measurements.

Efficient Information Transfer

Another advantage is that the time required to reach a device is reduced. This results in a more efficient transfer of information between network segments that are geographically separated. The industry wireless networking standards use IP addresses to allow remote access to data from field devices.

With wireless networking systems, readings can be taken more frequently that can help in early detection and reduction of possible incidents.

Wireless Networking Standards for Industrial Plants

The ISO100 standards committee has introduced a whole set of new standards for wireless communication in industries. The first standards include the ISA100.11 that pertains to processing data transfer while fulfilling limited control needs in the industries.

Wireless Networking in Industrial Plants
Hybrid architecture using WirelessHART mesh networking coupled
with ultra-efficient BLE Instrument Area Networks.
Image courtesy of Foxboro Schneider Electric.
ANSI and ISA have adopted the ISA100.11a standards for wireless communication in process industries. However, the standard has yet to pass through the international IEC standardization. This is due to the fact that ISA100.11a and IEC’s WirelessHART standards address the same market.

Technical Basis 

ISA100.11a is based on IEEE 802.15.4:2006 standard, similar to WirelessHART with 15 to 16 channels in the ISM band 2.4GHz range. However, the former can be used for a wider networking application in the industrial sector such as peer-to-peer messaging and network segmentation.

Distinct Hopping Patterns

Each segment in the network may use a distinct hopping pattern, unlike the WirelessHART. Moreover, the network segment has a dedicated time slot that results in the formation of large networks with overlapping segments.

Mesh Networking 

Another important point to note is that the ISA1001.11a wireless networking standard for industrial process makes use of mesh networking, which is similar to WirelessHART. However, the standard also allows devices at the network’s edge to not route information to different devices. This results in increased security that prevents unauthorized access to networks.

While not being technically different, the details of the two standards set them apart. However, the IS100.12 is already in development, and it will reduce the divergence in specifications between WirelessHART and ISA100.11a.

Challenges in Adopting Industrial Wireless Networking

Industrial wireless communication technology is a work in progress. A lot of work is required to address specific technical challenges for adopting the networking solution. Some of the challenges include evaluation and communication of the wireless technologies that are available for industrial concerns.

Another challenge in the adoption of wireless technology is solving the issues of latency or time synchronization. This is important to ensure the reliability of data transferred in the industrial setting.

Based on the challenges identified, here are three key suggestions for implementing wireless technology in the industrial setting.

  • Create a science-based methodology for measuring the performance of wireless communication
  • Create guidelines for the deployment of wireless networking in an industrial environment
  • Address issues of latency in systems with high-reliability aspects with error rates less than 10 percent

Key Takeaway

Wireless networking is an enabling technology that can result in improved operational efficiency in the industrial systems. The technology can improve control and safety and lead to enhanced cost savings.

Adoption of the wireless networking system creates huge potential for increased operational efficiencies. The system can reduce installation cost, enable enhanced monitoring, reduce risks, and improve profitability.

For more information on industrial wireless networking, contact Swanson Flo by calling 800-288-7926 or by visiting https://swansonflo.com.

Swanson Flo Has You Covered


Founded in 1960, Swanson Flo has long maintained our position as an industry leader in process automation with unmatched project success leveraging industry preferred products and services. Our mission is to provide innovative process control solutions for engineers, managers and maintenance professionals through quality equipment and experienced application engineering.

Swanson Flo
https://swansonflo.com
800-288-7926

An Excellent Industrial Valve Glossary for the New Engineer, Technician, Maintenance Person or Buyer


Here's a great resource (courtesy of Jordan Valve) for the new process engineer, plant maintenance person, industrial valve buyer, or service technician. This document is called "A Glossary of 864 Valve Terms". This may be the most comprehensive valve glossary we've ever seen. We hope you find it useful.


The Flowserve Valtek MaxFlo 4 Eccentric Rotary Plug Control Valve

The Flowserve Valtek MaxFlo 4 control valve is a high performance eccentric rotary plug valve designed for the process industry. It features a large capacity, standard hardened trim and superior shaft blow-out protection. This valve is available in sizes 1 through 12 inches, ASME Class 150, 300 and 600 as well as DIN PN 10, PN16, PN 25, PN40 and PN63.

An optional ISA 75.08.01 or DIN EN 558 series 1 long-pattern body makes this valve an easy drop-in replacement for a globe control valve.

Schneider Electric Foxboro Pressure Transmitter Models 05S/10S/50S


Available in absolute pressure, differential pressure and gauge pressure, the new Schneider Electric Foxboro Models 05S/10S/50S pressure transmitters are designed to make your process more profitable by giving you the opportunity to select your transmitter at the best ratio of performance/price for your application.

Innovative FoxCal™ technology, accuracy expressed as a percentage of reading, 400:1 turndown, Safety SIL2 certification, are some of the exceptional features in the 05S/10S/50S family.
For more information, contact:

Swanson Flo
https://swansonflo.com
800-288-7926

Types of Electrical Connectors Used for Hamilton Process Analytics Sensors

VP – This is a common connector used throughout the Hamilton sensor product line. VP is abbreviation for “VarioPin”. The VP designation often includes a number referring to the number of exposed poles on connector head. Example VP6 = 6 pole.





K8 connectors are typically used on pH / ORP sensors which lack temperature compensation. These connectors have a two pole design comprised of the center core and outer metallic threaded connection.




S7 & S8 – S7 and S8 connectors are typically found on sensors which no temperature compensation. They are the same basic design however S8 connectors have PG13.5 mounting threads, while S7 connectors do not. These connectors are recessed thus care must be taken to avoid moisture getting trapped which could lead to a short circuit.




M12 - Metallic threaded M12 connectors are found on Dissolved Oxygen Sensors and Cell Density products. M12 adapters have either 4 or 8 poles hidden within the socket. Since the poles are recessed avoid getting moisture inside the connection.





T82 – The T82 connector is sometimes known as a D4 connector. It uses a twist lock design to secure the cable to the sensor. These connectors are less common.





Memosens – These inductive electrical connectors are only found on digital pH sensors using Memosens technology. They use a twist lock design to affix the cable. There are no exposed metallic
connections on Memosens connectors.


For more information on Hamilton ProcessAnalytics contact Swanson Flo.
https://swansonflo.com
800-288-7926

A Visual Understanding of Steam Induced Water Hammer


When improperly drained of condensate in a high pressure steam main fills with condensate and completely surrounds the steam, an implosion takes place causing devastating water hammer.

Draining condensate and keeping it away from the steam by using proper steam trapping equipment will prevent this from happening.

The following video, courtesy of TLV, dramatically demonstrates the principle behind water hammer and its potentially devastating effects.

Swanson Flo
https://swansonflo.com
800-288-7926

Flowserve Valves - Kammer Control Valves

Kammer Control ValvesFLOWSERVE Kämmer manufactures special application and general service control valves and actuators, which are used extensively in the chemical, petrochemical, power, petroleum, pulp & paper, pharmaceutical, food processing and cryogenic industries.

FLOWSERVE Kämmer pneumatic actuators are widely known for their versatile diaphragm design, easy installation and simplified maintenance. When compared to other manufacturers’ diaphragm actuator designs, Kämmer actuators have much higher thrust capabilities, feature a very compact design and are lighter in weight. They also feature a field reversible design that requires no additional parts.

Download the Kammer Control Valve Product Profile Here

Mounting the Logix 3800 Digital Positioner on the Valtek Mark One Linear Control Valve


Compatible with linear and rotary valves and actuators, the Logix 3800 digital positioner offers industry-leading embedded measurement, data reduction and diagnostic functionalities. It  features powerful diagnostics that identify field problems and expedite corrective actions to ensure reduced return-to-operation times.

The Valtek Mark One globe control valve offers superior performance in liquid and gaseous services, while also permitting easy, fast and inexpensive maintenance.

This video details how to mount the Logix 3800 positioner on the Mark One valve.

For more information about Flowserve valve and valve automation products, contact Swanson Flo by calling 800-288-7926 or visit their website at https://swansonflo.com.

Understanding Cavitation in Valves

Download the Flowserve Cavitation document here.

According to Wikipedia, "Cavitation is the formation of vapor cavities in a liquid, small liquid-free zones ("bubbles" or "voids"), that are the consequence of forces acting upon the liquid. It usually occurs when a liquid is subjected to rapid changes of pressure that cause the formation of cavities in the liquid where the pressure is relatively low. When subjected to higher pressure, the voids implode and can generate an intense shock wave."

Cavitation presents serious concerns to engineers and specifiers of  control valves. Understanding ways to mitigate cavitation is important. Flowserve has put together this excellent document on understanding cavitation and offers solutions on reducing or eliminating its effects.

Comprehensive Steam in Place (SIP) Whitepaper Available

Steriflow, a manufacturer of high purity control valves, pressure regulators, piping specialties, and steam specialties has authored a comprehensive overview of SIP, including existing components, piping design, and the new technology used to reduce common problem occurrences.

What are the rules and common piping practices employed to ensure that steam sterilization occurs on time without fail? What are SIP temperature validation alarms, or faults? Why do they occur? How does thermostatic steam trap operation affect the occurrence of temperature validation faults? What new technologies are available to mitigate common SIP problems? Specific answers to these questions will be covered in this white paper.

Get your copy of the "Steam in Place (SIP)" whitepaper here.

Table of Contents:
  • What Is SIP?
  • Fundamentals Of Process Equipment Steam Sterilization
  • Sanitary Balanced Port Thermostatic Steam Trap Operation
  • Validation Temperature Alarms Caused By High Subcooling Trap Operation
  • Problem Remediation
  • What Is A Sanitary Subcooled Condenser?
  • The SSC Series Explained Special SIP Applications For Large Vessels
  • Special SIP Applications: Conventional SIP Process Design For Larger Vessels
  • Special SIP Applications: Problems With Conventionally Designed SIP Drains For Large Vessels
  • Special SIP Applications: New Solution For SIP Design For Larger Vessels
Swanson Flo
800-288-7926 

Differential Pressure Gauge Designed for Harsh Environments

Ashcroft F5509/F6509
Ashcroft F5509/F6509
The Ashcroft F5509/F6509 differential pressure gauges are used for monitoring differential pressure between two separate pressure sources. Designed for harsh environments, these models provide high reliability and safety. A perfect solution for challenging application and installation requirements.

The F5509/F6509 differential gauges are ideal where safe and reliable pressure measurement is essential:

Process Control Markets:
  • Refineries 
  • Chemical and Petrochemical Plants
  • Water and Wastewater Pressure Control
  • Mining and Metals
  • Filter, Level and Flow Measurement
For more information about any Ashcroft product, contact Swanson Flo by calling 800-288-7926 or by visiting https://swansonflo.com.

Full Service Valve Automation


From simple pneumatically or electrically actuated valves, to fully automated critical valve systems, Swanson Flo delivers tested, certified, and extremely reliable product every time. Actuated valve assemblies precisely engineered for the best fit, highest performance, and optimal life.

With decades of combined experience and knowledge, Swanson Flo technicians match state-of-art components with best-in-class manufacturers and deliver carefully crafted valve packages.

Swanson Flo customers always receive the highest quality and best value possible. Their strong reputation was built upon:
  • The largest, most comprehensive facility in the Midwest.
  • In-house capabilities for all electric, pneumatic and electro-hydraulic actuators.
  • Experienced design engineering and fabrication.
  • Support for assembly of all valve, actuator, monitor and positioner technologies.
  • Complete solution for testing and serialization.
800-288-7926

The Basics of Control Valve Actuators

Flowserve Valtek Control Valve
Control Valve
(Flowserve Valtek)
Understanding control valve operation is very important to for anyone considering a career in process engineering, in plant maintenance, or process design engineering.

Control valve actuators control fluid in a pipe by varying the orifice size through which the fluid flows. Control valves contain two major components: the valve body and the valve actuator. The valve body provides the fluid connections and a movable restrictor comprised of a valve stem and plug that is in contact with the fluid that varies the flow. The valve actuator is the component that physically moves the restrictor to vary the fluid flow.

The video below introduces the viewer to basic control valve operation concepts and the basic types of actuators.

Worcester Controls Valve and Actuator Product Catalog

Here is a new Product Catalog for Flowserve Worcester Control industrial ball valves, pneumatic actuators and electric actuators, courtesy of Swanson Flo.  These include standard flanged ball valves, ANSI and DIN specifications in reduced and full bore, three-piece valves for cryogenic, high pressure, steam, diverter or sampling duty, high integrity valves, multi-way designs, modulating controls or customized solutions.

Process Instrumentation for the Chemical Industry

Process Instrumentation for the Chemical Industry
Process Instrumentation for the Chemical Industry (Foxboro - Schneider Electric)
From petrochemicals to agrochemicals, industrial gases to plastics, pigments, and more, the industry that manufactures, processes, transports, and stores thousands of hazardous materials every day requires one thing above all – absolute confidence in the quality, reliability, accuracy, and safety of the devices entrusted with controlling some of the most complex, pressurized, and volatile processes known.

Foxboro’s complete line of robust, field-proven instrumentation provides measurement solutions for temperature, pressure, flow, process analysis, level, and data acquisition. Additionally, our line of valve positioners offers the highest accuracy in the industry.

You may download a PDF version of the Foxboro "Process Instrumentation for the Chemical Industry" brochure here, or view the embedded document below. For more information on Foxboro instrumentation contact Swanson Flo by visiting https://swansonflo.com or by calling 800-288-7926.

What Are Cryogenic Ball Valves?

Cryogenic Ball Valve
Cryogenic Ball Valve (Flowserve Worcester)
Cryogenic ball valves are high-performance shutoff valves for intermittent and continuous flow applications with temperatures to -425°F. They are used on tough applications involving all types of cryogens, such as oxygen, hydrogen, methane, ammonia, nitrogen, fluorine, LNG and deuterium.

Cryogenic ball valves include unique features to ensure safety and performance in cryogenic applications. Central to the cryogenic design is a rugged, one-piece, pressure safe stem with a Polyfill thrust bearing and stainless steel split ring. It provides design safety and low operational torque. Polyfill seats give you tight shutoff throughout the temperature range. With an orientation-controlled stem/ball connection and an upstream hole in the ball, you get positive overpressure protection.

Summary of specialized design features:
Brass Cryogenic Ball Valve
Brass Cryogenic Ball Valve
(Flowserve Worcester)
  • Positive Ball Cavity Relief – An upstream relief hole in the ball prevents dangerous overpressure due to thermal expansion. On extended stem valves through 2", a one-piece stem with alignment pin assures proper orientation of the ball.
  • Pressure Safe Stem – Both one-piece and two-piece, assembled inside-the-body stems are safe from blowout and are supported with Polyfill® thrust washers.
  • Zero Leak Packing – Belleville live-loaded TFE packing rings and stem centering followers assure zero leakage through the toughest, high-cycle applications.
  • Effective Bonnet Extensions – The stem extensions of cryogenic valves conform to standard industrial practices. That means wall thickness and lengths that keep heat transfer down, the packing frost-free, operational torques low, and actuators solidly supported.
  • High-Performance/Low-Thermal Stress – The special “part compatibility” design of valve parts, Polyfill seats and body seals assure tight shutoff, zero body leakage and low torque through large thermal excursions from ambient to -425°F.
Cryogenic valves are normally available in four body configuration, in either stainless steel or brass:
  1. Three-piece construction - makes it easy to install, versatile in application and simple to maintain.
  2. The cryogenic diverter valve - accepts media through the bottom inlet port and directs it to one of two side ports.
  3. The wafer design - a flangeless cryogenic valve that mounts between ANSI Class 150 or 300 flanges.
  4. A flanged design - has a body cast with ANSI Class 150 flanges.
Application for cryogenic ball valves:
  • Over-the-Road LNG-LPG Trailers
  • Terminal Unloading Stations
  • High-Purity Cryogenic/Gas Systems
  • LNG Storage and Distribution
  • CO2 and Nitrogen Injection for Enhanced Oil Recovery
  • Over-the-Road CO2, LNG, Food Carriers
  • Petroleum Refining Unleaded Gasoline (Gas Treatment Skids)
  • Lyophilization Systems
  • Air Separation Plants
  • Liquid and Gaseous Oxygen
  • Inerting and Heat Treatment
For more information on cryogenic ball valves, contact Swanson Flo by visiting https://swansonflo.com or by calling 800-288-7926.