[ cover story ]
Ville Kähkönen , Director , Renewable Energy and Gases
technologies such as green hydrogen and carbon capture becoming an increasing discussion point with clients . We can meet the most demanding of customers at eye level thanks to our extensive background in multiple processes , enabling us to propose tailor-made solutions .”
Colleague Andreas Pischke ( Global Industry Manager , Renewable Energy and Gas ) adds that as the hydrogen sector evolves , Valmet can take unique process conditions into account . “ A typical example is material selection . If the customer lacks previous experience , we can use our material engineering skills to propose the best possible valve solution . We can also advise on appropriate valve selections as clients look to scale up from demo units to full scale processes .”
Valmet has vast experience with an even more challenging gas – oxygen . “ Oxygen really is in a league of its own . It is a strong oxidizing agent and compressing oxygen also provides ignition energy . Contaminants in the oxygen lines in an electrolysis plant , for example , are known to be a cause of fires . Hence utmost cleanliness is required during valve assembly and installation . Thus far , we have over 30,000 valves in active oxygen service worldwide , with the first deliveries dating back to 1928 .”
Adsorption & absorption
Pressure and temperature swing adsorption technologies ( PSA and TSA , respectively ) are widely used to purify gas flows . Such processes – commonly deployed in electrolysis facilities and carbon capture – place very high demands on valves .
Mr Kähkönen : “ Adsorption cycles are typically fast with up to four valve cycles every minute , whereby operating times can be under a second per operation . Additional challenges can include high-pressure differentials plus the need for absolute tightness . In extreme cases , valves might see one million cycles per year , making this a very severe service application . Customers also require long maintenance intervals between
Hard on valves
With an extensive portfolio , Valmet has the right valve for the vast majority of applications . Comments Mr Kähkönen : “ Our segment , butterfly , ball and other designs cover practically all valve needs in the energy transition , whether for hydrogen , oxygen or carbon dioxide service , withstanding temperatures of up to 700 ° C . Our valves have been proven in both atmospheric pressure and pressurized electrolysers , providing excellent control accuracy , safety and reliability .”
Mr Pischke adds that whilst hydrogen service is often perceived as a challenge for valves ,
Andreas Pischke , Global Industry Manager , Renewable Energy and Gas
Hydrogen Tech World | Issue 15 | April 2024 9