TECH TALK
Completing Control Valve Projects with Present-Day Online Sizing and Selection Tools
For decades , selecting and sizing control valves were a complex and time-consuming task . Only large control valve manufacturers provided the necessary tools , and they were often restricted to specialists with deep technical expertise . However , modern online control valve sizing and selection tools have dramatically changed the landscape , making the process more accessible and efficient .
Today , valve professionals can avoid spending hours crunching numbers or navigating complex equations . Instead , they can use intuitive software to select the right valve for each specific application . This shift in technology not only simplifies the process but also improves accuracy , reducing the risk of operational inefficiencies or system failures . This article delves into the benefits of using these online tools and offers practical advice for getting started .
By Al Gunnarson , VP of Sales and Marketing , Warren Controls , Inc
The Evolution of Valve Sizing and Selection
Before the advent of online tools , valve professionals relied heavily on printed tables from manufacturers . These tables provided essential information such as flow coefficient ( Cv ) and flow rates for specific pressure drops . However , critical factors like aerodynamic noise , flow velocity , and special flowing conditions were often missing . As a result , engineers were forced to perform numerous complex calculations , often spending up to 45 minutes on a single valve — and that was just the beginning . Calculating the necessary details for actuators and other accessories added more time and complexity .
Today , modern online sizing and selection tools eliminate the need for manual calculations , providing quick , reliable results . With just a few inputs — such as the type of fluid , temperature , and pressure — these tools can generate a comprehensive report outlining the most suitable valves for a given application . What once took weeks of labor to complete a valve project can now be completed in hours , allowing engineers to focus on other critical aspects of their projects . However , while the technology is more accessible , getting started with these tools can still be a challenge for some professionals . Many struggle with understanding the requirements needed before entering data into the tool . Knowing how to prepare is key to a smooth experience .
Preparing to Use Sizing and Selection Tools
To successfully use online control valve sizing tools , it is essential to do the groundwork . Professionals should follow a structured approach before even opening the software . The preparation ensures they have the necessary information to input into the system and understand the valve ’ s operational context .
Field Experience and Customer Insights
Real-world experience in the field is irreplaceable . Valve professionals need to understand the environment in which the valve will operate . This means engaging directly with plant managers , team leaders , and maintenance personnel to gain insights into application functions and interdependencies . This knowledge helps professionals anticipate potential issues and make more informed decisions during the sizing and selection process .
Thorough Application Understanding
Before diving into the tool , professionals should clarify critical questions about the application , such as whether the valve is a new installation or a replacement . If the valve is a replacement , it is important to understand why the previous valve failed . Knowing whether the control is for temperature , pressure , or flow also plays a crucial role in the selection . Additional factors , such as the fluid type ( water , steam , or chemical ), temperature , and pressure conditions , must be gathered upfront . Having this information at hand makes the online tool easier to navigate and reduces the chances of errors or the need for guesswork .
18 Valve World Americas | February 2025 • www . valve-world-americas . net