TECH TALK
( b ) strong enough and designed to withstand unintended opening .
215.5 ( 5 ) Despite subsection ( 1 ), if it is not reasonably practicable to provide blanking , blinding or double block and bleed isolation , an employer must develop and implement procedures for an alternate means of isolation certified by a professional engineer as safe and appropriate for the protection of workers .
With the current emphasis on sustainability , social responsibility , and governance ( often referred to as ESG — Environmental , Social , and Governance ), there is a growing demand for products and solutions that align with these principles . Designing valves with the latest technology can indeed play a significant role in achieving these goals . Here ’ s how :
1 . Environmentally Friendly Design :
• Material Selection : Using sustainable and recyclable materials for valve construction can reduce environmental impact . Incorporating materials that require less energy for production and that are more durable can extend the lifespan of the valves , reducing waste .
• Energy Efficiency : Valves can be designed to minimize energy loss , ensuring that systems operate more efficiently . For example , using smart valve technology to optimize flow rates can reduce energy consumption in industrial processes .
• Leak Prevention : Advanced sealing technologies and designs that minimize leakage can not only enhance safety but also prevent the release of harmful substances into the environment , protecting ecosystems and reducing pollution .
2 . Social Acceptability :
• Safety Features : Designing valves with safety features that protect workers and communities is crucial . This includes fail-safe mechanisms , easy-to-use interfaces , and clear labeling .
• Accessibility : This involves ensuring that valves are designed with accessibility in mind so they can be operated and maintained by individuals with varying levels of physical ability .
• Impact on Communities : Valves used in water treatment , for example , can contribute to the availability of clean water in communities , directly impacting public health and quality of life .
3 . Governance and Compliance :
• Regulatory Compliance : Valves must be designed to comply with international standards and regulations , such as those set by organizations like ISO or specific governmental agencies . This ensures that the valves meet safety , environmental , and quality requirements .
• Data Collection and Monitoring : Integrating sensors and IoT ( Internet of Things ) technology into valve designs can enable real-time monitoring and data collection , ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and facilitating maintenance . This also helps in maintaining transparency and accountability .
• Cybersecurity : With the rise of
BMEA Innovation Award is given in addition to , or in place of , the Best Mechanical Engineering Achievement Award when a submitted technology demonstrates creative innovation . This innovation award is for significant contributions in the field of petroleum and mechanical engineering .
smart valves and connected devices , ensuring robust cybersecurity measures is essential to protect data integrity and prevent unauthorized access .
4 . Technological Integration :
• Smart Valves : Implementing IoT technology into valves can enable remote monitoring and control , predictive maintenance , and realtime data analytics . This not only improves efficiency but also helps in quick response to potential issues , minimizing downtime and environmental risks .
• Automation and AI : Using AI and automation in valve operation can optimize processes , reduce human error , and enhance safety and efficiency . Automated systems can react faster to changes in conditions , improving overall system reliability .
This innovation features a mechanically energized sealing mechanism that functions effectively , regardless of the differential pressure across the valve . It ensures friction-free rotation of the ball against the seats . By integrating two rising stem ball valves into a single valve body , this design achieves a more compact structure , enabling faster and more efficient operation while minimizing potential leak paths . This solution aligns seamlessly with OSHA ’ s definitions for “ isolation ” and “ blanking or blinding .” It outperforms traditional blinding flanges in sealing capabilities and allows for physical isolation simply by operating the valve . This approach eliminates the need for extensive manual labor , reduces downtime , and minimizes the risk of material spills , making it a highly costeffective solution .
They have been awarded ASME design of the “ Woelfel Best Mechanical Engineering Innovation Award ”.
Conclusion
By incorporating these elements into valve design , companies can create products that not only meet the current demands for safety and integrity in pipeline systems , and further incorporate sustainability , social responsibility , and governance , but also set the stage for future savings . Such a holistic approach not only adds value to the product but also aligns with the growing expectations of consumers , regulators , and investors for responsible and sustainable business practices .
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Gobind N Khiani , a U Calgary alumnus of Masters in Mechanical Engineering is a seasoned change-maker . He has a proven track record in technical and value engineering and holds a Fellowship in Engineering and an MBA . He is the Task Force Lead of the End User Group at API609 and Vice Chairman of the Standards Council of Canada . He has done peer review on Emissions Management regulatory documents for ECCA / EPA and participated in research and development initiatives .
10 Valve World Americas | October 2024 • www . valve-world-americas . net