End user report
Abqaiq wellhead ABQQ-37 . Image courtesy of Saudi Aramco .
experiences to ensure all valves are properly specified , selected and designed .
Design requirements
Additionally , some design requirements are specified to ensure the proper selection of the valve type , design , material and configuration . This includes the following :
• Installation of gate valves with horizontal or below orientation needs to be in clean service or utility applications to prevent blockage of the flow line .
• All threaded connections of valve bodies such as drain and vent shall be seal welded .
• Self-locked handles shall be provided for lever operated valves .
• Non-slam check valves shall be selected for rotating equipment discharge lines .
• Wafer type check valves are not permitted in hydrocarbon services .
Design requirements are typically specified for each facility during project planning and
design review to ensure a full understanding of the process and flow parameters as well as any additional requirements . Operations and maintenance best practices are always introduced to ensure past experiences have been addressed and logged . To wrap up , end users require and build their specifications in alignment with international bodies and groups such as ASME , API , BS , IOGP and more . These combined maintain the minimum required specs are met to ensure safe and smooth operations of the facility and its assets . Aramco continues to ensure excellence in hydrocarbon transportation , shipping and handling through adopting these best practices and ensuring up-to-date specifications .
About the author Mohanned Tarabzouni is a valve engineer with 10 years of experience in the oil / gas industry . He holds a master ’ s degree in pipeline engineer and Bsc in mechanical engineering . Mohanned ’ s roles include project design reviews , operations / maintenance supports as well as troubleshooting / conducting failure assessments .