Figure 2 : Buried valve with extended auxiliaries π www . valve-world . net Valve World October 2024
VALVE AUXILIARIES
Mitigating risks in valve auxiliary systems
Explore the critical role of valve auxiliaries in maintaining valve functionality and reliability and discover effective strategies for mitigating associated risks throughout the valve ’ s service life .
By Essam Arfaj , Bader Jarallah , and Mohanned Tarabzouni -
Aramco
Figure 1 : Typical configuration of pipeline valve auxiliaries
Valve piping auxiliaries , including drains , vents , bypass and equalizing lines , are essential elements that ensure valve functionality and reliability throughout the intended service life . To achieve the intended functionality , valve auxiliaries must be properly designed and maintained . Failure to maintain healthy piping auxiliaries will not only affect valve functionality but may also impose serious risks to operating facilities , such as external leaks . In this paper , actual failure case histories are examined to determine root causes and provide guidelines on how to design and maintain these auxiliaries throughout the valve ’ s design life .
Understanding valve auxiliaries
Valve auxiliaries are connections and components fitted to main isolation valves to support operations and ensure sustainable production without interruption . These typically include small piping , extended tubing , and emergency injection lines , in addition to associated fittings . The following are the most commonly used auxiliaries in pipeline applications :
• Drain and vent : A connection provided in a valve body , bonnet , or for the purpose of releasing fluid .
• Bypass / equalizing line : Lines utilized to isolate mainlines for maintenance / stroking activities , acting as secondary mainlines . They can function as a piping loop to permit flow around a valve closure member in its closed position .
• Relief lines : A connection designed to actuate automatically to reduce internal pressure when its pressure setting is exceeded .
• Injection fittings : Utilised to inject products into the valve packing and seat systems to achieve isolation or protect them from damage .
Figure 2 : Buried valve with extended auxiliaries π www . valve-world . net Valve World October 2024
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