MANUFACTURING
This article explores the evolution of high-performance butterfly valves , detailing advancements in automation , actuator selection and smart technologies that are enhancing efficiency and reliability in critical industrial applications .
By Knut Riegel , Emerson
About the author Knut Riegel is a Senior Sales Manager at Emerson . With 15 + years of experience in mission-critical flow control , Knut is currently the driving force behind the Local Business Partners network in DACH Region at Isolation Valves . Prior to Emerson , Knut spent many years in various roles , including engineering and sales at well-known global actuator manufacturers . He holds a bachelor ’ s degree in Process Automation and is Master Professional in Business Management . He is an active member of several industry associations and serves as an SME for topics around electrification and digital transformation .
Selecting valves for chemical process applications
The chemical industry has existed since the Industrial Revolution and play a vital role in society today . Germany is Europe ’ s largest chemical nation , and the German chemical industry ranks third worldwide . It forms the basis of many value chains and is an important driver of innovation in numerous other sectors . This makes the industry not only one of the most important but also one of the most vital economic sectors in Germany and far beyond its borders . Massive increases in energy costs over the last three years have contributed to the fact that production capacities are no longer fully utilized . Short-term savings programs aimed at ensuring that companies remain globally competitive are taking effect . The business climate in the ( German ) chemical industry has deteriorated and investments in industrial goods needs to be reconsidered . New resulting trends such as the shortage of skilled labor are pushing for fast , intelligent automation . At the same time , many chemical producers have internalized the circular economy in which resource use , emissions and energy savings are considered through durable designs and preventive maintenance into their corporate values . In addition , the flow control requirements , i . e ., all products that shut off , distribute , or control the medium in a pipeline , are higher than ever . Critical isolation valves must fulfill the latest standards as well as material quality and service life requirements . Butterfly valves , especially in double eccentric design , are indispensable in the chemical industry . Whether automated or manual operated , they can be found everywhere in process plants as critical main process shutoff devices and play a key role in operation . Companies with extensive experience in chemical applications are likely to have an advantage in meeting the industry ’ s evolving demands for valve technology . This is due to their accumulated knowledge and proven track record in these critical sectors . Modern isolation and shut-off valves face multiple challenges in today ’ s industrial landscape . Can these valves meet stringent safety standards while also aligning with circular economy principles , including net-zero emissions targets ? Furthermore , how do they address the industry ’ s demands for extended service life and integration with smart automation systems ? These questions are crucial for valve professionals to consider when selecting and implementing valve solutions in chemical process applications .
Butterfly valve selection expertise informs choices
Meeting modern valve requirements demands extensive experience in valve technology , intelligent automation and sustainable practices . New product development should prioritize environmental performance alongside technical innovation . When selecting an isolation valve , several factors must be considered to ensure optimal operation in chemical process applications . Isolation valves control the flow of gases , liquids , slurries or powders in industrial processes . These valves typically operate in either fully closed or fully open positions to direct media flow , provide emergency protection and enable safe maintenance procedures . Butterfly valves are frequently used for medium shut-off in pipelines , handling various substances including liquids , abrasives , solids and vapors . Their popularity
38 Valve World September 2024 www . valve-world . net