VALVE INNOVATION
IMI tackles urea valve challenges with new design
IMI launches its first control valve designed specifically for urea plants , addressing industry challenges with an innovative solution .
Text and images by IMI
IMI , a leading provider of valve solutions , is set to launch its first control valve designed specifically for urea plants . The new valve , a product of IMI ’ s Growth Hub innovation engine , is scheduled to be installed at one of the major fertiliser plants in the MEA region for the first time later this year . The fertiliser industry faces wide-ranging challenges such as gland leakage , corrosion , erosion of valve internals and granulation at lower fluid temperatures . Additionally , the flashing liquid poses a particular challenge for the design of urea valves , as it impinges on the body or trim parts at higher velocities due to changes in fluid phases . IMI ’ s solution is designed to overcome these challenges . It features an angle over-the-plug configuration with its straight outlet for the flashing fluid , while a rapid increase of the flow diameter downstream where the fluid expands avoids flashing damage downstream of the valve .
Innovative design for enhanced performance
To address gland leakage resulting from erosive particulates in the urea fluid scratching the valve stem , IMI ’ s valve incorporates wiper / backup rings that prevent packing failure from granules and hard particles . The innovative rings comprise tough but smooth aramid fibre yarns at the corners , expanded polytetrafluoroethylene ( ePTFE ) graphite fibre yarn at the faces , and high-density extruded and expanded PTFE cord at the core . The valve is designed to robustly withstand highly corrosive urea with no dead zone in the body and features a split body and integral bonnet for ease of maintenance . Jackie Hu , CEO , Automation at IMI , said : “ The development of our first urea valve clearly demonstrates the value of the Growth Hub and of engaging with customers at the earliest stages of the development process . “ Urea valves pose significant engineering challenges because of their exposure to a highly corrosive substance , which our team has worked hard to overcome . The sector has long grappled with inadequate and obsolete valves . The solution we have proposed has been developed collaboratively with the sector to address the key problems its engineers face .” IMI ’ s new urea valve , drawing on the company ’ s extensive expertise in designing , installing and maintaining valves in power plants and oil and gas refineries , as well as extensive engagement with the industry , is poised to set a new standard in valve technology for the fertiliser sector .
42 Valve World September 2024 www . valve-world . net