Selection of outlet valve type for high-pressure fresh hydrogen reciprocating compressors
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Orbit ball valves are widely chosen by designers and users for their excellent sealing performance, very low switching torque, and equal diameter. For comparison, the first two performance aspects of gate valves show a significant difference compared to ball valves. Especially when a gate valve is used as a shut-off valve, it is difficult to achieve zero leakage with its hard seal under high pressure. However, the above description does not mean that gate valves cannot be used, as the high price of inlet ball valves indeed forces users to change their purchasing decisions. A situation in which risks increase occurs only when several conditions are met simultaneously, such as the possible use of gate valves and the need to shut down the compressor while the device is in operation. If it is used merely for regulation, then there will be no significant impact, as the regulation performance of both types of valves is not their strength. This is just my personal opinion for reference
Thank you to the second floor. Considering ease of operation and reliability, we are considering importing a ball valve for this purpose; at the same time, the second ball valve will be replaced with an imported gate valve. This approach not only helps to reduce costs but also ensures safe and convenient operation.
At our company, the outlet valves of the reciprocating compressors for fresh hydrogen in the hydrocracking unit are equipped with a series connection of Y-type globe valves and ball valves; they have been in use for many years without any problems
Recently, for the outlet valves of the high-pressure reciprocating compressors in the new units installed by our company, two ball valves were selected as the design option. The outlet pressure is 18.5 MPa; a ball valve is considered for the inlet, but such ball valves are very expensive, so we are considering replacing them with gate valves. Since this compressor uses two stages of three compressions each, with an inverted stage difference between the second and third stages, the startup process can only proceed by returning stage by stage. I would like experienced colleagues to share their views on the impact of replacing the outlet valve with a gate valve; thank you!
Given the many advantages of orbital ball valves, but their high cost, should one consider using a ball valve in combination with a gate valve?
One should persist in considering the use of orbital ball valves; simply saving money is not a sufficient reason. Considering that the advantages of orbital ball valves are incomparable to those of gate valves.
An outlet pressure of 18.5 MPa makes it difficult to open the valve, and in particular, it makes it hard to control the amount of fluid returning, thereby increasing the complexity of operation