Achieving zero emissions with valves

Valve World brings you a quick update of recent press releases, company announcements and social media posts regarding zero-emission valves.

By KCI Editorial

Supporting industry net zero goals

An April 2025 news post from the UK concerns a joint project by KOSO Kent Introl & University of Huddersfield, collaborating to create a zero-emission control valve.1 The report states that current control valves used in oil, gas, and hydrogen applications often contribute to greenhouse gas emissions through leaks, inefficiencies or energy-intensive operations. The new valve is designed to provide a more sustainable alternative, enabling operators in these sectors to significantly reduce emissions and work toward achieving net-zero targets. The partners worked collaboratively to develop the zero-emission valve system. The team conducted extensive research and development, focusing on innovative design solutions that addressed the need for environmental sustainability. This included computational simulations such as finite element analysis and computational fluid dynamics to validate the design’s performance and functionality.

Key technical challenges, including the feasibility of the valve’s bonnet and internal operating mechanisms, were addressed through iterative design modifications. The partnership also tackled position-sensing complexities, ensuring the valve could operate efficiently with precise control. The team carried out prototyping and testing phases to refine the valve’s design and confirm its emission-reducing capabilities.

Throughout the project, the team worked closely with industry experts to ensure compliance with regulatory standards, and to anticipate market demands for sustainable solutions. The project also explored potential intellectual property opportunities, positioning the valve as a unique and innovative product in the market.

As a direct result of the project activities, a strategic roadmap was established to guide the further development and potential commercialisation of the zero-emission valve.

New electric dump valves

Earlier this year, a news report indicated how Laramie Energy deployed ASCO zero-emissions electric dump valves to comply with Colorado state regulations, reduce maintenance and boost productivity.2 Emerson helped Laramie Energy achieve compliance by eliminating both vented and fugitive emissions from the liquid dump stage of their separation process. See main photo above.
Conventional dump valves are often piloted by well gas, which can leak into the atmosphere as vented and fugitive emissions. In comparison, ASCO zero-emission electric dump valves use ultra-low-power electric actuation, which removes the need to vent well gas in upstream applications. And, unlike traditional dump valves, they are fugitive emissions-free by design because they have no valve packing.

With precise control, ASCO electric dump valves actuate in 50 to 75 milliseconds, thus virtually eliminating any chance of gas blowby. This helped Laramie Energy better maintain the static pressure of their vessels which ultimately led to an increase in natural gas production. The valves also use 1.2 watts (W) of energy compared to a conventional electric retrofit kit that uses 96 W, reducing valve power usage by 98.75%.

Zero-emission solutions for electrohydraulic systems

“At Volta, we’re committed to driving innovation in sustainable energy solutions,” starts a recent company post on Linkedin.3 “The recent mandate by Colorado’s Air Quality Control Commission to replace methane-emitting pneumatic devices with cleaner alternatives aligns with our mission to reduce environmental impact while enhancing operational efficiency. This regulation, targeting a phaseout by 2026 and 2027 deadlines, underscores the urgency of transitioning to low-emission technologies in the oil and gas sector”.

“Our electro-hydraulic systems are designed to meet these evolving standards, offering reliable, zero-emission solutions that help businesses stay ahead of regulatory curves and contribute to a cleaner future. Let’s work together to power progress sustainably!”

“Volta electro-hydraulic ESD control systems are brought to you by Southern Valve & Control, LLC. in partnership with industry leaders in hydraulic control system design and manufacturing.”