Heap & Partners, in partnership with LG Ball Valves, has completed a contract for the supply of 80 ball valves certified to ASME III Class 1 and 2. The valves supplied were 0.5in, 1.5in and 3.0in Class 600 top entry design with butt weld end connections. All the valves incorporated a number of special features including leak detection connections, double stem sealing and double gaskets. As the valves were destined for installation at two UK-based nuclear power plants, seismic qualification was an additional special requirement. One-hundred percent non-destructive testing and BS EN 10204 3.1 material certification was required for all components, not just pressure containing parts, with witnessed inspection at many of the manufacturing stages. After initial build, all valves were tested to 65bar, after which the Class 1 valves were stripped and non-destructive examination repeated. The valves were manufactured, tested and delivered within 20 weeks from receipt of order.
