Crane Valve Services (USA) has reported its open-flow ValveWatch® ESD valve monitoring system, proven in the North Sea, helps boost oil and gas platform production. ValveWatch patented technology actually listens to the flow of oil/gas at the most critical location of offshore platforms—the ESD (emergency shutdown) valves. The ValveWatch system sends the sounds of oil/gas flow to an onshore monitoring center, and translates them into images to signal smooth operations, caution or alarm without any interruption to production. The patented ValveWatch system uses dynamic pressure transducers installed in the flow path and the valve cavity, providing information necessary to evaluate leakage. A strain sensor on the ESD valve yoke or stem, combined with static pressure sensor installed on the actuator, provide information on actuator performance as well. The ValveWatch system has been installed on 26 valves in the North Sea.
