Controlling pressure drop changes in any process operation is vital to plant efficiency and the longevity of components. One of the biggest challenges of having pressure drop points in a plant is that cavitation can occur, causing unnecessary fluid flashing, downstream disruptions, vibrations, and physical damage to components. Advances in control valve trim manufacturing are set to alleviate cavitation issues that are costing process and industrial plants thousands of dollars in maintenance, repair, and operational (MRO) spending.
Damage caused to components by cavitation can create excessive noise, erosion, and pressure transients. In turn, this can result in valve or piping vibration, and potentially fatigue failure of vital control valves, notes Mike Semens-Flanagan, Global Engineering Director at IMI Critical Engineering.
To mitigate cavitation-related downtime, IMI Critical Engineering has developed the 840-3D (globe) and 860-3D (angle) control valves. Featuring a customisable 3D-printed trim that uses IMI’s patented DRAG® Technology, fluid is directed through a multi-stage path to reduce differential pressure while also eliminating erosion, vibration, and noise problems.
Both valves are available in sizes 1″ to 16″ and are suitable for use across a broad range of applications, benefitting from top entry design for easy inspection and maintenance. No internal components are screwed or welded into the valve body, further enabling easy and efficient maintenance and parts replacement. A wide range of actuation is also available, including pneumatic, electric, and manual options.
