transmitters, it remains connected to the analog input in the
control room, continuously indicating the position of the valve
and capturing the full stroke test during an ESD event.
Benefits of transmitters for pipelines
The condition monitoring capabilities offered by the latest valve
automation technology enable efficient implementation of
predictive maintenance strategies for process valves. Predictive
maintenance is clearly more cost-efficient than corrective
maintenance. When the former is applied as part of an overall
asset management programme, maintenance resources can be
allocated efficiently. Potential valve failures can also be predicted
and unplanned shutdowns avoided. Predictive maintenance helps
to focus the maintenance actions completely on the valves that
are in need of service.
By utilising the new versions of digital control transmitters, the
tasks of an ESD valve controller can be performed as part of a SIS,
with PST handled automatically and remotely. This enables users to
conduct more frequent and flexible valve mechanical movement
tests, increase system availability and reduce the frequency of
mandatory proof testing to achieve a desired SIL rating.
With the digital control transmitter, PST is carried out at
the actual valve speed. Therefore, potential failure modes and
‘safe and dangerous detected/safe and dangerous undetected’
modes are checked in the valve actuator package. The PST is
accomplished without any interruption to the running process or
availability to the SIS. Through the use of non-contact positioning
sensing, the transmitter’s remote sensor head can also be mounted
at a considerable distance from the electronics enclosure. This
results in greater application versatility and improved safety for
technicians performing maintenance work in the field. The digital
control transmitter’s remote mounting capability is particularly
beneficial for high vibration environments, which cause equipment
wear and hysteresis in mechanical devices.
Ensuring safety with valve technology
Cities and many day-to-day operations depend on safe and
reliable pipeline operation, therefore it is vital that their service
remains uninterrupted for as long as possible. Emergency
shutdown valves are an important asset in the pipeline network.
From a production perspective, their performance is a major
concern addressing both pipeline and safety availability. Operators
need to consider both to achieve optimal production and process
safety performance to remain fully operational. With the latest
innovations in digital control transmitters, pipelines can utilise
advanced, microprocessor-based intelligence to obtain reliable,
consistent feedback on safety valves – regardless of what position
they are in. These transmitters elevate partial stroke testing to a
new level by eliminating position blind spots during the stroke of
a valve. Their use of robust, non-contact sensors and low-power
solenoids enables a higher SIL rating than conventional valve
positioners. This subsequently increases pipeline performance,
equipment reliability and reduced maintenance costs as well as
potential hazards.
CRC-Evans.com
PRECISION PIPE HANDLING.
WHATEVER THE CONDITIONS.
DECKHAND
®
Pipe Handling System
Now available from CRC-Evans, the DECKHAND
®
Pipe Handling System
by LaValley Industries allows precision pipe handling and placement
without the need for a ground crew in the vicinity of moving pipe.
DECKHAND can be mounted to any brand of excavator, with interchangeable
grab arms safely and securely lifting and moving pipe. Achieve 360° pipe
handling—whatever the conditions—with DECKHAND.
