DFT® Control Valve Webinar FAQ

DFT® recently held a webinar on severe service control valves. To follow up on the information we presented, here are some answers to questions we’ve received.

Are you coping with corrosive aggressive services? Which materials do you use? 

Our Ultra-Trol valve is designed to withstand corrosive media with a combination of metallurgy and controlling fluid conditions. It has replaceable liners, as well as wear-resistant materials, including Stellite, 440C, and Tungsten carbide. 

How soon you can deliver a valve after receiving the PO?

We can deliver a valve within 10-12 weeks of receiving an order. Depending on our factory capacity at the time of the order, we can often accommodate faster delivery times.

How can digitalization help you predict integrity damage of a valve to take preventive measures before is too late?

As a preventive measure, we recommend a series of initial inspections. This will identify the wear rate, so you can predict integrity damage.

What is the preferred range of operation of a valve?

For the HI-100, the effective range of operation is between 15-90% open. The preferred range is between 30-85% open.

How do you select a valve?

To ensure you get the right valve, they are sized by DFT® engineering. To do that, they take into account temperature, pressure, fluid type, and flow.

What type of valve characteristic curve is preferred (e.g. equal percentage, linear, etc.)?

For the HI-100®, the valve trim characteristic is linear.

What is the max CV/min CV preferred value when selecting a valve?

DFT® engineering accounts for inlet pressure, orifice size pressure drop, and valve flow path to select a trim package that will result in max CV/min CV preferred value within the range of 30-85% full open.

What is the ease provision of trim replacement in Venturi style?

The HI-100® Straight-Through Venturi Style Control Valve is an in-line repairable valve, so replacing the trim requires a few simple steps. First, remove the valve bonnet, which will enable you to remove any internal component. The trim can be removed without any special tools. When the trim has been replaced, reassemble the bonnet. Be sure to follow the disassembly and reassembly instructions in the DFT® HI-100® maintenance manual.

Do you cover also 3-way valves and angle valves? Where are they used and what are their characteristics?

For more information on valve types and sizes we offer, take a look at  our website. You’ll find DFT® catalogs, including those for Check Valves, HI-100® Severe Service Control Valves, and LSV-100® General Service Control Valves.

Catalogs have information on valve sizes, types, and material options. DFT® engineering sizes every HI-100® valve based on application data provided by the end user. You can find an application data sheet on page 13 of the DFT® HI-100® catalog or download the PDF here.

Can your valves be 4-20mA or 0-10V modulated and if yes, how does it work?

The controller package in the HI-100® valve/actuator/accessory assembly contains 4-20mA modulator capability. Although DFT® doesn’t manufacture controllers, we do mount them as a part of our complete assembly package. We are able to support a number of control protocols with a range of actuator and controller packages.

How do you isolate a valve during operation?

As it is a modulating control valve, the DFT® HI-100® can achieve Class V shutoff. This is a tight shutoff which is specially designed for isolation service, but not an isolation valve. For systems that require this function, we recommend that an isolation valve is installed upstream from the HI-100®.

Is the ball in the Venturi free to rotate in any position during operation?

During the initial opening of the valve, the HI-100® ball rotates less than 90 degrees, and then it drops during valve closure. As a result, the ball does not contact the seat in the same position, which reduces wear on the ball.

How do you deal with valves operated in parallel (e.g. 50-50% or other)?

In some cases, valves must be operated in parallel, known as “split range” control. One example is a 50-50% arrangement, where two valves each handle half of the total flow. In this case, the valve positioners are configured so they will accept 4-12 ma and 12-20 ma, respectively. This adapts to situations dealing with a large range of flows.

Does DFT® have motorized control valve with fast reaction time (<1sec)?

For a motorized control valve with fast reaction time, linear actuators that are capable of driving DFT® control valves in less than a second are available.

Price-wise, what is the difference when comparing a globe valve to the Venturi style of the same size?

If you’re comparing the prices of a globe valve with the Venturi style valve of the same size, there are a few factors to consider. Venturi style control valves can generate CVs that are 2-3 times greater than a globe control valve of a similar size. As such, you would need a much smaller sized Venturi style control valve in the same environment as a larger globe style valve. Since the Venturi style valve can provide much greater flows, it is more accurate to compare the price of a Venturi style control valve that can manage the goal CVs against the price of the globe style control valve that can achieve the same CVs.

How do you evaluate the opening/closure time for critical valves?

To evaluate the opening and closure time for critical valves, stroke times are specified in the quote. They will be accounted for in the design process, and we will test them in the factory before shipment.

How do you replace the wear bushings in case of a welded end connection? Can those be accessed by removing the bonnet?

The HI-100® is an inline repairable valve. First, remove the valve bonnet, which will give you access to all internal components. The wear bushings can be removed and replaced without using any special tools. Once that’s done, reassemble the bonnet. Be sure to follow the disassembly and reassembly instructions in the DFT® HI-100® maintenance manual.

See What DFT® Can Do for You

DFT® has been offering the best in valves since 1943. If you have additional questions or would like more information about one of our products, please contact us. 

Common Problems with Pumps and Compressors

Companies in many industries rely on pumps and compressors to safely and efficiently transport fluids throughout their facilities. These systems appear in manufacturing sectors ranging from:

• Pharmaceutical
• Food and beverage processing
• Petrochemical
• Power generation

The size and output of a pump or a compressor varies depending on the fluid that it handles as well as the amount of power required to move the media. For this reason, pumps and compressors range in size from small handheld devices to large industrial equipment. However, a few commonalities exist across all pumps that make diagnosing problems in these systems easier for facility managers.

In this post, we explore a few of the most prevalent issues encountered by pump and compressor owners, and we describe some strategies on how to overcome them.

Problems That Can Arise

Pumps are very loud when they operate, which means that they’re commonly housed in separate rooms within the facility. Pump rooms are often small in size, meaning that very little space exists between valves, fittings, and piping. This creates tight operating conditions for maintenance personnel, and it also means that any problem with the equipment can have cascading effects.

In multiple pump systems that share a common header, the sudden cessation of one pump can create problems in other parts of the system. This can be compounded by compressors, which generate pressure pulsation that can create excessive wear on valves, fittings, and piping if not properly handled.

Finding a Solution

Many facility owners mitigate these risks by installing axial flow check valves. These valves ensure that fluids flow in only one direction, and tare designed to eliminate back flow.

Axial check valves operate via a disc and spring mechanism that prohibits fluid from reversing its flow direction. When pressure builds up on one side of the disc controlled spring , the disc opens, allowing fluid to flow through the valve. However, when there is not enough pressure on the other side of the spring, the valve stays closed, preventing back flow.

These spring mechanisms reduce the risk of water hammering, which increases the valve’s longevity. Valves of this type also occupy less space than manual valves and other check valves, making them easier to install in crowded environments. Axial check valves can be installed vertically or horizontally, which allows them to be used in a number of different applications.

High-Quality Axial Flow Check Valves from DFT®

Preventing damage to your pumping and compression equipment will save your company thousands of dollars and untold amounts of lost production time. Axial check valves are often the first line of defense against reverse flow damages, and their versatility allows facility production and maintenance managers to find custom solutions to a variety of fluid-handling challenges.

If you would like to speak with our experts to determine the best axial flow check valve for your application, contact us today.

Learn more about our pumps and compressors in our new ebook “Axial Flow Check Valves for Pumps and Compressors”

3 Effective Methods to Prevent Check Valve Failure

Increasing the Life Span of a Check Valve

Check valves are an important component in piping used to transport fluids. A properly functioning check valve allows liquid to flow in one direction and prevents reverse flow in the opposite direction. Proper installation and preventative valve maintenance are necessary to keep check valves in peak condition.

During installation, it is essential to consider the flow capacity. Proper valve size is necessary to prevent performance issues. Oversizing can lead to vibration damage, shortening the life span of the check valve.  However, if you complete routine maintenance on a correctly sized check valve, you can prevent leakage and premature failure.

Method 1: Taking Preventative Measures

The first step in valve maintenance is making sure the pipeline and valves are clean and free of debris. Filters are a simple and effective way to prevent debris from entering the system. If debris does get in the piping, flush the pipes to minimize buildup and remove settled debris. It’s essential to establish a consistent maintenance schedule on all check valves.

Method 2: Choosing the Right Check Valve

This method can improve the function and longevity of the system. Choose a properly sized check valve based on vertical or horizontal orientation, type of media, and the normally expected flow condition specific to the application—not the size of the pipeline. Incorrectly sized valves can cost more, reduce flow velocity, and cause malfunctions such as water hammer. For optimal performance, the valves must be installed correctly and used as directed in the manufacturer’s instructions.

Method 3: Upkeep to Maintain Tight Shut Off

Sometimes a system may need proper routine inspections to maintain tight shutoff and prevent premature check valve failure. You can keep a tight shut off by removing any foreign matter.If flushing hasn’t helped, remove and completely disassemble the valve. Inspect it for scratches on the valve seat and the disc. Then, wash all parts in clean fluid that is used in the system. As you reassemble the valve, inspect the housing and trim parts for any corrosion or erosion. Replace the valve if there is corrosion or excessive roughness due to erosion.

Supporting Your Check Valve Needs

Appropriate check valve choice and regular inspections are key to preventing premature failure in any application. DFT® has been manufacturing check valves and solving any issues for over 70 years.  Contact us today to learn more about how DFT can support your check valve needs.

DFT® Makes Commitment to Sustainable Energy with Solar Initiative

Most manufacturing operations take a substantial amount of power to operate, often making it difficult for industry stakeholders to effectively reduce their carbon footprint. However, with improvements in solar panel technology and power storage, it is now possible for industrial facilities to significantly reduce their impact on the environment. Solar also makes more financial sense for industrial applications, as most factories, warehouses, and other facilities have large, flat roofs that are ideal for these panels.

Solar power is considered one of the greenest renewable energy sources, surpassing other options like natural gas, because its energy produces zero emissions at every stage. It has also surpassed wind to become one of the most affordable end-to-end sources of renewable energy.

DFT® Goes Solar

At DFT® Valves, one of our core company values is a commitment to sustainable operation. In pursuit of this, we have completed the installation of roof panels on our facility that generate approximately 63% of our annual electricity requirements, or 304 kilowatts per minute while the sun is shining.

Since most of our electricity consumption occurs during the day while we are in full production, we can largely offset the power requirements of the production processes. At night, when our power requirements are minimal, we can still use power from the local grid.

We’re also able to sell power back to PECO seven days a week, which provides significant savings that will help us break even on the project in the next few years. In addition, about 33% of the cost was covered through a grant from the state of Pennsylvania, and we expect to receive additional state and federal tax incentives as well. This means we won’t have to pass on any related upfront or ongoing costs to customers. We’ll also contribute to sustainable energy use in the community by assisting PECO in providing power to more than 100 homes in the surrounding area.

Your Sustainable Valve Provider

DFT® Valves provides check valves and control valves for use in a range of applications across a broad array of industries. It is our mission to provide solutions that help you avoid critical valve failures that will negatively impact your operation. The addition of solar panels to power operations shrinks both the company’s and our customers’ carbon footprints.

To learn more about DFT’s check valves and control valves and how they can support your needs, please contact us or request a quote.

Safety Protocols in the Workplace

For any manufacturing business, safety is of the utmost concern. A company’s workers are its most valuable asset, and toprotect that asset, it’s critical to maintain a working environment that prioritizes health and safety. At DFT, employee health and safety is placed above all else. We are committed to maintaining a safe and hazard-free environment by complying with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) workplace requirements to create a safe workplace for our employees.

We have OSHA-30 – certified supervisor and manager that work tirelessly to ensure that we are complying with all OSHA regulations throughout the company. Our diligent commitment to OSHA standards, combined with our

internal safety best practices, ensures that we meet or exceed the occupational health and safety standards set forth for our industry.

There are many ways in which DFT practices safety in the workplace. For example, DFT’s seven-member safety committee encourages safety awareness among employees, incentivizes their participation in our safety program, and educates them about safety best practices. We also provide thorough training to our employees from certified forklift and overhead crane operators to ensure that our own equipment operators are aware of current best practices.

We even have an AED/CPR-trained emergency response team comprising nine individuals who are equipped to handle any medical emergencies that may arise at work. Our team also understands the importance of recognizing our employees’ comfort and safety levels; thus, we never require a DFT employee to perform a task or job that they are uncomfortable with or that makes them feel unsafe.  Furthermore, to maximize our safety knowledge, we work with Gallagher Bassett to provide outside training, education, and risk control assessments to help minimize equipment, personnel, and product losses.

The actions mentioned above are just some of the safety practices that DFT has integrated into our day-to-day operations. Below, we dive into some of our key strategies for boosting safety in the workplace.

Promoting Health and Safety in the Workplace

Creating a safer work environment requires a commitment from all levels of a company’s workforce. We try to emphasize the importance of safe work practices among our employees by engaging them directly from the ground up. To accomplish this goal, we have created a company safety committee where representatives from our labor pool work with members of our management team to identify hazards and unsafe work practices, prevent accidents by removing any known obstacles, and evaluate the company’s ongoing efforts to achieve and accident-and-injury-free workplace.

Our Personal Pledge

At DFT, we have demonstrated our commitment to safety by making a pledge to do the following:

• Implement policies and procedures that help us achieve our goal of zero injuries/accidents
• Provide appropriate personal safety equipment, physical safety boundaries, and mechanical safety equipment wherever appropriate
• Use regular inspections to identify and address unsafe working conditions and comply with relevant OSHA standards
• Train all employees on best practices and procedures for a safe work environment, including the proper care/use of all personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Develop and enforce strict internal company health and safety rules and obligate all employees to follow them
• Investigate all accidents – no matter how big or small – to discover the cause and find ways to prevent similar incidents from happening again.

Together, these actions will allow us to uphold our promise to protect our employees’ health and safety every day.

Responsibility

Maintaining a safety and healthful workplace is a responsibility that falls on the shoulders of every individual tied to the company––from managers to supervisors, to all other employees.

• Managers

Managers hold accountability for preventing workplace injuries and illnesses, but they also need to be open and receptive to all suggestions made by employees for creating a safer and healthier work environment. Management must also stay aware of and up-to-date on any potential safety or health hazards found in the DFT facility, as well as all policies found in the company’s safety and health program.

• Supervisors

Supervisors are responsible for overseeing and training workers in best practices regarding safe work. They also have the task of enforcing company rules in order to ensure that employees follow all required safety procedures.

• Employees

Employees must comply with safety and health protective procedures, which includes immediately reporting hazards, unsafe work practices, and accidents to supervisors or a safety committee representative; wearing required PPE; and, participating in and supporting safety committee activities.

Learn More

At DFT, we believe a company is nothing without its employees. Therefore, we work hard every day to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our employees as a means of ensuring the wellbeing of our business. In all of our operations, we carefully consider how to protect our workers from any risk of job-related injury and illness, and we believe that this attention to safety translates in turn to a higher quality of product for our customers.

If you’re interested in learning more about DFT’s products or our safety procedures, please contact us.