Valve Selection PDF

Engineering Encyclopedia
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards
VALVE SELECTION: TYPES AND CLASSES
Note: The source of the technical material in this volume is the Professional
Engineering Development Program (PEDP) of Engineering Services.
Warning: The material contained in this document was developed for Saudi
Aramco and is intended for the exclusive use of Saudi Aramco’s employees.
Any material contained in this document which is not already in the public
domain may not be copied, reproduced, sold, given, or disclosed to third
parties, or otherwise used in whole, or in part, without the written permission
of the Vice President, Engineering Services, Saudi Aramco.
Chapter : Mechanical For additional information on this subject, contact

File Reference: MEX-101.06 PEDD Coordinator on 874-6556
Engineering Encyclopedia Piping, Pipelines & Valves
Valve Selection: Types and Classes
Section .....................................................................................................................Page
INFORMATION ............................................................................................................... 5
INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................. 5
DESCRIBING VALVES IN TERMS OF THEIR FUNCTIONS, TYPES, AND
COMPONENTS............................................................................................................... 6
Gate Valves .......................................................................................................... 7
Function................................................................................................................ 7
Major Gate Valve Components............................................................................. 9
Body Pattern......................................................................................................... 9
Gates.................................................................................................................. 10
Bonnets .............................................................................................................. 11
Trim .................................................................................................................... 13
Stems ................................................................................................................. 13
Stem Packing System ........................................................................................ 15
End Connections ................................................................................................ 16
Seats .................................................................................................................. 17
Ball Valve............................................................................................................ 18
Function.............................................................................................................. 20
Major Ball Valve Types and Components........................................................... 20
Types.................................................................................................................. 20
Body ................................................................................................................... 21
Ball ..................................................................................................................... 22
Seats .................................................................................................................. 23
Ball Supports ...................................................................................................... 24
Plug Valve .......................................................................................................... 24
Function.............................................................................................................. 25
Major Plug Valve Types and Components ......................................................... 26
Types.................................................................................................................. 26
Body ................................................................................................................... 27
Plug Styles and Seating Mechanisms ................................................................ 27
Plug Support....................................................................................................... 28
Seats .................................................................................................................. 28
SELECTING THE TYPE AND SIZE OF A VALVE THAT IS SUITABLE FOR
PROCESS APPLICATIONS .......................................................................................... 30
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards i

Step 1: List the Data Required........................................................................... 31

Valve Sizing........................................................................................................ 31
Step 2: Identify Suitable Valve-Types and Components.................................... 32
Step 3: Determine Valve-Type Limitations for Suitable Valves through
Saudi Aramco Engineering Standard SAES-L-008, Selection of Valve ............ 33
Step 4: Finalize Valve Selection by Considering Other Factors......................... 39
Standardization................................................................................................... 39
Inventory............................................................................................................. 39
Experience.......................................................................................................... 39
Cost .................................................................................................................... 40
Delivery Time...................................................................................................... 40
Materials ............................................................................................................. 40
Dimensions......................................................................................................... 40
Step 5: Provide a Full Description...................................................................... 40
Sample Problem 1: Part A. ................................................................................ 45
Solution: Part A.................................................................................................. 46
Sample Problem 1: Part B ................................................................................. 48
Solution: Part B.................................................................................................. 49
Locations "A" and "B" ......................................................................................... 49
Location "C"........................................................................................................ 49
Location "D"........................................................................................................ 50
Location "D"........................................................................................................ 50
Location "E" ........................................................................................................ 50
Determining the Required Valve Class and Associated MAOP .......................... 51
Pressure/Temperature Ratings........................................................................... 56
IDENTIFYING VALVE INSPECTION AND TESTING REQUIREMENTS ..................... 57
Minimum Inspection Requirements for New Valves ........................................... 58
Surface Examination .......................................................................................... 58
Dimensional and Component Checks ................................................................ 59
Shell Test............................................................................................................ 60
Back Seat Test ................................................................................................... 60
Low-pressure Closure Test................................................................................. 61
High-pressure Closure Test................................................................................ 61
Fire safe Test...................................................................................................... 62
Other Inspection Considerations ........................................................................ 63
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards ii

SUMMARY.................................................................................................................... 64
WORK AIDS.................................................................................................................. 65
WORK AID 1: STEPS FOR SELECTING VALVES AND VALVE COMPONENTS ...... 65
WORK AID 2: Procedure for Determining Valve Class, MAOP, and
Appropriate Test Type ........................................................................................ 69
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards iii

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1. Full-Port Gate Valve......................................................................................... 8

Figure 2. Solid-Wedge Gate.......................................................................................... 10
Figure 3. Flexible-Wedge Gate ..................................................................................... 11
Figure 4. Bolted Bonnet................................................................................................. 12
Figure 5. Screwed Bonnet............................................................................................. 13
Figure 6. Rising Stem with Outside Screw (OS&Y) ....................................................... 14
Figure 8. Stem Packing System with Lantern Ring ....................................................... 16
Figure 9. Integral Seat................................................................................................... 18
Figure 10. Full-Bore Ball Valve...................................................................................... 19
Figure 11. Seat Rings................................................................................................... 22
Figure 12. Multi-Segment Plug Valve ........................................................................... 25
Figure 13. Pump Rising System ................................................................................... 45
Figure 14. List of Material Specifications...................................................................... 53
Figure 15. Typical Pressure/Temperature Limits for Gate and Ball Valves ................. 56
Figure 17. Mandatory Tests for Valve Types (Based on API 598
and 04-SAMSS-048).................................................................................... 70
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1. Information on Valve Sizes, Ratings and Standards ...................................... 43

Table 2. Standard Class Ratings for Group 1.1 Materials ............................................ 54
Table 3. Special Class, Working Pressure by Classes, psi .......................................... 54
55
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards iv

INFORMATION
INTRODUCTION
An engineer will often be asked to participate in the design of a
piping system by evaluating a contractor's technical proposal,
auditing a contractor's work, performing a screening study for
cost estimating purposes, or actually designing and managing
pieces of the project.
The previous module discussed branch connections where two
sections of pipe come together. This module discusses another
step in designing a piping system, valve selection.
Valves are necessary for the basic function of a piping system.
This module reviews how to specify the appropriate type of
valve for a particular application, and how to determine the
appropriate pressure rating. When a plant is designed, the
types of valves and their location within a piping system are
selected. After the type of valve is determined, the engineer
and/or contractor must refer to Saudi Aramco Engineering
Standards for valve engineering requirements. He must also
refer to the Saudi Aramco Materials System Specifications,
(SAMSS's), for design requirements for specific valve-types in
order to complete the purchase order. MEX 101.02 discussed
piping system material selection, which included valve material
requirements. Valve material selection will not be discussed in
this module.
Over 95% of the valves that are used in process plant and
pipeline applications will be one of the types that are discussed
in this module. A number of other specialty-type valves are also
used in specific applications. These include clamp or pinch
valves, diaphragm valves, needle valves, and ram-type
sampling valves. Specialty-type valves will not be discussed.
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 5

DESCRIBING VALVES IN TERMS OF THEIR FUNCTIONS, TYPES, AND

COMPONENTS
The engineer must know the possible functions of a valve
before being able to select the appropriate valve for a particular
application. Fluid flows through a pipe, and valves are used to
control the flow. A valve may be used to block flow, throttle
flow, or prevent flow reversal. The following describes the basic
valve functions.
The block-flow function provides completely on or completely off
flow control of a fluid in a piping system, generally without
throttling or variable control capability. It might be necessary to
block flow in order to take a piece of equipment out of service
for maintenance, while the rest of the unit remains in operation,
or to separate two portions of a single system to accommodate
various operating scenarios.
To throttle flow in a piping system may increase or decrease the
amount of fluid flowing in the system and can also help control
pressure at points within the system. It might be necessary to
throttle flow in order to regulate the filling rate of a pressure
vessel, or to control unit operating pressure levels.
In some cases, it might be necessary to automatically prevent
the reversal of flow beyond the valve location and not allow fluid
to reverse its direction during sudden pressure changes or
system upsets. Preventing reverse flow might be necessary to
avoid damage to a pump or a compressor, or to automatically
prevent backflow into the upstream part of the system due to
process reasons.
Various types of valves may be used for each function. The
gate valve is the type that is most commonly used to block flow
in a process plant. The ball-, plug-, butterfly-, diaphragm-, and
globe-type valves are used to block flow to a lesser extent. The
globe valve is the type most commonly used to throttle flow in a
refinery. Butterfly and diaphragm valves are also used to
throttle flow. The check valve is the only valve-type that is used
to prevent flow reversal. There are three kinds of check valves:
swing, ball, and lift.

The engineer must know the various types of valves because

some valves have advantages over others in particular
applications. For example, numerous valve-types will block
flow. The gate valve is most commonly used; however, the ball
valve may be a better choice based on the particular
application. This section discusses types of valves and their
major components, and their suitability for the various functions.
Saudi Aramco Engineering Standard, SAES-L-008, Selection of
Valves, and the 04-SAMSS-series of Saudi Aramco Material
System Specifications provide specific design and service
limitations for valve-types and components. These will be
discussed further in subsequent sections of this module.
Gate Valves
About 75 percent of all valves in process plants are gate valves.
Most valves in process plants function as block valves. Block
valves are required only to fully shut off or fully turn on flow.
The gate valve is an optimum engineering and economic choice
for this on or off service. The gate valve is available in the full
range of pipe sizes, ASME/ANSI B16.34 pressure/temperature
ratings, and materials that are encountered in process plant
applications. The gate valve is not suitable to throttle flow
because it will pass the maximum possible flow while it is only
partially open, and the valve seating surfaces can erode rapidly
from fluid flow when the valve is not in the fully open or fully
closed position.
Function
The off/on flow control of a gate valve is achieved by moving a

gate into or out of the fluid-flow stream. When the full-port gate
valve is in the open (on) position, it provides a full line size,
unobstructed, straight through flow passage, and thus results in
a minimum-flow pressure drop. In reduced-port and Type-type
gate valves, the flow area is smaller than the line size, causing
slightly higher-pressure drops than a full-port valve. The gate
valve shuts off flow by forcing the gate against the valve body
seating surfaces, which creates a pressure-tight seal in both
directions.

Figure 1. Full-Port Gate Valve

Major Gate Valve Components

The typical process plant gate valve consists of 20 or more
components, as shown in Figure 1. The design of most of these
components is standardized, but can vary in detail according to
purchaser preference. Seven of these components (the body,
gate, bonnet, stem, stem packing system, end connections, and
seats) are especially significant and can be obtained in a variety
of designs. The selection of a particular component design
and/or material depends on both the service conditions and the
economics for the application.
Body Pattern
Most standard gate valves are available in either cast or forged

steel body construction up to about 100 mm (4 in.) NPS. Body
castings are usually supplied for larger gate valves because of
the cost and difficulty associated with forging the relatively
complex shapes of gate valves in the larger sizes. There are
three types of body patterns: full-port, venturi-port, reduced-
port.
Full Port –The line size flow area and resulting minimum
pressure drop of the full-port valve, shown in Figure 1, make it
suitable for all process plant applications where a gate valve is
required. Its use is mandatory for systems where pipe scrapers
must be employed. However, a full-port valve is usually not the
most economical selection, since reduced-port- and venturi-type
valves are less expensive. Per API 600, Steel Gate Valves -
Flanged and Butt-Welding Ends, full-port is specified for all
flanged valves.
Venturi- or Reduced-Port – In the venturi- or reduced-port

valve, the seat opening is one or more pipe sizes less than the
valve size. This reduces the valve cost due to the overall
smaller valve casting size. However, the reduced seat size
increases valve pressure drop, reduces its strength to absorb
loads from the piping system, and does not permit use of pipe
scrapers. Reduced-port valves are available only up to 100 mm
(4 in.) in size and are the normal choice in small diameters. A
reduced-port is specified for valves that are specified to meet
API 602, Compact Steel Gate Valves.

Gates
There are several different gate designs. The solid- and

flexible-wedge gate are the most common. 04-SAMSS-001
defines gate-type requirements for different valve sizes and
ratings. For example, a flexible wedge is required for valves
100 mm (4 in.) NPS and larger in ASME/ANSI classes 150
through 600.
Solid-Wedge Gate – The solid-wedge gate, shown in Figure 2,

is the lowest cost and most widely used gate-type in process
plants. Solid-wedges are of one-piece construction and the
seating surfaces are precision machined with a wedge taper. A
precision-dimensional match between the gate and the body
seating surfaces is required to obtain a tight a seal. The solid-
wedge gate is favored for its strong, simple design, but it is
prone to sticking when used in services where extreme
temperature changes or gradients [∆T> 194°C (350°F)] cause
the valve body to contract more than the gate.
Figure 2. Solid-Wedge Gate

Flexible-Wedge Gate – The flexible-wedge gate shown in

Figure 3 is the second most widely used type. Although similar
to the solid wedge, the flexible wedge contains a deep annular
groove in the gate, midway between the two seating surfaces.
This groove reduces the rigidity of the gate and allows slight
relative flexing between the seating surfaces. This flexing
allows the disc seating surfaces to accommodate some thermal
movement or dimensional misalignment between the gate seats
and the body seats. For this reason, the flexible-wedge gate is
more suitable than the solid-wedge gate for high-temperature
applications and is less prone to gate sticking.
Figure 3. Flexible-Wedge Gate
Bonnets
The valve bonnet is a pressure-retaining component that

supports the valve stem and operating mechanism and contains
the stem-to-bonnet packing gland seal system. The bonnet joint
provides a pressure-tight closure between the process fluid and
atmosphere at the junction between the bonnet and the valve
body. The primary bonnet types include bolted, welded,
pressure-seal, seal-welded, threaded, union, and screwed.
Bolted and screwed are the most common bonnet types.
Bolted Bonnet – A typical bolted bonnet is shown in Figure 4.

The bolted bonnet uses flanged construction to permit its
removal from the valve body, thus giving complete access to the
valve stem, gate, and body seat for maintenance. Because of
the bolted-flange gasket detail, this design is subject to the
same potential leakage problems as a normal pipe flange.

Therefore, the bonnet should be treated in the same manner as

a pipe flange with regard to bolting and gasket selection.
The bolted bonnet is the most practical and commonly used
design for process plant gate valves, and is available in all sizes
and ASME/ANSI pressure/temperature ratings.
Figure 4. Bolted Bonnet
Screwed Bonnet – The screwed-in bonnet, as shown in Figure

5, is threaded externally and screwed into an internally threaded
valve body. An alternative design is the screwed-on bonnet,
where the bonnet is internally threaded and screwed onto an
externally threaded body. Although of low cost and simple
design, the screwed bonnet has several disadvantages.
First, the threaded joint is susceptible to loosening when
subjected to vibration or through the application of stem torque
on the gland. Second, screwing the bonnet firmly to the body
neck tends to distort the body neck or bonnet. It is therefore
more difficult to achieve and maintain a tight seal with a
screwed bonnet valve than with the other types. Therefore, this
type of bonnet should be considered for use only in small [50
mm (2 in.) or less], low rating (Class 150 or less), bronze and
steel valves in clean, noncorrosive, utility-type services.

Figure 5. Screwed Bonnet
Trim
API 600, Steel Gate Valves, Flanged and Butt-welding Ends,

defines gate valve trim as the stem, the body seat surface, the
gate seat surface, the bushing or weld-deposit used for the
backseat and stem hole guide, and small internal parts that
normally contact the service fluid, excluding the pin used in
making a stem-to-gate connection (the pin is specified to be an
austenitic stainless steel). Trim material is selected to prevent
galling or metal wear of surfaces in sliding contact with each
other, and to minimize corrosion and erosion effects. API 600
lists 16 different nominal trims by composition of seating
materials and their associated hardness. Saudi Aramco trim
material requirements were discussed in MEX 101.02.
Stems
The stem raises and lowers the gate. It is designed to

withstand the forces that are generated during movement of
the gate, which creates compression and tension in the stem.
However, the stem is not designed to resist the fluid forces
that act on the disc. A loose stem-to-gate connection is
provided to permit the fluid forces that act on the gate to be
transmitted to body gate guides, which are provided for that
purpose. The stem is provided with some form of threading,
which, upon turning, causes it to drive the gate up or down.

Rising Stem with Outside Screw – As shown in Figure 6, the

valve stem rises, along with the gate, from the closed to open
position, and the stem threads remain outside the valve body.
This is called a rising stem/outside screw design, and is
commonly referred to as an OS&Y design. An important
advantage of this design is that the stem threads never
contact the contained fluid. Therefore, they are not subject to
corrosion or erosion and are not susceptible to the
accumulation of sediment deposits, which could lead to
damage or jamming of the stem screw. In addition, the stem
mechanism is readily accessible for lubrication and
maintenance. Another advantage of this stem design is
extended packing life; a result of the stem not rotating as it
moves the gate. Because the stem rises above the hand
wheel or operator, it automatically indicates the approximate
gate position.
Stem
Stem Screw
Screw
Figure 6. Rising Stem with Outside Screw (OS&Y)
Rising Stem With Inside Screw – The rising stem/inside screw,

shown in Figure 7, positions the gate by an internal, stem-screw
mechanism. Because the hand wheel and stem move together,
their position indicates the gate position. This stem type is
available only on valves 100 mm (4 in.) and smaller in diameter.
Because the stem screw is internal, it is only suitable for
noncorrosive services.

Figure 7. Rising Stem with Inside Screw
Stem Packing System
A stem packing system provides a seal between the stem and

the valve bonnet. The system, as shown in Figure 8, consists of
a stuffing box, packing (with or without lantern ring), gland
follower, and packing gland bolts and nuts. The seal that is
formed when the packing is simultaneously forced against the
valve stem and bonnet prevents leakage. This is accomplished
by tightening the packing gland nuts that force the gland
follower down and compresses the packing. A lantern ring is
sometimes used where a condensing chamber, injection of
sealant, or purging into the stuffing box is required.

The packing system consists of several rings of resilient, pliable

material installed in the stuffing box. The most often used rings
consist of braided asbestos containing lubricants and corrosion
inhibitors. Wire is inserted in some packings to increase their
ability to resist extrusion, and to serve as a sacrificial electrode
to prevent depletion of valve stem chrome content or stem
pitting that can occur when packing areas are not completely
dry. SAES-L-008 specifies Saudi Aramco packing requirements,
as discussed in MEX 101.02.
Figure 8. Stem Packing System with Lantern Ring
End Connections
The valve ends connect the valve to the associated piping. The
specific type of end connection that is employed is dictated by
the service requirements and usually is the same type as used
for pipe connections to equipment. The available valve-end
connections are flanges, butt-welds, socket-welds, and threads.

Seats
The extent to which tight shutoff is accomplished depends

directly on the sealing ability of the seating surfaces, consisting
of body seats and gate seats. The ability of two contacting
surfaces to form a seal is a function of the degree of surface
conformability between them. Perfect contact, (i.e., no voids),
gives zero leakage, but this cannot be achieved in practice
since an absolutely smooth surface with 100% conformability
cannot be attained. The problem therefore is to achieve
sufficient conformability to keep the leakage rate within
acceptable limits.
There are two general categories of valve seats: the hard seat
with metal-to-metal contact, and the soft seat with a metal-to-
nonmetal primary contact.
Hard Seats – Hard seats are more economical, can be used at

higher pressures and temperatures, and are the most common
seat design used in gate valves. The body-seating surface may
be designed as a separate seat ring, which is threaded or
welded into the valve body, or be integral with the valve body.
Figure 9 illustrates the integral seat design. Integral seats will
typically be used only for small size valves. 04-SAMSS-001,
Gate Valves, specifies seat ring design requirements.
Soft Seats – Soft seats provide better shutoff, approaching zero

leakage. However, the soft seat materials that are used (such
as Teflon or Viton) limit the maximum-use temperature of the
valve to a level that is much lower than the valve ASME/ANSI
pressure class. When a soft seat is used in a gate valve, the
soft seat material will typically be inserted into a groove that has
been machined into the valve body-seating surface.

Integral
Seat
Body-to-Gate
Seat Interface
Figure 9. Integral Seat
Ball Valve
Ball valves usually function as block valves to fully shut off or
fully open flow. Ball valves are well suited for conditions where
quick on/off and/or bubble-tight service are required. The ball
valve is available in the full range of pipe sizes and materials
that are needed in process plant applications, and most soft-
sealed models are suitable for double-block and bleed
applications. However, it is important to note that
pressure/temperature ratings for ball valve soft seats, above
ambient temperatures, are usually lower than the ASME/ANSI
ratings for steel valves. This is because of the lower physical
properties of the soft-seat materials. Soft-sealed ball valves are
not normally used for throttling service because the valve soft-
seats are subject to erosion or distortion/displacement caused
by fluid flow when the valve is not in the fully open or fully
closed position.

The soft-sealed ball valve is a good choice as a block valve

when used within the limitations previously mentioned and when
bubble-tight shutoff, double-block and bleed capability, or the
quick on/off feature is required. Where such capabilities are not
required, the ball valve is usually not the best choice in most
sizes, because of its higher cost relative to gate valves.
Figure 10. Full-Bore Ball Valve

Function
The ball valve is quick-opening and requires only a quarter-turn

from full open to full closed. A ball is used to permit or block
flow. A hole, provided through one axis of the ball, connects
with the inlet and outlet ports of the valve body. With the ball in
the open position, straight-through flow is accomplished. When
the ball is turned 90°, flow is blocked. In the closed position,
tight shutoff is obtained by resilient, seat-to-metal ball-sealing
contact, and to a lesser degree, by metal-to-metal contact in
metal-seated models.
Major Ball Valve Types and Components

The following describes some major ball valve types and
components that directly influence function or differentiate ball
valves from other valves. Refer to Figure 10.
Types
Most ball valve models have soft-sealed body seat designs, but
are frequently of a non-fire safe-type that is generally unsuitable
for process service. There are two basic seating types for
process service applications: the nonresilient, seated- (metal,
carbon-graphite, etc.) and the soft-sealed, fire safe-type. Only
the soft-sealed, fire safe design will be discussed, since that is
the type that is required most often.
Fire safe ball valves utilize a narrow-band primary-seal ring of a
soft, resilient material (such as Teflon) in the body seats to
prevent leakage through the annulus between the ball and body
cavity. Fire safe ball valves also include a secondary, metal-to-
metal seal (see Figure 11) to assure a positive shutoff capability
in the event of fire or other damage to the soft seals. They also
require high-temperature stem packings, cover gaskets, and
external bolting materials to minimize external leakage in a fire
situation.

Body
The body of a ball valve contains and supports the ball, stem,
and operating mechanism. There are several body designs
available, but all fall into the two basic categories of one-piece
or multi-piece designs.
Multi-piece Body – In the multi-piece body design, the valve

body is circumferentially divided into pieces, thereby permitting
the ball and seats to be installed or removed by disassembling
the body. This is illustrated in Figure 10. The body segments
are fastened together by flanging, screwing, or with long
through-bolts. However, the exposed through-bolt arrangement
is not recommended for fire safe valve applications, as direct-
flame impingement can cause bolt relaxation and substantial
external joint leakage.
The multi-piece body is acceptable for use in all utility services,
but must be certified fire safe for use in hydrocarbon services.
The vendor should certify that the body joint(s) are capable of
withstanding full-pipe stresses with no resultant joint leakage.
One-piece Body – There are three basic one-piece body

designs: the end-entry, top-entry and sealed (welded) designs.
In the end-entry-type, the ball and seats are installed axially and
retained by an axial retaining ring. One desirable feature of this
design is the ability to eliminate one external leakage path by
eliminating one body joint, usually required on other types for
ball and seat installation. However, this configuration has a
safety hazard in that faulty retention of the ball could result in
blowout when the downstream flange of the valve is
disconnected under pressure, unless the retaining ring design
can be locked in.
In the top-entry body-type, the ball and seats are fit into the top
of the valve and retained by a cover or bonnet. This body
construction permits inline maintenance of the valve to the
extent of replacing the ball or seats. This is a particular
advantage for valves that are butt-welded, seal-welded, or
socket-welded into the line.

The sealed-body design uses welded construction. The ball and

seats are positioned in the body before welding the body
seams. While sealing a valve by welding eliminates external
leakage, it restricts inspection and maintenance of the valve
internals, in that cutting and re-welding of the valve body would
be required to provide internal access.
Ball
The ball is the mechanism that either permits or prevents flow.

A hole bored through one axis of the ball connects the inlet and
outlet ports of the body as shown in Figures 10 and 11C. By
rotating the ball 90°, it is possible to fully shut off or permit flow
through the valve. The port opening in valves of the same size
may vary significantly among manufacturers. For example, in
the 6 mm through 50 mm (1/4 in. through 2 in.) sizes, the port
size can vary up to 13 mm (1/2 in.) for a given size. Therefore,
when a particular type of port, i.e., full- or reduced-, is required
for a specific application, it should be specified.
Figure 11. Seat Rings

Seats
The ability of a ball valve to provide tight closure depends on the

sealing capability of the ball and body seat contact surfaces. In
a ball valve, there is a metal-to-metal or metal-to-nonmetal
primary-contact interface. The metal seating surface is always
on the ball while the nonmetallic seating surface, if any, is
always on the body seat rings.
Two varieties of soft-seat rings are used in ball valves. In one
variety, a metallic seat ring contains the soft-seat material. In
the other type, the ring is fabricated entirely of nonmetallic
material. The following paragraphs describe these rings,
service-related selection considerations, and fire safe features.
Soft-Seat (Metallic Seat Ring) – The metallic seat ring,

containing a nonmetallic insert, usually requires application of a
mechanical force, such as provided by springs, to provide the
required bearing pressure to achieve a tight seal. For example,
the spring in Figure 11C is mounted on the stem and as wear of
the seats occurs, the ball and seats are continuously pressed
together. Another arrangement is shown in Figure 11B, where
the springs are mounted in back of the seats.
Designs that contain springs should not be used in highly
corrosive services unless the spring material has been
evaluated and judged suitable for the service. Also, the ability
of the spring material to withstand the high temperature of a fire
is questionable and makes this design type less suitable for fire
safe designs.
Soft-Seat (Nonmetallic Seat Ring) – The nonmetallic seat ring

is fabricated from an elastomeric material, such as Teflon. The
ring may be held firmly against the ball by an insert that is
screwed into the end port, or it may be installed in a recess in
the valve body and held in place by the clamping force between
the three parts of the valve.

Any of these designs are acceptable for use in utility services.

However, for a fire safe design, a secondary metal-to-metal
seating arrangement is required to limit leakage in the event that
the soft-seat material is lost during a fire. This is accomplished
by including a metal retention lip on the valve body or insert as
shown in Figures 11A. Upon loss of the soft seat, the line
pressure forces the ball against this metal retention lip
(secondary seat) to effect a tight closure.
Ball Supports
There are two basic designs for supporting the ball within the
valve body: the seat-supported, and the trunnion-supported
designs.
In the seat-supported design, the ball is supported by the seat
rings. In the trunnion design, the ball is supported by a trunnion
that is attached to the bottom of the ball. The trunnion fits into a
recess in the bottom of the valve body where it is supported and
guided when the ball is rotated.
Plug Valve
Plug valves usually function as block valves to fully shut off or

fully open flow. They are well suited for conditions where quick
on/off and/or bubble-tight shutoff are required. Most plug valve
styles are available in the full range of pipe sizes and materials
that are needed in process plant applications. Soft-sealed
styles with full cylindrical plugs are suitable for double-block and
bleed applications. The soft-seal-types, however, may have
lower temperature/pressure ratings than those given in
ASME/ANSI B16.34 for steel valves, because of the lesser
physical properties of the soft-seat materials. Soft-seal plug
valves are not normally used for throttling service, since the soft
seals are subject to erosion or distortion/displacement caused
by fluid flow when the valve is not in the fully open or closed
position.
A plug valve is a good choice as a block valve when used within
the limitations noted above, and when bubble-tight shutoff or
quick on/off operation is required.

Figure 12. Multi-Segment Plug Valve
Function
The plug valve utilizes a cylindrical and usually tapered plug to

provide quarter-turn operation from fully open to fully closed. A
hole is provided through one axis of the plug, connecting the
inlet and outlet ports of the valve body for straight-through flow
when in the open position, and completely blocking flow when
rotated 90° to the closed position. In the closed position, tight
shutoff is obtained either by sealant injected into the plug/body
cavity interface, or by resilient, seat-to-metal seat-sealing
contact (as in a soft-seated ball valve).

Major Plug Valve Types and Components

The following describes some major plug valve components and
types that directly influence function or differentiate plug valves
from other valves. Refer to Figure 12.
Types
There are three basic plug valve-types: the lubricated,

nonlubricated, and soft-sealed fire safe. Nonlubricated, nonfire
safe plug valves have few applications in process plants and will
not be discussed.
Lubricated Plug Valve – A lubricated plug valve depends on

injection of a sealant to prevent leakage around the plug
through the interface between the plug and the body cavity.
The sealant is injected through a pressure fitting into the body
cavity and distributed across all seating surfaces via grooves in
the plug. The sealant material must be compatible with the
process fluid, resist breakdown at maximum design
temperature, and retain its fluidity and lubricating properties at
minimum design temperature.
Lubricated plug valves can provide good long-term performance
if adequate maintenance attention can be ensured. With its
substantial secondary metal-to-metal seating and capacity for
restoring tight shutoff by sealant injection, this valve-type is
inherently fire safe with respect to through-leakage. However,
appropriate high-temperature stem packings, gaskets, and
supplementary seals must be provided to ensure fire safe
integrity against external leakage.
Soft-Sealed, Fire safe Plug Valve – Fire safe plug valves use a
narrow-band primary-seal ring of a soft, resilient material (such
as Teflon) in the annulus between the plug and body cavity to
prevent leakage. A fire safe soft-sealed plug valve also has a
secondary metal-to-metal backup seal. This assures positive
shutoff capability if the soft seal is damaged by fire. The
maximum temperature limit of the valve is limited by the soft-
seal material.

Body
Plug valves are typically of the one-piece body design, with top
or bottom entry. Body styles include the short pattern, regular
(reduced-port) pattern, venturi pattern, and the round-port full-
bore pattern.
The short pattern design has the same face-to-face dimensions
as Classes 150 and 300 flanged steel gate valves. This pattern
is advantageous when replacing existing gate valves or when
there are space restrictions.
Regular pattern (reduced-port) designs have a smaller plug-port
area than do full-bore valves, are less expensive, and represent
the most commonly available style. They may be used in cases
where pressure drop is not critical and the service application
does not require scraping or rodding.
Venturi-pattern designs provide maximum weight and cost
savings, because they have the smallest port area for a given
nominal valve size. Their use restrictions are the same as for
regular pattern valves.
The round-port full-bore pattern is the most expensive for a
given nominal size, but is required where pressure drop is
critical or where scraping or rodding will be required.
Plug Styles and

Seating Mechanisms
The plug opens or closes the flow path through the valve. A
full- or reduced-bore hole through one axis of the plug permits
straight-through flow when aligned with the longitudinal valve
axis and flow is blocked when the plug is rotated 90° to the
closed position. Common plug configurations are the full
cylindrical (usually tapered), and eccentric-cylindrical segment
styles.
The most common style is the full-cylindrical tapered plug, with
sealant grooves for the lubricated-type valve or resilient-seat
inserts for the soft-seal-type valve. This configuration is best
suited to the constant wedge- seating mechanism used with
lubricated plugs and to the lift-off, turn and reseat design used
for some nonlubricated types.

In the lift-off turn and reseat plug design, as the hand wheel is
rotated from the fully open or fully closed position, the stem
guide arrangement causes the plug to rise slightly out of the
body seat taper, rotate 90°, then reseat with a final downward
thrust. This feature minimizes operating torque and seat wear,
since there is no contact with the body seats during plug
rotation, and the plug/body seating surfaces are shielded from
the process fluid for both the open and closed positions.
Another plug style is the eccentric-mounted cylindrical segment.
The metal plug is equipped with resilient-seat inserts or a full
resilient facing for bubble-tight shutoff, or is all metal faced for
high-temperature applications where tight shutoff is not
required. The eccentric mounting of the plug causes a radial
thrust into the seats when the plug is rotated to the closed
position. This affords tight shutoff by seat compression but
avoids the frictional seat wear that accompanies plug rotation
when plugs and body seats are mounted concentrically. This
plug style may not be used in double block and bleed
applications, since there is only a single (downstream) sealing
face.
Plug Support
There are two basic methods of plug support: floating (or seat)
support, and trunnion support. These are analogous to the
support designs that are used in ball valves.
Seats
The degree of closure afforded by a plug valve depends on the

sealing capability of the plug and body seats. Where tight
closure is required, lubricated or soft-seal fire safe plug valves
may be used within the temperature limits of the lubricant or
soft-seal material.
For lubricated plug valves, the sealant provides the seal. The
second style uses metal seats with resilient inserts, required for
fire safe applications.
Sealant Seating (Lubricated Plugs) – For lubricated plug

valves, the sealant is the sealing mechanism as well as the
lubricant for the metal-to-metal seating interfaces. Bubble-tight
shutoff can be obtained when sealant is initially injected.
However, sealant pressure will dissipate with time via slow

leakage through the seating interface and periodic sealant

injection is required to maintain tight shutoff, particularly at
higher temperatures. The sealant must be chemically
compatible with the process fluid and have appropriate viscosity
for the intended operating temperature.
Combined Soft-Seal and Metal-to-Metal Seating, Fire safe

Design – The usual configuration for this seal-type is the
inclusion of a resilient material, such as Teflon or Viton, in a
retaining groove that is machined in the valve plug. The soft-
seal material must be chemically compatible with the process
fluid and adequate for the maximum design temperature. Teflon
is inert to most process fluids and has a maximum temperature
limit of 232°C (450°F). Viton is more resilient than Teflon, but is
less resistant to some process fluids and has a 204°C (400°F)
temperature limit. Other resilient seals are available, but their
temperature limits are generally lower. This seal-type is suitable
for fire safe service applications, due to its back-up metal-to-
metal seating in the case of fire damage to the soft seals.
However, a fire safe design must also incorporate appropriate
stem seals, cover gaskets, and cover bolting materials to
minimize external leakage, as well.

SELECTING THE TYPE AND SIZE OF A VALVE THAT IS SUITABLE

FOR PROCESS APPLICATIONS
Selecting the appropriate valve depends on the fluid in a piping
system, the system's design conditions, the service application,
the functions and types of valves (as discussed earlier in this
module), and the applicable SAES and SAMSS requirements.
Other considerations for selecting valves are discussed in
further detail in this section.
SAES-L-008 and the 04-SAMSS-series provide requirements
and limitations for valve selection. The valve selection
procedure, as described below and summarized in Work Aid 1,
is a guide for selecting the appropriate valve for the three
primary functions discussed earlier. However, it is important to
understand that selecting valves may simply be a matter of
duplicating valves from a system that has provided good
performance. Similarly, good experience with a particular valve
model in one service often justifies using the same model
elsewhere in an essentially identical service.

Step 1: List the Data Required
Basic piping system design and valve application data are

required before a valve can be selected.
Data Required Where to Find Data
1. Fluid service. (Such as steam, crude Design Specifications.

oil)
Refer to service categories summarized
in SAES-L-008.
2. Valve function. (Block, throttling) By knowledge of function desired.
3. Design temperature and pressure. Design Specifications.
4. Material and corrosion allowance. Design Specifications, SAES-L-008.
5. Application. (Such as isolation, By knowledge of function desired.
product segregation)
6. Special features desired. (Such as Design Specifications; process
quick on/off, bubble-tight shutoff). engineer, operating experience.
7. Size. Design Specifications.
Review of the data that is collected will begin to narrow the

choices of potentially suitable valves. For example, if a block
valve is needed, all the check valve-types are immediately
eliminated from consideration.
Valve Sizing
In most cases, valve size is identical to pipe size. In some

cases, a valve must be larger than the pipe in order to pass the
required flow-rate due to pressure drop across the particular
valve-type being used. In other cases, it might be
advantageous for a valve to be smaller for economic reasons.
When fluid is flowing steadily in a long, straight pipe of uniform
diameter, the flow pattern assumes a certain characteristic form.
Any disruption, such as due to friction, will cause a drop in
pressure. Valves also disrupt the flow pattern and, therefore,

cause a pressure drop in the piping system. The loss of

pressure produced by a valve consists of:
• The pressure drop within the valve itself.
• The pressure drop in the upstream and downstream piping

that exceeds what would normally occur if there was no
valve in the line.
Equations are used to calculate the pressure drop across a
valve, based on the flow characteristics of the particular valve-
type. It must be determined whether the pressure drop is
acceptable for the process design requirements. Since the
pressure drop caused by valves can affect the size of the valve,
it can also influence the selection of one valve-type over
another, since different valve-types have different pressure-drop
characteristics. It is also normally the process design engineer
who determines whether the system pressure drop is
acceptable. Further discussion of pressure drop across valves
is beyond the scope of this course.
Step 2: Identify Suitable Valve-Types and Components

Based on the required valve function and other applicable data,
numerous valve-types may be suitable for a particular service.
The previous section on valve-types discussed the suitability of
valve-types for particular functions. A chart included in Work
Aid 1 matches valve functions with suitable types. This
information is then combined to develop a list of the valve types
suitable for the application. At this point in the process, there
may still be multiple candidates, in which case the following
should be considered:
• A gate valve will be used for most block valve applications.
• A globe valve will be used for most throttling applications.
• A swing check valve will be used for most flow-reversal

prevention applications.

Step 3: Determine Valve-Type Limitations for Suitable Valves

through Saudi Aramco Engineering Standard SAES-L-008,
Selection of Valves
Saudi Aramco Engineering Standard SAES-L-008, Selection of
Valves, provides limitations on the use of specific valve-types
for particular applications. It also contains materials
requirements for the valve body, trim and packing.
SAES-L-008 discusses:
• The limitations on the selection of all valves normally
classified under the 04-SAMSS-series. Where applicable,
this standard supplements the requirements of the
ASME/ANSI B31 Codes for pressure piping.
• General design limitations for major valve components.
These include:
Bonnets
− Pressure-seal bonnets shall only be used in steam or
other clean, noncorrosive services. A pressure-seal
bonnet valve relies on a metal-to-metal seal to prevent
external leakage at the bonnet. Corrosive- or high-
fouling-type services could affect the long-term reliability
of this metal-to-metal seal.
− Welded bonnet valves are limited to a 50 mm (2 in.)
maximum size. They are generally also not permitted in
wet, sour service except where severe vibration is
expected. A welded bonnet valve does not permit easy
internal access. Therefore, their use is limited to low-cost
valves (i.e., small size) where they will be discarded
rather than maintained. They are generally not used in
wet, sour service since a higher degree of maintenance
could be expected.
− Screwed bonnet or body valves must have a locking pin
or be tack-welded to the valve body for all hydrocarbon or
hazardous services. The concern here is that the
threaded joint may become loose and leak during
operation.

− Union bonnet valves are not permitted in any

hydrocarbon or hazardous services. Here again, the
concern is that the connection may loosen and leak
during operation.
End Connections
− Valve end connection requirements and limitations are
generally identical to those of other pipe and fittings, as
specified in SAES-L-010.
− If valves have soft seats, and have either threaded ends
with seal welds or are socket-welded, the soft seats must
be removed before welding or the valves supplied with
factory-installed nipples. The concern here is that if field
welding is done too close to the valve seats, the welding
heat will damage the seats.
Ratings
− The ratings for soft-seated valves must be suitable for the
design conditions and consider any limitations of the soft-
seat material. The maximum permitted temperature for a
soft-seat-type valve is typically in the range 93-232°C
(200-450°F), depending on the soft-seat material used.
− In hydrocarbon services, the minimum rating for
threaded- and socket-welded-type valves 50 mm (2 in.)
NPS and smaller in size must be Class 800 per API 602.
This ensures a basic strength in these small valves to
withstand mechanical or physical abuse, not just the
design pressure/temperature.
Stem Packing
− Isolation valves 75 mm (3 in.) NPS and larger in
hydrocarbon services shall not have stem packing or
seals that are pure polymer or elastomer, unless the
valves are qualified as being firesafe. The concern here
is that in the event of a fire in the vicinity, these packing
materials would be destroyed and significant leakage
from the packing gland would make the fire worse.
Stems
− Inside screw/rising stem (ISRS) and nonrising-stem
(NRS) valves 38 mm (1 1/2 in.) NPS and smaller shall
not be used in corrosive hydrocarbon services. The

concern here is that the stem threads could corrode and

thus hinder valve movement.
• Specific valve-type limitations. These include:

Ball Valves
− Stems must be blowout-proof. This is required to permit
loosening the packing gland and repacking the valve
while the system is under pressure.
− Welded-body-type ball valves cannot be used in services
where damage to the soft seats during commissioning
and/or operation cannot be avoided and must be
anticipated. Internal maintenance on this valve-type is
difficult, since the valve body must be cut open for
access. Therefore, it should not be used where seat
damage can be anticipated.
Butterfly Valves
− Concentric butterfly valves are permitted only in
nonhydrocarbon, noncritical applications. Such a valve
design cannot have firesafe capability, so it could not be
used as a block valve for other than these services.
− High-performance butterfly valves in hydrocarbon service
are limited to ASME/ANSI Class 300. They must meet
API 609, Lug- And Wafer-Type Butterfly Valves, and
have an offset-seat construction, be firesafe, generally
have a full-lug design, and not have a preferred flow
direction. These requirements permit using this
potentially lower-cost valve option for the lower ANSI
Classes, while ensuring a high-quality valve is obtained
(API 609 and firesafe), and that it will seal against flow
from either direction.
Check Valves
− Dual- and single-plate wafer check valves shall not be
used in pulsating services, such as in reciprocating pump
or compressor systems. The concern here is that the
pressure pulsations will cause the valve discs to
continually open and shut, and lead to eventual fatigue
failure of the closure springs or plates.
− Nonslam-type check valves must be installed in the
discharge lines of pumps or compressors that are
installed in parallel. In such an arrangement, the

equipment is spared and will be periodically switched in

operation. This will lead to a flow-reversal situation which
is part of normal operation, rather than being an upset.
Thus a nonslam-type check valve (i.e., one without
spring-assisted closure) would be less prone to disk
failure resulting from repeated operation.
• Specific service limitations. These include:

Low-temperature Service
− The requirements of Saudi Aramco Material System
Specification 04-SAMSS-003, Additional Requirements
for Low-Temperature Valves, must be met for services
between -45 and 0°C (-50 and 32°F). These
requirements are meant to prevent brittle fracture of the
valve body.
− Valves for services less than -45°C (-50°F) must be
austenitic stainless steel and meet 04-SAMSS-003.
Again, this is for brittle fracture prevention.
− All valves in services below -100°C (-150°F) must have
extended bonnets. An extended bonnet valve is
equipped with bonnet/stem extensions, with the packing
gland located at the top. This provides an insulating gas
column to moderate the temperature in the packing gland
region. This avoids excessive packing shrinkage and ice-
up around the stem, which can cause external leakage or
valve cycling problems, respectively.
Underwater Valves
− Isolation valves must be ball-type per 04-SAMSS-051,
Ball Valves, and have a minimum rating of ASME/ANSI
Class 300. The quick-shutoff capability of a ball valve is
desirable in underwater applications. The Class 300
provides a minimum degree of mechanical strength for
use in underwater applications, even if Class 150 would
be sufficient based on pressure/temperature
considerations alone.
Isolation Services
− Only gate, ball, or plug valves may be used as isolation
valves in pressure-relief valve inlet and discharge piping,
flare systems, or for emergency isolation. These are
critical, plant safety-related applications, and these valve-
types are felt to be the most reliable.

− Gate valves used around pressure-relief valves or in flare

systems must be installed with the stem installed either
horizontal or sloping down, away from the valve. These
valves will normally be full-open when the unit is in
operation to permit unimpeded flow through the safety
systems. It is essential from a safety standpoint that
these lines remain unobstructed. Mounting gate valves
as specified ensures that the flow passage will remain
open if the stem fails. If gate valves are mounted
otherwise, a stem failure could permit the gate to fall
shut, thus blocking the safety-relief path. This concern
does not exist for either ball or plug valves, since a stem
failure would not cause movement of their closure
components.
− Soft-seated emergency isolation valves are to be certified
firesafe in accordance with specified industry standards.
Isolation valves are often needed to segregate sections
of a plant during a fire, so they must be able to perform
this function even if the soft seat is damaged.
− Emergency shutdown (ESD) valves must be ball valves
with a suitable power actuator. These valves must fully
close in the shortest possible time, thus leading to the
use of ball valves.
− Flangeless valves shall not be used as the first block
valve against storage tanks or vessels that contain
hazardous materials. A flangeless valve is mounted
between two pipe flanges, with gaskets on each side of
the valve and long studs that span the flanges and valve.
This results in two, gasketed joints being held tight by
one set of studs. The concern with such a valve in the
stated applications is in a fire situation. Thermal
expansion of the long studs due to the heat of a fire could
cause the gasketed joints to loosen and significant
external leakage to occur. Thus the closed block valve
would be ineffective in keeping the large volume of
hazardous material from adding to the emergency.
• Materials limitations. These include:

− Valves with bodies of cast or ductile iron, or low melting-
point alloys such as brass or bronze, shall not be used in
hydrocarbon services. In the event of a fire in the vicinity,
valves made of these relatively low-strength materials
could easily fail and add more fuel to the fire.

− Valves with either steel or ductile iron bodies must be

used in several specified applications. However ductile
iron still cannot be used in hydrocarbon services, as
previously stated. The specified applications are:
+ The first valve on all tanks and vessels if valve
failure could result in personnel or fire hazard, or a
large monetary loss.
+ Isolation valves on main utility lines entering a
plant area, where the operating and shut-off
valves are cast iron or nonferrous construction.
+ In hazardous areas where it is essential that the
valve do not fail in a fire, as in aboveground
firewater-system block valves.
The valve applications identified are critical from a safety
standpoint. Therefore, these requirements ensure that low-
strength body materials are not permitted.
− Minimum valve material requirements are specified
based on fluid service. Asbestos gaskets and packing are
not to be used whenever there is a technically acceptable
nonasbestos product available.
SAES-L-008 also provides tables that provide service and
application requirements.
• Table I, Service and Application Requirements, Valve Body

and Trim Material, must be referred to for all valve
applications. It specifies acceptable valve body and trim
materials based on the fluid environment, concentration, and
design temperature. The main focus of this table is gate
valves, but its requirements are also to be applied to other
valve-types as applicable.
• Table II, Alternate Stem and Spring Materials, provides

acceptable alternatives for situations in which a different
material from the trim specified in Table I is desirable for a
valve stem or spring. This might be necessary for
fabrication, availability, or cost reasons.
• Table III, Service & Application Requirements,

Plastic/Elastomeric Components, must be referred to for
soft-seated-type valves. It specifies acceptable materials for
nonmetallic valve components based on the fluid
environment.

• Table IV, Metallic Materials Designations, defines the

abbreviations that are used in the standard.
• Table V, Packings, must be used to specify packing material

based on fluid service and design temperature.
• Table VI, Gaskets, must be used to specify valve-bonnet
gaskets. This table is used in conjunction with Tables I, III,
and V, and the gasket-type being used for piping.
Step 4: Finalize Valve Selection by Considering Other Factors

When two or more valves are found to be suitable for a specific
service, several additional factors must be evaluated before
making the final selection.
Standardization
There may be strong preferences for certain valve types for

particular applications or at certain sites. This information can
be found in the piping specifications, material inventory,
maintenance department office, or purchasing department
notes.
Inventory
Certain valves may be available, avoiding the need for new

purchases.
Experience
Good or bad experience with certain valve-types in similar

situations may influence the final selection. Data may be
available from operations or maintenance departments.

Cost
Sometimes two valves can be suitable, but one may be less

expensive. Data should be obtained from a cost estimating
manual, vendors, or the purchasing department.
Delivery Time
Valves of large size, alloy, or high-pressure class may have a

delivery time of six months to two years. This should be
checked if there is a possibility of hampering project completion.
Materials
Substitution of a different but acceptable material may permit

cost or delivery time credits. SAES-L-008 and the 04-SAMSS-
series provide material requirements.
Dimensions
Replacement valves should have the same face-to-face

dimensions as the original valves.
After evaluating all the criteria, it may be found that none of the
valve types being considered is ideal. At this point,
consideration must be given to using less stringent criteria. For
example, can a higher cost be justified to gain greater service
reliability?
Step 5: Provide a Full Description

A full description of a valve-type requires the engineer to specify
additional information, as summarized in Work Aid 1. The 04-
SAMSS-series provides additional design requirements for
specific valve-types. These include:
• References to appropriate industry standards and other

Saudi Aramco requirements.
• Modifications to industry standards to make a valve suitable

for Saudi Aramco applications.
• Specific design, materials, testing, inspection, marking, and

shipping requirements that are appropriate for Saudi Aramco
applications. These typically go beyond what is already

specified in an industry standard, make selections where

options are available, or provide coverage where none is
available and Saudi Aramco does not wish to accept the
valve manufacturer's standard design.
The following summarizes the SAMSS's that relate to valves:
• 04-SAMSS-001 - Gate Valves.
• 04-SAMSS-002 - Globe Valves.
• 04-SAMSS-003 - Additional Requirements for Low-

Temperature Valves.
• 04-SAMSS-005 - Check Valves, Swing-Type.
• 04-SAMSS-035 - General Requirements for Valves.
• 04-SAMSS-041 - Expanding Plug Valve.
• 04-SAMSS-042 - 4-Way Diverter Valve.
• 04-SAMSS-048 - Valve Inspection and Testing

Requirements.
• 04-SAMSS-049 - Inspection and Testing Requirements for

API 6A 10,000 psi Valves.
• 04-SAMSS-050 - Gate Valves, Through-Conduit-Type, API

6D.
• 04-SAMSS-051 - Ball Valves, API 6D.
• 04-SAMSS-052 - Ball Valves, API 6A.

Note that several of the valve-types that are included in the
listed SAMSS's were not discussed. These are beyond the
scope of this course. It should also be noted that 04-SAMSS-
003 applies to all valves with a minimum design temperature
between 0°C and -46°C (32°F and -50°F) regardless of type and
04-SAMSS-035 and 04-SAMSS-048 applies to all valve types.
Thus, they should also be included in the valve purchase order.

Since the requirements of 04-SAMSS-035 apply to all valves,

several items contained within it are highlighted below:
• The valve vendor must submit detailed drawings for Saudi

Aramco review and approval.
• For drains, vents, and other body fittings:
• Threaded and socket-welded connections are limited to a

maximum
of 38 mm (1 1/2 in.) NPS.
− The minimum body rating is to be Class 800 per API 602.
• Buried double-block and bleed valves are to have their vent

and drain connections, and any supplied sealant injection
fittings, extended aboveground in accordance with specified
requirements.
• Material requirements are specified for carbon steel butt-

welding end valves, hard facing material, austenitic stainless
steel valves, and bonnet or packing gland bolting.
• Plating requirements are specified.
• Bolting requirements are specified.
• Valve operator and actuator requirements are specified.
• Quality assurance, painting and coating, preparation for

shipment, and marking requirements are specified.
The 04-SAMSS-series of valve specifications generally
reference industry valve standards to use as base design
documents where such standards exist for particular valve-
types. There are also industry standards for valve-types for
which there are no 04-SAMSS specifications. Table 1
summarizes the currently available industry standards for
valves, and the general extent of their coverage.
It should again be noted that Saudi Aramco has computerized
the SAMSS’s requirements, as discussed in MEX 101.02.
Therefore, once a particular valve-type has been selected, a
complete purchase description can be obtained, along with
acceptable vendors and a Saudi Aramco stock number.

Table 1. Information on Valve Sizes, Ratings and Standards
VALVE BODY APPLICABLE SIZE (1) RECOM RATING

TYPE MATERIAL VALVE AVAIL, in. SIZE AVAILABLE
STANDARD & LIMIT
SIZE (6)
Gate Steel API 600,1-24 1-24 ≥2 150-2500
Gate Steel API 602,1/4 -4 1/4-2 <2 800 (BODY)
Gate CRA (4) API 603,1/2-12 1/2 12 150
Gate, Soft-Seat Steel API 600,1 -24 3-24 ≥2 150-2500
Gate, Soft-Seat CRA (4) API 603,1/2-12 (2) 150 (3)
Gate, Venturi Steel 2-24 150-600
Gate, Venturi CRA (4) 150
Gate, Venturi Steel 2-24 150-600 (3)
Soft-Seat
Globe, Type Steel 2-8 150-2500
Ball, Soft-Seat Steel API 608,1/2-12 TO 20 150-600 (3)
Ball, Soft-Seat CRA API 608,1/2-12 (2) 300 (3)
Plug, Steel API 599,1-24 1-18 150-2500
Nonlubricated
Plug, Lubricated Steel API 599,1-24 1-24 150-2500
Plug, Soft-Seat Steel API 599,1-24 2-36 150-600 (3)
Butterfly, Rubber- Steel 3-24 150 (3)
Lined
Butterfly, Rubber- Cast Iron AWWA C504, 3-72 25,75,150 (3)
Lined 3-72
Butterfly, Soft- Steel 3-72 150-600 (3)
Seat
Butterfly, Soft- CRA 3-72 150-600 (3)
Seat
Globe Steel TO 24 150-2500
Globe CRA 1/2-12 150-600
Swing Check Steel ALL 150-2500
Swing Check CRA 1/2-12 150-300 (2)
Lift Check Steel 3/4-3 TO 600
Lift Check CRA 3/4-3 TO 600 (2)

Table 1. Information on Valve Sizes, Ratings and Standards (continued)
Ball Check Steel 3/4-3 <2 TO 600

Ball Check CRA 1/4-2 <2 TO 600
Dual-Plate Wafer Steel API 594, 2-48 (5) (5)
Check
Dual-Plate Wafer Steel API 594, 2-48 (5) (5)
Check, Soft-Seat
CRA = Corrosion-Resistant Alloy: Type 304, 316, or 347 stainless steel, or Alloy 20
NOTES:
(1) Varies significantly depending on material and rating. Listed size represents maximum regularly manufactured
by one or more vendors for Class 150 and 300 carbon steel. Larger sizes always available on special order
basis.
(2) Depends on which alloy. Up to six inch size is generally available in all alloys.
(3) Rating limited by pressure/temperature limits of soft-seat material. Refer to manufacturer's standard.
(4) Note that the pressure ratings shown in the API 603 standard are less than those in ASME/ANSI B16.5 for
Class 150. Also, the API 603 ratings are only for valves.
(5) Valves in sizes: 2 in. through 12 in. available in all ratings.
14 in. through 24 in. available through Class 900 rating.
20 in. through 48 in. available through Class 300 rating.
(6) ASME/ANSI B16.34 wall thickness’ can be specified for steel or CRA valves with CA <1/8 in. When another
standard also applies, both can be referenced, e.g. Class 300 nickel alloy gate valve per API 600 except wall
thickness per ASME/ANSI B16.34

Sample Problem 1: Part A.

The following situation and design information is used to
illustrate the valve selection process. The problem is divided
into two parts.
Figure 13 shows a new pump piping system being installed at
the Ras Tanura refinery. The letters “A” through “E” indicates
general locations for valves. The 250 mm (10 in.) diameter
pump P-101 suction line comes from T-100, and the 200 mm (8
in.) diameter discharge line goes to D-200. There is a 100 mm
(4 in.) diameter diversion line coming off the discharge line that
takes a portion of the flow to E-300. The following additional
design conditions apply to this system:
• The pipe material is carbon steel with a 1.5 mm (1/16 in.)

corrosion allowance. No special material requirements are
specified with regard to low-temperature properties.
• All the pipe connections are flanged.
• The design temperature is 149°C (300°F) for both the

suction and the discharge systems.
• The design pressure is 1,379 kPa (200 psig) for the suction
system and 2,413 kPa (350 psig) for the discharge system.
• The fluid involved is a dangerous hydrocarbon.
100mm (4") Ø
200mm (8") Ø Discharge D E

250mm (10") Ø Suction
From C B
T-100 A Pump
1379 kPa (200 psig) P-101 2413 kPa (350 psig)
149°C (300°F) 149°C (300°F)
Figure 13. Pump Rising System

Solution: Part A
Identifying the job function required for each of the valves
indicated in the system is the first step in selecting the
appropriate valve-type for a particular application.
a. It will be necessary to take the pump out of service for
periodic maintenance while the rest of the unit remains in
operation. The valves at locations "A" and "B" must be
used for this purpose. What valve function will they
perform?
The valve at location "A" must completely isolate the
pump from the fluid flow conditions upstream. The valve
at location "B" must completely isolate the pump from the
fluid flow conditions downstream. Isolating the pump
from fluid flow is necessary to safely remove the pump
from the system for maintenance. Therefore, these
valves serve to block flow. Permitting on stream
equipment maintenance is one of the primary reasons for
using a valve to block flow.
b. Pump internals are designed to turn in the direction of
normal flow through the pump. They may be damaged if
forced to turn backwards during upset conditions
downstream of the pump. Such conditions could cause
the flow to reverse its normal direction. The valve at
location "C" must prevent damage to the pump internals
if an upset condition occurs. What valve function will it
perform?
The valve at location "C" must prevent flow reversal back
through the pump. This is a typical valve function
required in all pump and compressor discharge systems
to prevent damage to the machinery.
c. Most of the pump discharge flow is to go to D-200, with

the rest going to E-300 through the 100 mm (4 in.)
diameter diversion line. The amount of flow going to E-
300 depends on the operational needs of the unit. It can
vary from zero up to the maximum flow capacity of the
100 mm (4 in.) line. The valve at location "D" controls
this flow rate. What function does it perform?
Since this valve is being used to control flow down
stream of the pump, it is being used to throttle flow.

d. Another valve is in the diversion line at location "E."

There are situations when it is necessary to completely
isolate the system, in the vicinity of E-300, from the
P-101/D-200 system. This need arises when a different
fluid is being used in the E-300 system, and it is
necessary to prevent mixing of the two fluids. The valve
at location "E" serves this purpose. What function does
the valve perform?
This is another example of a valve being used to block
flow. In this case, equipment is not being taken out of
service with the piping being opened to the atmosphere.
Instead, a piping system is being divided to perform two
separate functions with different fluids. The valve is
being used to block the mixing of the two fluids.

Sample Problem 1: Part B

This problem will now be continued to select appropriate valve-
types for the valves at locations "A" through "E." Use Work Aid
1 and the information previously discussed to help solve this
problem. The following additional information is provided to aid
in this selection process:
• The change in service that requires the block valve at

location "E" will sometimes occur very quickly. Thus,
separation between the two systems must be accomplished
as quickly as possible. In addition, shutoff must be bubble-
tight so that the two fluids do not mix.
• The throttling valve at location "D" does not need to have

any tight shutoff capability, because the valve at "E" serves
that function.
• The block valves at "A" and "B" do not require bubble-tight

shutoff or especially quick functioning.
• The maintenance staff at the refinery is very small. Every

effort is made to use low-maintenance equipment when
available.
• The total pump piping system consists of two pumps in

parallel, P-101A and P-101B. Only one of the two pumps is
in operation at any one time, thus providing a spare to permit
maintenance on the other.
What valve types should be used at locations "A" through "E?"

Solution: Part B
Locations "A" and

"B"
Referring to Work Aid 1, most of the possible block valve-types

can be eliminated from consideration.
• All of the soft-seat and quarter-turn valves can be

immediately eliminated because these locations do not
require those features.
• The through-conduit gate valve is eliminated because this is

not a pipeline service.
• The globe valve is eliminated because no throttling is

required.
• The nonlubricated plug valve is eliminated because it should

be considered for inherently safe services only.
With the above elimination’s, the selection has been narrowed
down to a wedge-gate and a lubricated plug valve. Since a
lubricated plug valve requires more maintenance to function
properly (i.e., periodic addition of lubricant), a wedge-gate valve
should be used.
Location "C"
Referring to Work Aid 1, both lift and ball check valves can be
eliminated because they are typically available only in sizes of
up to 50 mm (2 in.) in diameter. This leaves the swing check
and dual-plate wafer check valves to choose from.
SAES-L-008 requires using a non-slam type check valve at the
discharge of pumps or compressors that are in a parallel flow
arrangement. Because of the spare pump arrangement, this is
a parallel flow situation. This eliminates the dual-plate wafer
check valve because of its spring-assisted closure. Therefore, a
swing check valve should be used.

Location "D"
Referring to Work Aid 1, the rubber-lined butterfly valve may be

eliminated because this is not a water service. That leaves
either the soft-seat or metal-seat butterfly valves, or the globe
valve as likely candidates.
The soft-seat butterfly valve can be eliminated since bubble-
tight shutoff is not a requirement. Therefore, the metal-seat
butterfly valve and the globe valve are the only potential
candidates. At this point, the choice between the two valves
must be based on cost and pressure drop considerations.
Further information regarding the flow characteristics of the two
valves, pressure drop limitations in the system, and valve cost is
required to make the final selection. This information can be
obtained from process engineers and the valve vendors. The
metal-seated, wafer-type butterfly valve will probably have the
lower cost and pressure drop, and will probably be the ultimate
choice.
Location "E"
Referring to Work Aid 1, because of the requirements for quick,

bubble-tight shutoff, only the quarter-turn valves can be
considered for this location.
• The rubber-lined butterfly valve is eliminated because it is not

water service.
• The nonlubricated plug valve is eliminated because tight

shutoff is not possible with this valve type.
• The lubricated plug valve is eliminated because of

maintenance considerations.
These eliminations limit the choice to the soft-seat ball, soft-seat
plug, or soft-seat butterfly valves. However, the choice cannot be
narrowed to a single selection without additional information.
Factors including relative cost, standardization, and availability
must be considered before making the final selection.

Once the particular valve-type is selected, choices among

available components and design details must be made as
appropriate. Further discussion of this aspect of valve selection is
beyond the scope of this course. Participants are referred to the
earlier discussions covering valve components, and the checklist
contained in Work Aid 1, for additional guidance.
Determining the Required Valve Class and Associated MAOP

After a valve is selected, the rating class and MAOP must be
determined. A valve is not completely specified until its class is
also specified. The rating class must be supplied to the vendor.
As discussed with flanges and fittings in MEX 101.04,
pressure/temperature-rating tables will be used to determine
valve class. However, in the case of valves, ASME/ANSI
B16.34, Valves - Flanged, Threaded, and Welding End, will be
used.
This section will discuss the selection of the appropriate
pressure/temperature rating class for valves.
Class is based on pressure, temperature, and material, and is
determined in accordance with pressure/temperature rating
tables, the material group, and design temperature and
pressure. The approach is analogous to that used for flanges
and flanged fittings, discussed in MEX 101.04. Selecting class
sets all the detailed dimensions for valves within the scope of
ASME/ANSI B16.34. The objective is to select the lowest class
appropriate for the design conditions.
ASME/ANSI B16.34 applies to new valve construction and
covers pressure/temperature ratings, dimensions, tolerances,
material, nondestructive examination requirements, testing, and
marking for cast, forged, and fabricated flanged, threaded, and
welding-end, and wafer or flangeless valves of steel, nickel-base
alloys, and other alloys.
• ASME/ANSI B16.34 contains eight designated classes: 150,

300, 400, 600, 900, 1500, 2500, and 4500.
• Each class specifies the design pressure and temperature

combinations that are acceptable for a valve having that
designation.

• As the number of the class increases, the strength of the

valve increases. Therefore, higher valve classes can
withstand higher pressure/temperature combinations.
• As the number of the class increases, the cost of the valve

also increases because more material is being used to make
the higher class stronger. Therefore, there is an economic
incentive to use the lowest class that will meet the design
requirements.
• Each of the valve material groups has a table in ASME/ANSI

B16.34 that provides the ratings for that group. Figure 14 is
a list of material specifications, and Table 2 is for Group 1.1
materials. Note that all pressure classes are in the one
table.
• Valve flange-type must match pipe flange-type.

Source: ASME/ANSI B16.34 - 1990. With Permission from the American Society of Mechanical
Engineers.
Figure 14. List of Material Specifications

Table 2. Standard Class Ratings for Group 1.1 Materials
A 105(a) A 515 70(a) A 675 70 A 672 B70(a)

A 215 WCB(a) A 516 70(a) A 696 gr. 0 A 675 C70(a)
A 240 LF2 (d) A 527 CI.1(d)
NOTES:
(a) Permissible, but not recommended for prolonged usage above about 800°F.
(d) Not to be used over 650°F.
Table 3. Special Class, Working Pressure by Classes, psi
Temperature °F 150 300 400 600 900 1500 2500 4500
-20 to 100 285 740 990 1,480 2,220 3,705 6,170 11,110
200 260 675 900 1,350 2,025 3,375 5,625 10,120
300 230 655 875 1,315 1,970 3,280 5,470 9,845
400 200 635 845 1,270 1,900 3,170 5,280 9,505
500 170 600 800 1,200 1,795 2,995 4,990 8,980
600 140 550 730 1,095 1,640 2,735 4,560 8,210

650 125 535 715 1,075 1,610 2,685 4,475 8,055
700 110 535 710 1,065 1,600 2,665 4,440 7,990
750 95 505 670 1,010 1,510 2,510 4,200 7,560
800 80 410 550 825 1,235 2,060 3,430 6,170
850 65 270 355 535 805 1,340 2,230 4,010

900 50 170 230 345 515 860 1,430 2,570
950 35 105 140 205 310 515 860 1,545
1000 20 50 70 105 155 260 430 770

Table 3. Special Class, Working Pressure by Classes, psi

(continued)
Temperature °F 150 300 400 600 900 1500 2500 4500
-20 to 100 290 750 1,000 1,500 2,250 3,750 6,250 11,250
200 290 750 1,000 1,500 2,250 3,750 6,250 11,250
300 290 750 1,000 1,500 2,250 3,750 6,250 11,250
400 290 750 1,000 1,500 2,250 3,750 6,250 11,250
500 290 750 1,000 1,500 2,250 3,750 6,250 11,250
600 275 715 950 1,425 2,140 3,565 5,940 10,690

650 270 700 935 1,400 2,100 3,495 5,825 10,485
700 265 695 925 1,390 2,080 3,470 5,780 10,405
750 240 630 840 1,260 1,890 3,150 5,250 9,450
800 200 515 685 1,030 1,545 2,570 4,285 7,715
850 130 335 445 670 1,005 1,670 2,785 5,015

900 85 215 285 430 645 1,070 1,785 3,215
950 50 130 170 260 385 645 1,070 1,930
1000 25 65 85 130 195 320 535 965
Source: ASME/ANSI B16.34 - 1990. With Permission from the American Society of
Mechanical Engineers.

Pressure/Temperature Ratings
Flanged-end valves are rated as Standard Class. Threaded or
welding-end valves may be rated as a special class, permitting
higher pressure than a Standard Class if additional inspection is
made.
Class 4500 applies only to welding-end valves.
Figure 15 illustrates how temperature typically affects valve
pressure limits for a given class, and how the use of soft-seat
material reduces the permitted design pressure as temperature
increases. Note that the actual pressure reduction with
temperature depends on the particular soft-seat material and
valve seat design details.
Figure 15. Typical Pressure/Temperature Limits for

Gate and Ball Valves
The procedure that is used to select the appropriate valve class

is summarized in Work Aid 2A.

IDENTIFYING VALVE INSPECTION AND TESTING REQUIREMENTS

All valves require a certain degree of inspection and testing
before installation and during operation. This is true for both
new and reconditioned valves. The engineer generally does not
actually perform or witness the tests. He must specify the
mandatory tests for vendors to execute. This section reviews
the types of inspection and test procedures that are utilized,
where they are specified, and when they should be applied.
Requirements for valve inspection and testing are covered in
Saudi Aramco Materials System Specification 04-SAMSS-048,
Valve Inspection and Testing Requirements. 04-SAMSS-048
references which industry standards apply, plus additional Saudi
Aramco requirements.
Several different inspections and testing methods are normally
applied to valves. The selection of a particular method is
governed by valve material, rating, service conditions, and other
considerations. Inspection methods vary from the quick and
simple visual inspection of a valve casting and components to
more sophisticated radiographic examinations. Test methods
may include hydrostatic and/or pneumatic testing of the
assembled valve and seats. Impact tests may be required
based on the temperature conditions, material, and body
thickness.
Material testing ensures that materials that are used in the valve
meet material specifications with respect to chemistry, strength,
and hardness. Pressure testing ensures the integrity of the
valve body and valve seat tightness when closed.

Minimum Inspection Requirements for New Valves

04-SAMSS-048 requires that, as a minimum, each valve be
tested, examined, and qualified per the industry standard
referenced in the purchase order and the applicable 04-SAMSS
valve specification. Supplementary requirements are contained
within 04-SAMSS-048. API 598, Valve Inspection and Testing,
is the basic document used for inspection and testing of gate-,
globe-, plug-, ball-, check-, and butterfly-type valves. The
following highlight requirements that are contained in API 598
and 04-SAMSS-048, plus additional inspection guidelines.
Work Aid 2A summarizes overall valve inspection and testing
requirements based on 04-SAMSS-048 and API 598.
The minimum inspection required by API 598 is an examination
of the valve casting and components. This examination
includes a check of all the valve features listed on the purchase
order such as size, rating (and wall thickness), end connections
material, etc. In addition, when a valve model number has been
included in the purchase order, all dimensions should be
checked against those shown in the vendor's catalog.
Surface Examination
A visual check of the valve body casting is required to ensure

conformance with the minimum casting quality specified by MSS
SP-55, Quality Standard for Steel Castings for Valves, Flanges
and Fittings and Other Piping Components - Visual Method.
The minimum number of available valves of a given style and
size to be so inspected at a given time is:
Number Ready Number Examined
10 or less All
More than 10 15% (min. of 10)
Special All
Special valves are those requiring nondestructive examination
of the shell (radiography, magnetic particle, etc.), impact testing
of the shell and bolting; motor operators; or of Monel, Hastelloy
or aluminum material. If objectionable castings are found, the
percent inspected should be doubled. If additional defects are
found in these, all the valves should be inspected. This is done
to confirm that the valves meet the dimensional requirements of
the relevant standards and that the supplied components meet
the purchase requirements.

Dimensional and
Component Checks
Dimensional and component checks are conducted at the same

time and on about one-half of the valves that are surface
examined. Essential dimensions/component features to be
checked are:
• The finish on flange faces and ring joints.
• Face-to-face dimension.
• Flange outside diameter, bolt circle diameter, bolt hole

diameter, flange thickness.
• Body wall thickness (per applicable standard).
• Bevel preparation on welding-end valves.
• Stem diameter.
• Threaded ends (size and taper, if required).
• Socket-end concentricity and wall thickness (per ANSI

B16.11).
• For gate valves, with the gate closed, the position of the gate
seat rings relative to the body seat rings to confirm sufficient
wear travel position.
• For soft-sealed gate valves, the height of the soft seal above
the metal seats, the width of the soft seal, and the total width
of the metal seat outside the soft seal.
• Component features as specified in the purchase order

(such as stem packing material, bonnet gasket-type,
operator-type, soft-seal material, body bleed number, and
location).
• Materials identification. Obtain chemical and physical test

data on steel and alloy steel castings for all valves
inspected. All alloys bolting must be identified by markings
required by the specifications on the stud or bolt ends, or on
nuts.
• Additional tests conforming to SAMSS requirements, such

as hardness or impact testing, may also be required if
specified in the purchase order.

The minimum testing required by API 598 is a pressure test of

the shell, back seat (if any), and seats. Test pressures and
durations are specified in API 598, based on valve sizes and the
type of test. Specific test procedures per API 598 will be
discussed.
Shell Test
The Shell Test is conducted first, to assure that any body

distortions that result from this high-pressure test will be
reflected in subsequent seat tests at lower pressures. This test
confirms the basic structural integrity of the valve. Test
pressure is to be in accordance with API 598, based on valve
material and pressure class. For steel-flanged and butt-welded
valves, API 598 requires that test pressures be in accordance
with ASME/ANSI B16.34 [1.5 times the 38°C (100°F) rating
pressure rounded up to the nearest 172 kPA (25 psig)].
Pressure must be applied across the full bore of the valve, not
through a reduced-bore and adapter. The test fluid should
preferably be water. While API 598 permits pneumatic testing,
this should be allowed only if the inspector has reviewed the test
procedures and set-up to be sure that adequate safety
precautions are taken. No leakage is permitted during the shell
test.
Back Seat Test
The Back Seat Test is conducted after the Shell Test with same
test fluid. Test pressure is to be 110% of the pressure rating at
38°C (100°F). The stem is to be fully open (back seated), and
the stem packing is to be loose. No leakage is permitted during
this test. This test may be conducted in conjunction with the
optional high-pressure Closure Test. The purpose of this test is
to confirm that the valve stem packing may be removed and
reinstalled while the valve is still under system pressure with the
stem fully open.

Low-pressure
Closure Test
The low-pressure Closure Test is conducted with air (or inert

gas) at 414-690 kPa (60-100 psig). The air discharge is to be
slightly below a water surface to facilitate determination of
leakage rates. For valves with body bleeds, the test procedure
should be per API 598, Paragraph 4.4.2c, and leakage shall be
measured through the open bleed. This requires that pressure
be applied successively to each side of the closure component,
and leakage checked through the open bleed valve. This
confirms that each seat seals, which is necessary for block and
bleed capability. For valves without body bleeds, the test
procedure shall be per API 598, Paragraph 4.4.2a. This
requires that pressure be applied successively to each side of
the closure components and leakage be checked on the other
side. This confirms that leakage across both seats together is
acceptable.
For metal-seated valves, allowable leakage rates are as
specified in API 598. For soft-sealed valves, no leakage is
permitted during this test. The low-pressure Closure Test is
mandatory for gate, plug, floating ball, trunnion-mounted metal-
seated ball, and metal-seated butterfly valves, per API 598. It
may be used as an alternative to the high-pressure Closure
Test, described below, for check valves. The low-pressure
Closure Test is optional for globe, soft-seated butterfly, and soft-
seated trunnion mounted ball valves.
High-pressure
Closure Test
The high-pressure Closure Test is conducted after the Shell

Test with the same test fluid. The test pressure required
depends on the valve-type as follows:

Valve-Type Test Pressure
All, except butterfly and check. 110% of maximum allowable pressure at 38°C
(100°F).
Butterfly. 110% of design differential pressure at 38°C (100°F).
Steel and special alloy check. 110% of maximum allowable pressure at 38°C
(100°F).
Cast or ductile iron check. 1,034-4,413 kPa (150-640 psi), depending on material
and pressure class.
The high-pressure Closure Test is required for globe, check,

soft-seated trunnion mounted ball valves, lubricated plug valves,
and soft-seated butterfly valves per API 598. It is optional for
soft-seated plug, metal-seated trunnion mounted ball, and
metal-seated butterfly valves.
It should be noted that 04-SAMSS-048 requires both a high-
pressure and low-pressure Closure Test for all valves 350 mm
(14 in.) NPS and above.
Fire safe Test
The term fire safe has been used in this module to describe
several valve types and components. It has particular relevance
to soft seated, quarter-turn valves (i.e., ball, plug and butterfly).
Whenever such a valve is specified as a block valve in a
hazardous fluid service, it should be specified as being a type-
type.
A type valve is one that is designed with a secondary metal-to-
metal seat in addition to the primary soft seat. It must also
incorporate appropriate stem packing, cover gasket, and
external bolting materials that can resist the high temperatures
of a fire without major external leakage that could aggravate the
emergency situation. The design must be such that the valve's
primary seat can be destroyed by fire and remain operable, be
essentially free of external leakage, and have only a limited
amount of leakage past the seat with the valve closed.
API 607, Fire Test for Soft-Seated Quarter-Turn Valves, covers
the requirements for testing and evaluating such valves when

exposed to a fire. Its use is specified by SAES-L-008, Selection

of Valves. SAES-L008 also permits fire testing in accordance
with API RP 6F, Recommended Practice for Fire Test for
Valves, or BS 5146, Inspection and Testing for Steel Valves.
API 607 specifies the details of the fire test apparatus and
procedure (which involves enveloping the valve in a flame), test
pressures during and after the fire, and acceptable seat and
external leakage. When a valve design passes the specified
testing, it may be certified as fire tested per
API 607.
Other Inspection Considerations

When 04-SAMSS-003, Additional Requirements for Low-
Temperature Valves, is specified in the purchase order,
additional valve material impact testing or other requirements
may be necessary. 04-SAMSS-003 covers additional
requirements for steel valves in services with minimum design
temperatures between 0 and -45°C (32 and -50°F). If the valve
materials comply with material specifications noted in 04-
SAMSS-003, no additional impact testing is required. If the
materials do not comply with those specified, then impact
testing per ASME/ANSI B31.3 is required with acceptance
criteria as stated in 04-SAMSS-003. Several other
requirements with respect to nonmetallic materials, design
details and marking are also included.
The ASME/ANSI B16.34 ratings include a Special Class
category applicable to threaded and butt-welding end valves
only. The Special Class pressure/temperature ratings generally
exceed those in the Standard Class for each pressure class
rating, but supplementary nondestructive examination (NDE) of
valve bodies and bonnets is required to qualify valves for the
Special Class category. The supplementary NDE requirements
consists of a radiographic examination of critical areas, and
100% magnetic particle or liquid penetrant examination, for
each valve body and bonnet of any construction, (i.e., cast,
forged, fabricated, etc.). This supplementary inspection
confirms the valve body and bonnet to be a higher quality, and
thus permits using higher maximum allowable design pressures
than for the standard class.

SUMMARY
Valves are major components of a piping system and require
careful attention during the design process. Selecting a valve is
based upon the required valve function: to block flow, throttle
flow, or prevent flow reversal. There are numerous types of
valves. The valve most commonly used (approximately 75% of
the time) is the gate valve. SAES-L-008 provides special
service limitations and selection requirements for valves. The
04-SAMSS-series of specifications provides additional valve
design requirements. Once a valve is selected, its flange rating
class must be specified based on its design
pressure/temperature and the MAOP of the class. Finally, the
valve must be inspected and tested.

WORK AIDS
WORK AID 1: STEPS FOR SELECTING VALVES AND VALVE

COMPONENTS
The steps that follow provide a general procedure for selecting
valves and valve components.
Step 1. Identify necessary information.

Line # Design Temperature
Fluid Design Pressure
Piping
Code Valve Function
Special Material and Corrosion
Features Allowance
Size
Application
Step 2. Identify types and components based on application and function.
FUNCTION TYPES, NOTES

Block Wedge Gate (a, b, r)
Through-Conduit Gate (b, c, r)
Globe (d, r)
Ball, Soft-Seat (a, b, e, f, g, r)
Plug, Nonlubricated (a, b, e, r , s)
Plug, Lubricated (a, b, h, i, e, r)
Plug, Soft-Seat (a b, e, f, g, r)
Butterfly, Rubber-Lined (j, e, g, r)
Butterfly, Soft-Seat ((a, d, e, f, g, l, r)

Throttle Butterfly, Rubber-Lined (j, e, g, r)

Butterfly, Soft-Seat (e, r, g)
Butterfly, Metal-Seat (r)
Globe (r)
Prevent Swing Check (n, r)
Reverse Lift Check (o, r)
Flow Ball Check (p, r)
Dual-Plate Wafer Check (q, r)
Notes:
a. Consider for most block valve functions.
b. Block and bleed capability available.
c. Consider for block valve functions in pipeline services.
d. Consider for block valve function where some throttling also required.
e. Has quick on/off feature (1/4 turn).
f. Valve must be certified type for use in hazardous services.
g. Bubble-tight shutoff capability normally available.
h. Use only where a planned lubrication program is available.
i. Lubricant must be compatible with process fluid and may limit maximum
service temperature.
j. Consider only for water service.
k. Do not use flangeless valve as first block valve against storage tanks or
vessels containing hazardous materials.
l. Fire safe designs not available.
m. Consider for most situations where flow-reversal prevention is required.
n. Consider only in clean services, 50 mm (2 in.) and less in diameter.

o. Consider only where pressure drop is not a concern, 50 mm (2 in.) and

less in diameter.
p. Do not use in pulsating services, such as reciprocating pump or
compressor systems.
q. See SAES-L-008 for additional limitations.
r. Consider only for inherently safe services, or where tight shutoff is not
required.
Possible Type(s)
Step 3. Determine requirements.

Design or service limitations specified in SAES-L-008:
Step 4. Finalize selection.

Check which factors need consideration if two or more valves are suitable.
[ ] Standardization
[ ] Inventory
[ ] Experience
[ ] Cost
[ ] Delivery Time
[ ] Materials
[ ] Dimensions

Step 5. Provide a full description.

For example, a metal-seat gate valve.
Specify the following:
Type:
Material:
Flange Rating:
Major Components (specify if necessary):

End Connections (flanged, threaded,
socket-welded, butt-welded, wafer)
Trim (See SAES-L-008)
Body Pattern (i.e., venturi-, reduced-port, full-port)
Bonnet (i.e., bolted, screwed)
Stem (i.e., OS&Y, rising stem/inside screw)
Seat (i.e., metal, soft, see SAES-L-008)
Stem Packing System (See SAES-L-008)
Bonnet Gasket (See SAES-L-008, and
gasket specified for pipe flanges)
Applicable SAMSS's that needs to be attached to purchase order:
04-SAMSS-035 and 04-SAMSS-048 for all valves

04-SAMSS-003 for all valves with a minimum design
temperature between 0°C and -46°C (32°F and -50°F)
04-SAMSS’s applicable to specific valve-type, if available

WORK AID 2: Procedure for Determining Valve Class, MAOP, and

Appropriate Test Type
The procedure that follows is used to select the appropriate valve class and MAOP
based on ASME/ANSI B16.34.
1. Select generic valve material based on pipe material and SAES-L-008, and refer to
Table 1 of ASME/ANSI B31.34 (excerpt in Figure 17). Are any special pipe
material characteristics required for the service? For example, is a low-
temperature grade of carbon steel being used?
2. From the generic valve material, determine what product form the valve is in:
forgings, castings, plates, bars and shapes, tubular products. Typically, valves 50
mm (2 in.) in diameter or less are forgings. Larger valves are castings. Plates and
tubular products are used only for fabricated valves.
3. Select the Material Group Number that corresponds to the closest match between
the valve and pipe materials for the required valve product form. Material Group
1.1 will typically be appropriate for carbon steel valves that are used by Saudi
Aramco.
4. Refer to Table 2 of ASME/ANSI B31.34 for the Material Group Number selected
(excerpt in Figure 28).
- Valve Class is read across the top of the table.
- Valve design temperature is read down the left side of the table.
- The numbers in the table are the maximum allowable valve design pressures
(MAOP) for a particular combination of valve class and design temperature.
- Use linear interpolation for design temperatures located between the values
listed.
5. Ensure that the specified pipe design pressure is encompassed by the acceptable
pressure/temperature rating combinations of a given class. Proceed to
progressively higher class until the correct one is found for the design conditions.
6. Use Standard Class unless the valves are butt-welded ends and additional
inspection corresponding to Special Class requirements has been specified.

Valve Type Surface Dimen-sional Shell Test Back Seat Low High Pressure Firesafe
Exam. Checks Test Pressure Closure Test Test
Closure
Test
Gate X X X X X 4
Globe X X X X 4 X
Ball, Soft-Seal X X X 1,4 3,4 5
Plug, X X X X 4
Nonlubricated
Plug, X X X X X
Lubricated
Plug, Soft-Seat X X X X 4 5
Butterfly, X X X
Rubber-Lined
Butterfly, Soft- X X X 4 X 5
Seat
Butterfly, Metal- X X X 1
Seat
Globe X X X
Swing Check X X X 2 X,2
Lift Check X X X 2 X.2
Ball Check X X X 2 X.2
Dual-Plate X X X 2 X.2
Wafer Check
X = Mandatory tests.
Notes:
1. Mandatory for floating ball; trunnion mounted, metal-seated ball; and metal-seated butterfly valves.
2. Low-pressure Closure Test may be used as an alternate to high-pressure Closure Test.
3. Mandatory for soft-seated, trunnion mounted ball valve.
4. Both Low- and High-Pressure Closure Tests required for valves 350 mm (14 in.) NPS and above.
5. Required if fire safe valve specified.
Figure 17. Mandatory Tests for Valve Types

(Based on API 598 and 04-SAMSS-048)

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Engineering Encyclopedia

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

VALVE SELECTION: TYPES AND CLASSES

Chapter : Mechanical For additional information on this subject, contact

Valve Selection: Types and Classes

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards i

Valve Selection: Types and Classes

Step 1: List the Data Required........................................................................... 31

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards ii

Valve Selection: Types and Classes

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards iii

Valve Selection: Types and Classes

Figure 1. Full-Port Gate Valve......................................................................................... 8

Table 1. Information on Valve Sizes, Ratings and Standards ...................................... 43

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards iv

Valve Selection: Types and Classes

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 5

Valve Selection: Types and Classes

DESCRIBING VALVES IN TERMS OF THEIR FUNCTIONS, TYPES, AND

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 6

Valve Selection: Types and Classes

The engineer must know the various types of valves because

The off/on flow control of a gate valve is achieved by moving a

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 7

Valve Selection: Types and Classes

Figure 1. Full-Port Gate Valve

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 8

Valve Selection: Types and Classes

Major Gate Valve Components

Most standard gate valves are available in either cast or forged

Venturi- or Reduced-Port – In the venturi- or reduced-port

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 9

Valve Selection: Types and Classes

There are several different gate designs. The solid- and

Solid-Wedge Gate – The solid-wedge gate, shown in Figure 2,

Figure 2. Solid-Wedge Gate

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 10

Valve Selection: Types and Classes

Flexible-Wedge Gate – The flexible-wedge gate shown in

Figure 3. Flexible-Wedge Gate

The valve bonnet is a pressure-retaining component that

Bolted Bonnet – A typical bolted bonnet is shown in Figure 4.

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 11

Valve Selection: Types and Classes

Therefore, the bonnet should be treated in the same manner as

Figure 4. Bolted Bonnet

Screwed Bonnet – The screwed-in bonnet, as shown in Figure

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 12

Valve Selection: Types and Classes

Figure 5. Screwed Bonnet

API 600, Steel Gate Valves, Flanged and Butt-welding Ends,

The stem raises and lowers the gate. It is designed to

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 13

Valve Selection: Types and Classes

Rising Stem with Outside Screw – As shown in Figure 6, the

Figure 6. Rising Stem with Outside Screw (OS&Y)

Rising Stem With Inside Screw – The rising stem/inside screw,

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 14

Valve Selection: Types and Classes

Figure 7. Rising Stem with Inside Screw

Stem Packing System

A stem packing system provides a seal between the stem and

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 15