ANSI/AWWA C517-16

(Revi si on of AN SI /AW WA C51 7- 09)

®
AWWA Standard

Resilient-Seated Cast-Iron
Eccentric Plug Valves

Efecti ve date: Oct. 1 , 201 6.

First edition approved by AWWA Board o f Directors J une 1 2, 2005.
This edition approved Jan. 1 6, 201 6.
Approved by American N ational Standards Institute M arch 9, 201 6.

SM

Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

AWWA Standard
This document is an American Water Works Association (AWWA) standard. It is not a speci f cation. AWWA standards
describe minimum requirements and do not contain all o f the engineering and administrative in formation normally
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standard. Until each optional feature is speci f ed by the user, the product or service is not fully de f ned. AWWA pub -

lication o f a standard does not constitute endorsement o f any product or product type, nor does AWWA test, certi fy,
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precedence over or displace any applicable law, regulation, or code o f any governmental authority. AWWA standards
are intended to represent a consensus o f the water industry that the product described will provide satis factory ser -

vice. When AWWA revises or withdraws this standard, an o f cial notice o f action will be placed on the f rst page o f the
O f cial Notice section o f Journal – American Water Works Association . The action becomes efective on the f rst day o f
the month following the month o f Journal – American Water Works Association publication o f the o f cial notice.

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ISBN-1 3, print: 978-1 -62576-1 83-5 eISBN-1 3, electronic: 978-1 -61 300-392-3
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/1 0.1 2999/AWWA.C51 7.1 6

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Copyright © 201 6 by American Water Works Association

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Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.
 Committee Personnel
Te AWWA Standards Committee on Eccentric Plug Valves, which reviewed and approved this
standard, had the following personnel at the time of approval:
Fred L. Hinker, Chair
General Interest Members
A. Ali, ADA Consulting Ltd, Surry, B.C., Canada (AWWA)
B.E. Bosserman, Mission Viejo, Calif. (AWWA)
F.L. Hinker, Santa Rosa, N.M. (AWWA)
M.B. Horsley, Horsley Engineering LLC, Overland Park, Kan. (AWWA)
T.J. McCandless,* Standards Engineer Liaison, AWWA, Denver, Colo. (AWWA)
W.H. Pefey, Crawford, Murphy & Tilly, Springfeld, Ill. (AWWA)
Producer Members
A. Abouelleil, Henry Pratt Company, Aurora, Ill. (AWWA)
D.W. Angell,* Standards Council Liaison, AMERICAN Flow Control,
Birmingham, Ala. (AWWA)
J.V. Ballun, Val-Matic Valve & Manufacturing Corporation, Elmhurst, Ill. (AWWA)
M.A. Bell, Victaulic, Bainbridge Island, Wash. (AWWA)
D.E. Burczynski, Kennedy Valve, Elmira, N.Y. (AWWA)
T.C . Harbour,† Clow Valve Company, Oskaloosa, Iowa (AWWA)
J.R. Holstrom,† Val-Matic Valve & Manufacturing Corporation, Addison, Ill. (AWWA)
A.W. Libke, DeZURIK, Sartell, Minn. (AWWA)
User Members
S. Carpenter, San Diego County Water, Escondido, Calif. (AWWA)
S. Hattan, Tarrant Regional Water District, Fort Worth, Texas (AWWA)
R. Kilborn, Town of Gilbert NWTP, Gilbert, Ariz. (AWWA)
M. MacConnell, Metro Vancouver, Burnaby, B.C., Canada (AWWA)
P.J. Ries, Denver Water, Denver, Colo. (AWWA)

* Liaison, nonvoting
† Alternate
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 Contents
All AWWA standards follow the general format indicated subsequently. Some variations from this
format may be found in a particular standard.

SEC. PAGE SEC. PAGE

Foreword 4.3 Materials ........................................... 5

I Introduction .................................... vii 4.4 Design............................................... 6
I.A Background..................................... vii 4.5 Workmanship and Coating ............. 11
I.B History............................................ vii 5 Verifcation
I.C Acceptance ...................................... vii 5.1 Inspection ....................................... 11
II Special Issues. ................................. viii 5.2 Testing ............................................ 11
II.A General .......................................... viii 5.3 Basis for Rejection ........................... 13
II.B Advisory Information on Product
Application................................. ix 6 Delivery
III Use of Tis Standard ......................... x 6.1 Marking .......................................... 13
III.A Purchaser Options and 6.2 Shipping.......................................... 14
Alternatives ................................. x 6.3 Afdavit of Compliance .................. 14
III.B Modifcation to Standard ................ xii
IV Major Revisions............................... xii Appendix
V Comments ..................................... xiii A Installation, Operation, and
Maintenance of
Standard Resilient-Seated
Cast-Iron Eccentric
1 General
1.1 Scope ................................................ 1 A.1 Plug Valves
General ........................................... 15
1.2 Purpose ............................................. 2 A.2 Unloading ....................................... 15
1.3 Application........................................ 2 A.3 Storage ............................................ 15
2 References ........................................ 2 A.4 Inspection Prior to Installation ........ 16
3 Def nitions ....................................... 3 A.5 Installation ...................................... 16
A.6 Testing ............................................ 18
4.1 Permeation ........................................ 4 A.7 Records ........................................... 19
4 Requirements

4.2 Data to Be Provided by the A.8 Operation........................................ 19

Manufacturer or Supplier ............ 5 A.9 Maintenance ................................... 19

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SEC. PAGE SEC. PAGE

Figure 2 Prototype Actuator Test Cycles

A.1 Recommended Installation Position Required ................................... 10
for Suspended Solids Service ..... 17 3 Minimum Duration of Shell and
Seat Tests .................................. 12
Tables 4 Valve Test Cycles Required .............. 13
1 End-to-End Dimensions for
Flanged-End Valves ..................... 7

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Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.
 Foreword
Tis foreword is for information only and is not a part ofANSI*/AWWA C517.

I. Introduction.
I.A. Background. Resilient-seated cast-iron eccentric plug valves were introduced
in the 1930s as tight-sealing and wear-resistant valves for handling fluids with solids
content. Te use of such valves has since grown for potable and wastewater applications.
I.B. History. Resilient-seated cast-iron eccentric plug valves were first
standardized by the Manufacturers Standardization Society (MSS) in 1991, in standard
practice SP-108. Te need for standardization of resilient-seated cast-iron eccentric plug
valves by the American Water Works Association (AWWA) was recognized in 1995. In
1998, the AWWA Standards Council authorized the Eccentric Plug Valve Committee
to develop a new standard. Te first edition of C517 was approved by the AWWA
Board of Directors on June 12, 2005. Te last edition was approved on June 14, 2009.
Tis edition was approved by the AWWA Board of Directors on Jan. 16, 2016.
I.C. Acceptance. In May 1985, the US Environmental Protection Agency
(USEPA) entered into a cooperative agreement with a consortium led by NSF
International (NSF) to develop voluntary third-party consensus standards and a
certifcation program for direct and indirect drinking water additives. Other members of
the original consortium included the Water Research Foundation (formerly AwwaRF)
and the Conference of State Health and Environmental Managers (COSHEM). Te
American Water Works Association (AWWA) and the Association of State Drinking
Water Administrators (ASDWA) joined later.
In the United States, authority to regulate products for use in, or in contact with,
drinking water rests with individual states.† Local agencies may choose to impose
requirements more stringent than those required by the state. To evaluate the health
efects of products and drinking water additives from such products, state and local
agencies may use various references, including
1. Specifc policies of the state or local agency.
2. Two standards developed under the direction of NSF‡: NSF/ANSI 60,
Drinking Water Treatment Chemicals—Health Efects; and NSF/ANSI 61, Drinking
Water System Components—Health Efects.
* American National Standards Institute, 25 West 43rd Street, Fourth Floor, New York, NY 10036.
† Persons outside the United States should contact the appropriate authority having jurisdiction.
‡ NSF International, 789 North Dixboro Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105.
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 3. Other references, including AWWA standards, Food Chemicals Codex,
Water Chemicals Codex,* and other standards considered appropriate by the state or
local agency.
Various certifcation organizations may be involved in certifying products in accor-
dance with NSF/ANSI 61. Individual states or local agencies have authority to accept
or accredit certifcation organizations within their jurisdictions. Accreditation of certi-
fcation organizations may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.
Annex A, “Toxicology Review and Evaluation Procedures,” to NSF/ANSI 61 does
not stipulate a maximum allowable level (MAL) of a contaminant for substances not
regulated by a USEPA fnal maximum contaminant level (MCL). Te MALs of an
unspecifed list of “unregulated contaminants” are based on toxicity testing guidelines
(noncarcinogens) and risk characterization methodology (carcinogens). Use of Annex A
procedures may not always be identical, depending on the certifer.
ANSI/AWWA C517 does not address additives requirements. Users of this stan-
dard should consult the appropriate state or local agency having jurisdiction in order to
1. Determine additives requirements, including applicable standards.
2. Determine the status of certifcations by parties ofering to certify products
for contact with, or treatment of, drinking water.
3. Determine current information on product certifcation.
In an alternative approach to inadvertent drinking water additives, some jurisdic-
tions (including California, Maryland, Vermont, and Louisiana at the time of this
writing) are calling for reduced lead limits for materials in contact with potable water.
Various third-party certifers have been assessing products against these lead content
criteria, and a new ANSI-approved national standard, NSF/ANSI 372, Drinking Water
System Components—Lead Content, was published in 2010. On Jan. 4, 2011, legisla-
tion was signed revising the defnition for “lead free” within the Safe Drinking Water
Act (SDWA) as it pertains to “pipe, pipe fttings, plumbing fttings, and fxtures.”
Te changes went into efect on Jan. 4, 2014. In brief, the new provisions to the Safe
Drinking Water Act (SDWA) require that these products meet a weighted average lead
content of not more than 0.25 percent.
II. Special Issues.
II.A. General. Conditions under which a valve is to be operated must be
evaluated carefully by the purchaser. Torque requirements for valve operation vary

* Both publications available from National Academy of Sciences, 500 Fifth Street, NW, Washington,
DC 20001.
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considerably with diferential pressure across the valve, fluid velocity, fluid temperature,
and upstream piping conditions.
Flow and pressure direction are important in the installation and use of an eccen-
tric plug valve. Valve performance and sealing characteristics vary with direction of
pressure on the plug (closure member).
II.B. Advisory Information on Product Application. Tis standard does not
cover all possible applications or manufacturing technologies. Te purchaser should
identify special requirements and required deviations from this standard and include
appropriate language in purchase documents (refer to Sec. III.A) in this foreword.
Other advisory information is provided below.
1. Te maximum anticipated flow velocity through the valve, maximum non-
shock shutof pressure, and water temperature range are used by manufacturers to cal-
culate torque requirements, which then may determine valve operating-component de-
sign and actuator sizing. Tis information should be provided under items 6, 7, and 9
of Sec. III.A in this foreword.
Note: If this information is not provided by the purchaser, valve actuators may be
sized to actuate the valve at a shutof pressure diferential equal to the design working
pressure of the valve and a maximum flow velocity of 8 ft/sec (2.4 m/sec). Tis may
result in an oversized valve actuator and a significant unwarranted expense for the
purchaser.
2. Tis standard limits handwheel rim pull but not handwheel diameter. A
smaller handwheel may require a more expensive actuator requiring more turns. If a
large-diameter handwheel is of concern, because of clearance or other limitations, the
diameter should be limited to an acceptable dimension under item 12.a of Sec. III.A
in this foreword.
3. Tis standard does not require a minimum waterway area nor does it limit
head loss across the valve. If these are of concern, limitations should be provided.
4. Tis standard allows a party other than the valve manufacturer to mount
an actuator to a valve. Te purchaser is cautioned that the valve manufacturer cannot
assume responsibility for the valve’s sealing and operating performance if the actuator is
mounted or adjusted by a party other than the valve manufacturer. If this is a concern,
requirements on actuator mounting should be included in the purchase documents.
5. Electric actuators meeting ANSI/AWWA C542, Electric Motor Actuators for
Valves and Slide Gates, can be supplied with or without an intermediate quarter-turn
mechanism. If desired, the purchaser should specify a multiturn actuator coupled to an
intermediate mechanism meeting ANSI/AWWA C542.
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 6. Tis standard does not require rubber parts to be specifically tested or to be
specifically suitable for service with line content containing chlorine or chloramines.
Standardized tests measuring resistance to chlorine- or chloramine-bearing waters
were not available at the date of introduction of this standard.
If these or other chemical constituents are of concern, special requirements may be
included in the purchase documents. Refer to item 27 of Sec. III.A in the foreword.
7. Valves produced in accordance with this standard are also commonly used
for wastewater applications with high solids content. For water containing suspended
solids or fuids other than water, the manufacturer should be consulted about the appli-
cability of the valve and the materials of construction.
8. Chlorine and chloramine degradation of elastomers: Te selection of materi-
als is critical for water service and distribution piping in locations where there is a pos-
sibility that elastomers will be in contact with chlorine or chloramines. Documented
research has shown that elastomers such as gaskets, seals, valve seats, and encapsu-
lations may be degraded when exposed to chlorine or chloramines. Te impact of
degradation is a function of the type of elastomeric material, chemical concentration,
contact surface area, elastomer cross section, and environmental conditions as well as
temperature. Careful selection of and specifcations for elastomeric materials and the
specifcs of their application for each water system component should be considered to
provide long-term usefulness and minimum degradation (swelling, loss of elasticity, or
softening) of the elastomer specifed.
III. Use of Tis Standard. It is the responsibility of the user of an AWWA
standard to determine that the products described in that standard are suitable for use
in the particular application being considered.
III.A. Purchaser Options and Alternatives. Te following information should be
provided by the purchaser.
1. Standard used—that is, ANSI/AWWA C517, Resilient-Seated Cast-Iron
Eccentric Plug Valves, of latest revision.
2. Quantity required.
3. Description of connecting piping: material, pipe outside diameter, and
f anged, grooved, or plain end.
4. Type of installation: buried or aboveground.
5. For low-pressure applications, <25 psig, the purchaser should request a low-
pressure 5-psig seat test to ensure the valve will not leak. For pressures below 5 psig,
the purchaser should contact the manufacturer.

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 6. Maximum nonshock shutof pressure and maximum nonshock line pressure
(Sec. II.B.1).
7. Maximum flow velocity through the valve when the plug is in the full-open
position. For applications requiring a fluid velocity greater than 8 ft/sec (2.4 m/sec)
when the valve is in the full-open position, consult the manufacturer (Sec. II.B.1 and
Sec. 1.1 .2).
8. Size of valve (Sec. 1.1).
9. Fluid temperature range (Sec. 1.1).
10. If valve will be placed in contaminated soil (Sec. 4.1).
11. If certifed drawings are to be furnished by the manufacturer (Sec. 4.2).
12. Materials (Sec. 4.3).
a. If one or more of the materials included in this standard are unacceptable
for an application, specify the acceptable materials that are included in this standard.
b. If materials included in the standard are not suitable for exposure to line
content or are otherwise unacceptable for an application, it is recommended that the
purchaser specify materials that are suitable and acceptable for the application after
ensuring the alternate material availability from the manufacturer.
13. Details of other federal, state or provincial, and local requirements (Sec. 4.3.1).
14. Whether compliance with NSF/ANSI 61, Drinking Water System
Components—Health Efects, and NSF/ANSI 372, Drinking Water System
Components—Lead Content (Sec. 4.3.1 .1), is required or an alternative lead content
criterion.
15. Considerations relating to anticipated problems with rubber components
exposed to line content containing chlorine, chloramines, or other chemicals. If such
problems are anticipated, the purchaser should identify the maximum expected con-
centrations of these chemicals and other factors, such as pH and temperature ranges,
that may afect the corrosivity of these chemicals. Te purchaser should consult with
the manufacturers and, if appropriate, specify special requirements for these compo-
nents (Sec. 4.3.3.3).
16. Service conditions for resilient-seating materials (Sec. 4.3.3.3).
17. If delivery of test results is required (Sec. 4.3.4).
18. Detailed description of nonstandard end connections (Sec. 4.4.1 .1).
19. Tis standard requires ASME B16.1 fat-faced, class 125 cast-iron fanges
(Sec. 4.4.1 .1). If other facings are desired, they must be specifed by the purchaser.
20. Type of ends: fanged, grooved (fexible or rigid), or mechanical-joint ends
(Sec. 4.4.1 .1 , 4.4.1 .2, and 4.4.1 .3).
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 21. Type of stem seal (Sec. 4.4.7).
22. Actuator type and service conditions (Sec. 4.4.9).
a. Actuator type: manual, electric, or other.
b. Service condition: open/close or modulating.
23. Manual actuator (Sec. 4.4.9.5).
a. Type: handwheel, chainwheel, or wrench nut.
b. Direction to turn operating shaft to open valves. (Unless otherwise spec-
ifed, counterclockwise direction to open the valve will be furnished.)
c. Position indicator, if required.
24. Other actuators: actuators other than those covered by this standard shall be
specifed by the purchaser in detail (Sec. 4.4.9).
25. If valve-torque data are to be furnished (Sec. 4.4.9.1).
26. If the furnishing of test records or reports is required that are specified under
Sec. 4.4.9.5.6, 4.4.9.5.7, 5.2.1 , and 5.2.2 of this standard. Test records required for
power actuators under ANSI/AWWA C541 or C542 may also be requested. Te pur-
chaser may require all records or may stipulate a breakdown of production test records
and/or proof-of-design test records in the purchase order.
27. Protective coatings and severe conditions if other than those specified in Sec.
4.5.2.2 and 4.5.2.3 in this standard. Additionally, any requirements for coating interior
ferrous surfaces shall be specified in detail.
28. If shop inspection by the purchaser is required (Sec. 5.1 .1).
29. Minimum durations of shell and seat tests, if durations diferent from those
shown in Table 3 of the standard are desired (Sec. 5.2.1 .2).
30. If a bidirectional leakage test is required, and if so, specify the reverse test
pressure(s) required. Similarly, specify if a low-pressure test is required for seat leakage
(Sec. 5.2.1 .4).
31. Basis of rejection, repairs, replacement, and retesting requirements (Sec. 5.3).
32. If an afdavit of compliance is to be furnished (Sec. 6.3).
33. Valve and actuator arrangement and position (Figure A.1).
III.B. Modifcation to Standard. Any modifcation of the provisions, defnitions,
or terminology in this standard must be provided by the purchaser.
IV. Major Revisions. Major changes made to the standard in this revision
include the following:
1. Added notice of chlorine and chloramine degradation of elastomers.
2. Options should be called out in the contract documents.

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 3. Expanded scope to include de f nition of classi fcation and fow-rate
capabilities.
4. Lead limit information was added.
V. Comments. If you have any comments or questions about this standard,
please call AWWA Engineering and Technical Services at 303.794.7711, FAX at
303.795.7603; write to the department at 6666 West Quincy Avenue, Denver, CO
80235 -3098; or email at standards@awwa.org.

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 ANSI/AWWA C517-16
(Revi si on of AN SI /AW WA C51 7- 09)

® AWWA Standard

Resilient-Seated Cast-Iron
Eccentric Plug Valves

SEC TI ON 1 : G EN ER AL

Sec. 1.1 Scope

Tis standard describes resilient-seated cast-iron eccentric plug valves, 3  in. (75
mm) through 72 in. (1,800 mm) in diameter, with flanged, grooved, or mechan-
ical-joint ends, for water, wastewater, and reclaimed water systems having a pH
range from 6 to 12 and a temperature range from 33°F to 125°F (0.6°C to 52°C).
Te minimum design pressure shall be 175 psig (1,208 kPa) for 3-in. through
12-in. (75-mm through 300-mm) sizes and 150 psig (1,034 kPa) for 14-in. through
72-in. (350-mm through 1,800-mm) sizes and a maximum full-open fuid velocity
of 8 ft/sec (2.4 m/sec) based on nominal valve size.
1.1 .1 Defnition of classifcation. In each case, the numeric designation
represents the pressure rating (the maximum steady-state fuid working pressure,
in pounds-per-square-inch gauge) and also the maximum steady-state diferential
pressure, in pounds per square inch, for which the valve is designed.
1.1 .2 “A” designation. Te designation “A” defnes the fow-rate capabili-
ties with the valve in the fully open position. Valves designated “A” are rated for
a maximum velocity of 8 ft/sec (2.4 m/sec) in the piping section upstream of the
valve.

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2  AWWA C51 7-1 6

Sec. 1.2 Purpose

Te purpose ofthis standard is to provide minimum requirements for resilient-
seated cast-iron eccentric plug valves, suitable for water, wastewater, and reclaimed
water service, including materials, application, inspection, handling, and shipping.
Sec. 1.3 Application
Tis standard can be referenced in purchase documents for resilient-seated
cast-iron plug valves. Te stipulations of this standard apply when this document
has been referenced and then only to resilient-seated cast-iron eccentric plug
valves.
SECTION 2: REFERENCES
Tis standard references the following documents. In their latest editions,
they form a part of this standard to the extent specifed within the standard. In any
case of confict, the requirements of this standard shall prevail.
ANSI*/AWWA C111-12—Rubber-Gasket Joints for Ductile-Iron Pressure
Pipe and Fittings.
ANSI/AWWA C153-11—Ductile-Iron Compact Fittings.
ANSI/AWWA C541-16—Hydraulic and Pneumatic Cylinder and Vane-Type
Actuators for Valves and Slide Gates.
ANSI/AWWA C542-16—Electric Motor Actuators for Valves and Slide
Gates.
ANSI/AWWA C550-13—Protective Interior Coatings for Valves and
Hydrants.
ANSI/AWWA C606-15—Grooved and Shouldered Joints.
ASME† B1.1 —Unifed Inch Screw Treads (UN and UNR Tread Forms).
ASME B16.1 —Gray Iron Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings: Classes 25, 125,
and 250.
ASTM‡ A48/A48M-03—Standard Specifcation for Gray Iron Castings.
AS TM A126-04—Standard Specifcation for Gray Iron Castings for Valves,
Flanges, and Pipe Fittings.

* American National Standards Institute, 25 West 43rd Street, Fourth Floor, New York, NY 10036.
† ASME International, 3 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016.
‡ AS TM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428.
Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.
 RESI LIEN T-SEATED CAST-IRON ECCEN TRI C PLUG VALVES  3

AS TM A240/A240M-16—Standard Specifcation for Chromium and

Chromium-Nickel Stainless Steel Plate, Sheet, and Strip for Pressure Vessels and
for General Applications.
AS TM A395/A395M-99—Standard Specifcation for Ferritic Ductile Iron
Pressure-Retaining Castings for Use at Elevated Temperatures.
AS TM A536-84—Standard Specifcation for Ductile Iron Castings.
AS TM D429-14—Standard Test Methods for Rubber Property—Adhesion
to Rigid Substrates.
AS TM D1149-16—Standard Test Methods for Rubber Deterioration—
Cracking in an Ozone Controlled Environment.
NSF/ANSI 61—Drinking Water System Components—Health Efects.
NSF/ANSI 372—Drinking Water System Components—Lead Content.
SECTION 3: DEFINITIONS
Te following defnitions shall apply in this standard:
1. Actuator: A device attached to the valve for the purpose of rotating the
valve plug to an open, a closed, or an intermediate position and maintaining the
plug in any position.
2. Body: Te primary pressure-retaining structure of the valve that forms
a portion of the pipeline and that has ends adapted for connection to the piping.
3. Bonnet/cover: A primary pressure-retaining structure of the valve that
closes the top portion of the valve body.
4. Design pressure: Te internal hydrostatic pressure for which the valve
body is designed without regard to plug position or actuator capacity.
5. Direct pressure: Pressure on the plug from opposite the body seat end
of the valve.
6. Dynamic torque: Te input torque required to operate the valve between
the fully open and fully closed positions. Tis torque is the cumulative efect of bear-
ing friction, packing friction, and resultant forces on the closure member created by
fluid pressure and by fluid flow through the valve.
7. Eccentric: Te plug journal is ofset from the centerline of the seat. Shut-
of is accomplished by rotating the eccentrically mounted plug into the body seat.
8. Electric actuator: An electromechanical actuator that employs the power
of an electric motor to provide dynamic torque through a gear-reduction unit.
9. Line pressure: Te maximum operating pressure in a pipeline.
Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.
4  AWWA C51 7-1 6

10. Manufacturer: Te party that manufactures, fabricates, or produces

materials or products.
11. Modulating service: Control applications requiring the valve to be used
with the closure member positioned at intermediate locations or angular positions
between the fully open and fully closed positions.
12. Plug: Te closure member that is positioned in the flow stream to
permit flow or to obstruct flow (depending on closure position) and which rotates
through an angle of 90 degrees from full open to full shutof.
13. Potable water: Water that is safe and satisfactory for drinking and
cooking.
14. Purchaser: Te person, company, or organization that purchases any
materials or work to be performed.
15. Reclaimed water: Wastewater that becomes suitable for beneficial use
as a result of treatment.
16. Resilient seat: An elastomeric surface whereby shutof of flow is accom-
plished by compression against a corrosion-resistant surface.
17. Reverse pressure: Pressure on the plug from the body seat end of the
valve.
18. Shutofpressure: Maximum diferential pressure across the plug when
the valve is closed.
19. Supplier: Te party that supplies material or services. A supplier may
or may not be the manufacturer.
20. Trust bearing: A mechanism or device that supports the axial forces
of the plug and that maintains plug alignment with the valve seat.
21. Wastewater: A combination of the liquid and water-carried waste from
residences, commercial buildings, industrial plants, and institutions, together with
any groundwater, surface water, and stormwater that may be present.
SECTION 4: REQUIREMENTS

Sec. 4.1 Permeation

Te selection of materials is critical for potable water, wastewater, and
reclaimed water service and distribution piping in locations where there is likeli-
hood the pipe will be exposed to signifcant concentrations of pollutants composed
of low-molecular-weight petroleum products or organic solvents or their vapors.

Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

 RESI LIEN T-SEATED CAST-IRON ECCEN TRI C PLUG VALVES  5

Documented research has shown that pipe materials (such as polyethylene and
polyvinyl chloride) and elastomers, such as those used in jointing gaskets and pack-
ing glands, are subject to permeation by low-molecular-weight organic solvents or
petroleum products. If a potable water, wastewater, or reclaimed water pipe must
pass through such a contaminated area or an area subject to contamination, con-
sult with the manufacturer regarding permeation of pipe walls, jointing material,
and so on before selecting materials for use in that area.
Sec. 4.2 Data to Be Provided by the Manufacturer or Supplier
Te manufacturer or supplier shall submit, when required in the purchase
documents, certified drawings showing the principal dimensions, construction,
and materials used for parts of the valve and actuator. Work shall be performed
and valves shall be provided in accordance with the certified drawings.
Sec. 4.3 Materials
4.3.1 Materials. Materials shall comply with the requirements of the
Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) and other federal regulations for potable water,
wastewater, and reclaimed water systems as applicable.
4.3.1 .1 NSF/ANSI 61 and NSF/ANSI 372. Materials shall be in compli-
ance with NSF/ANSI 61 and NSF/ANSI 372 when required in the purchase docu-
ments.
4.3.2 General. Materials designated hereinafter, when used in valves pro-
duced under this standard, shall conform to the requirements designated in ANSI/
AWWA C541, C542, and C550 for materials requirements related to power actua-
tors and epoxy interior coatings.
4.3.3 Physical and chemical properties. Materials shall be in conformance
with the physical and chemical requirements of this subsection.
4.3.3.1 Gray iron. AS TM A126, class B, or AS TM A48, class 40.
4.3.3.2 Ductile iron. AS TM A536 or AS TM A395.
4.3.3.3 Resilient seat. Te resilient-seating materials shall be selected
based on service conditions defined by the purchase documents.
4.3.3.3.1 Resilient seats shall be resistant to microbiological attack, copper
poisoning, chlorine and chloramine degradation, and ozone attack.
4.3.3.3.1 .1 Resilient-seat compounds shall contain no more than 8 ppm of
copper ion and shall include copper inhibitors to prevent copper degradation of the
rubber material.

Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

6  AWWA C51 7-1 6

4.3.3.3.1 .2 Resilient-seat compounds shall be capable of withstanding an

ozone resistance test when tested in accordance with AS TM D1149. Te tests shall
be conducted on unstressed samples for 70 hours at 104°F (40°C) with an ozone
concentration of 500 ppb without visible cracking in the surfaces of the test
4.3.3.4 Body seat. Body seat materials shall be nickel alloys utilizing a
weld material that meets AS TM A240 with a minimum nickel content of 95 per-
cent, type 316 stainless steel, or of a material with equal or better wear and corro-
sion resistance in water, wastewater, and reclaimed water applications.
4.3.3.5 Gaskets. Gasket material shall be made of inorganic mineral
fiber, rubber or elastomer composition, or paper that is free from corrosive ingredi-
ents and asbestos. O-rings or other suitable elastomeric seals may be used.
4.3.3.6 Shaft bearings and thrust bearings. Materials shall be stainless
steel, oil-impregnated bronze, fluoropolymer, or nylon 11.
4.3.4 Tests. Whenever valve components are to be made in conformance
with ASTM or other standards that include test requirements or testing procedures,
such requirements or procedures shall be met by the valve manufacturer. Te records
of such tests shall be delivered when required in the purchase documents.
Sec. 4.4 Design
4.4.1 Valve bodies and bonnets.
4.4.1.1 Flanged-end bodies. Flanges shall be drilled and faced in accor-
dance with ASME B16.1 class 125 cast-iron flanges. Flange bolt holes that are
threaded shall be tapped in accordance with ANSI B1.1 coarse-thread series class 2B.
Face-to-face dimensions for flanged-end valves shall be in accordance with Table 1.
4.4.1 .2 Grooved-end bodies. Grooved-end bodies shall be manufactured
to the dimensions of ANSI/AWWA C606.
4.4.1 .3 Mechanical-joint–end bodies Mechanical-joint ends shall be
manufactured to the dimensions of ANSI/AWWA C111/A21.11, or for bod-
ies made from ductile iron, mechanical-joint ends shall be manufactured to the
dimensions of ANSI/AWWA C153/A21.53.
4.4.1 .4 Wall thickness. Body and bonnet/cover wall thickness shall be
designed with a minimum safety factor of 3 based on ultimate tensile strength.
4.4.1 .5 Materials. Te body and bonnet/cover shall be made from gray
iron or ductile iron.
4.4.1 .6 Bonnet. Te valve bonnet/cover shall be removable for inspecting
the plug and seat while the valve is installed in the pipeline.

Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

 RESI LIEN T-SEATED CAST-IRON ECCEN TRI C PLUG VALVES  7

Table 1 End-to-end dimensions for flanged-end valves

End-to-End Dimension*
Nominal Valve Size Short Body Long Body
in. (mm) in. (mm) in. (mm)

3 (75) 8 (203) — —
4 (100) 9 (229) — —
6 (150) 10½ (267) — —
8 (200) 11½ (292) — —
10 (250) 13 (330) — —
12 (300) 14 (356) — —
14 (350) 17 (432) — —
16 (400) 17¾ (451) 24 (610)
18 (450) 21½ (546) 30 (762)
20 (500) 23½ (597) 36 (914)
24 (600) 30 (762) 42 (1,067)
30 (750) 37½ (952) 51 (1,295)
36 (900) 52 (1,321) 60 (1,524)
42 (1,050) 62 (1,575) 72 (1,829)
48 (1,200) — — 84 (2,1 34)
54 (1,350) — — 96 (2,438)
60 (1,500) 96 (2,438) 105 (2,667)
66 (1,650) 96 (2,438) 115 (2,921)
72 (1,800) 96 (2,438) 125 (3,175)
*Tolerance for valves 10 in. (250 mm) and smaller is ± ⅛ in. (3.2 mm). Tolerance for valves 12 in. (300 mm) and
larger is ± 3/16 in. (4.8 mm).
4.4.2 Body seats. Te body-seating surface shall be aligned eccentrically
from the centerline of the plug shaft.
4.4.3 Valve plugs.
4.4.3.1 Materials. Te plug shall be made from gray iron or ductile iron.
Te seating surface shall be aligned eccentrically from the centerline of the plug
shaft.
4.4.3.2 Wall thickness. Plug wall thickness shall be designed with a min-
imum safety factor of 3 based on ultimate tensile strength.
4.4.3.3 Operation. Valve plug ofset shall be designed for a standard
counterclockwise direction of opening.

Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

8  AWWA C51 7-1 6

4.4.4 Shafts.
4.4.4.1 Integral shaft. Valve shafts may be an integral part of the valve
plug and shall be designed with a minimum safety factor of 3 based on the ulti-
mate tensile strength of the shaft material.
4.4.4.2 Stub shaft. If stub shafts are used, each stub shaft shall be inserted
into the valve plug hub a minimum of 1½ shaft diameters.
4.4.5 Resilient seat.
4.4.5.1 Proof of design. For bonded or vulcanized resilient seats, the
proof-of-design test method used for bonding or vulcanizing shall be as in accor-
dance with AS TM D429, method A or B. For method A, the minimum strength
shall not be less than 250 psi (1,725 kPa). For method B, the peel strength shall not
be less than 25 lb/in. (13.2 N/mm).
4.4.5.2 Mechanical attaching devices. Exposed mechanical attaching
devices and hardware used to retain the resilient seat shall be of a material with a
corrosion resistance equal to or better than AS TM A240 Type 316 stainless steel
in water applications.
4.4.6 Shaft bearings.
4.4.6.1 Bearings. Shaft bearings are to be permanently self-lubricated, hav-
ing surfaces that resist galling and corrosion based on the specified service conditions.
4.4.6.2 Compressive stress. Te compressive stress shall not exceed one-
f fth of the ultimate compressive strength of the bearing material.
4.4.6.3 Bearing location. Valves shall contain upper and lower shaft
bearings.
4.4.7 Stem seals.
4.4.7.1 Inspection. Te seals shall be accessible for visible inspection,
adjustment, or replacement without disassembly of the valve or removal of the
valve from the piping.
4.4.7.2 Seal-retaining components. Seal-retaining components made of
carbon steel, i.e., snap rings, fasteners, and so on, shall be plated or coated with
zinc, epoxy, or other corrosion-resistant materials.
4.4.8 Trust bearings. Each valve shall be equipped with a thrust-bearing
device or mechanism, which shall maintain proper plug alignment with the valve
seat.
4.4.9 Valve actuators.
4.4.9.1 Torque capability. Te rated torque capability of each actuator
shall be sufcient to seat, unseat, and rigidly hold the plug in any intermediate or
Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.
 RESI LIEN T-SEATED CAST-IRON ECCEN TRI C PLUG VALVES  9

end position, at the operating conditions defined in the purchase documents. If

this information is not provided, valve actuators shall be sized to actuate the valve
in direct pressure direction and at a shutof pressure diferential equal to the design
pressure of the valve and a flow velocity of 8 ft/sec (2.4 m/sec).
4.4.9.2 Stop-limiting devices. Valve actuators shall be equipped with
mechanical stop-limiting devices for the open and closed positions. Te closed-
position mechanical stop-limiting device shall be externally adjustable.
4.4.9.3 Safety factor. Actuator housings, supports, and connections to the
valve shall be designed with a minimum safety factor of5, based on ultimate strength.
4.4.9.4 Direction of opening. Te standard direction of opening the
valve is counterclockwise.
4.4.9.5 Manual actuators.
4.4.9.5.1 Each manual actuator shall have gearing totally enclosed.
4.4.9.5.2 Actuators shall be designed to produce the required operating
torque with a maximum rim pull of 80 lb (356 N) on the handwheel or chainwheel
and a maximum input of 150 ft-lb (203 N•m) on wrench nuts. Actuator compo-
nents between the input and the open and closed position stops shall be designed
to withstand, without damage, a rim pull of 200 lb (890 N) for handwheel or
chainwheel and an input torque of 300 ft-lb (407 N•m) for wrench nuts.
4.4.9.5.3 Actuators for buried service valves shall be not less than 90 percent
grease packed and totally sealed by means of gaskets, O-rings, or similar means.
4.4.9.5.4 Te manufacturer shall select a representative actuator within
each of the torque ranges for proof-of-design testing purposes.
4.4.9.5.5 Gear actuators shall be self-locking and designed to transmit
twice the required actuator torque without damage to the faces of the gear teeth.
4.4.9.5.6 Te design shall be verified by subjecting one prototype actuator
of each model and torque rating to a shop torque test equal to or greater than twice
the rated torque. In addition, manual actuators shall be tested while the actuator
components are against the open and the closed stop-limiting devices by applying
either a 200-lb (890-N) pull to a handwheel or chainwheel actuator, or an input
torque of 300 ft-lb (407 N•m) to an actuator nut, depending on which method
produces greater input shaft torque. After testing, the actuator shall be completely
disassembled and carefully examined for evidence of damage. Te manufacturer
shall provide, when required in the purchase documents, certified copies of reports
describing the procedures and results of the tests for each model and torque rating
of the actuator to be provided.
Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.
1 0  AWWA C51 7-1 6

Table 2 Prototype actuator test cycles required

orque Range
T
ft-lb (N•m) Number of Cycles
Up to 3,750 (Up to 5,080) 10,000
3,751–6,250 (5,081–8,470) 5,000
6,251 and greater (8,471 and greater) 1,000
4.4.9.5.7 Te design shall also be verified by cycle testing of one prototype
actuator of each model through a full 90-degree cycle with full-rated actuator
torque at the closed position. Te number of cycles shall be in accordance with
Table 2. After the cycle testing, the actuator shall be completely disassembled and
inspected to determine whether excessive wear and permanent deformation that
would afect its function have occurred. Successful completion of the test shall
satisfy the requirements for all similarly designed actuators within the torque range
specified. When required in the purchase documents, the manufacturer shall fur-
nish certified copies of reports describing the procedures and results of the cycle
testing for each model of the actuator to be provided.
4.4.9.6 Power actuators. If power actuators are required for the operation
of the plug valve, they shall meet the requirements of ANSI/AWWA C541 and
C542 and be rated to produce not less than the required valve seating and dynamic
torque. In addition, actuators used for modulating service shall be rated to produce
not less than twice the required valve dynamic torque. Motors shall be sized for a
minimum of 1.5 times, and cylinders shall be sized for a minimum of 1.25 times
the actuator torque requirement.
4.4.9.7 Wrench nuts. Te wrench nuts shall be 1 5/16-in. (49.2-mm) 1

square at the top, 2-in. (50.8-mm) square at the base, and 1¾-in. (44.5 -mm)
high. Nuts shall have a flanged base on which shall be cast an arrow at least 2-in.
(50.8-mm) long showing the direction of opening. Te word “OPEN” in ½-in.
(12.7-mm) or larger letters shall be cast on the nut to clearly indicate the direc-
tion to turn the wrench when opening the valve. Direct wrench-nut actuated
valves shall be equipped with an adjustable friction collar to hold the valve in any
position under operation.
4.4.9.8 Handwheels. An arrow showing the direction to turn the hand-
wheel to open the valve, with the word “OPEN” in ½-in. (12.7-mm) or larger letters

Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

 RESI LI EN T-SE ATED CAST-IRON ECCEN TRI C PLUG VALVES  11

in a break in the arrow shaft, shall be cast, stamped, or embossed on the rim of the
handwheel so as to be readily readable.
Sec. 4.5 Workmanship and Coating
4.5.1 Workmanship. Valve parts shall be designed and manufacturing tol-
erances set to provide interchangeability of parts between units of the same size and
type produced by any one manufacturer. When assembled, valves manufactured
in accordance with this standard shall be well fitted and shall operate smoothly.
4.5.2 Coating. Exterior surfaces, except finished or bearing surfaces, shall
be carefully prepared by removing dirt, grease, and rust and shall be cleaned to the
extent that the coating will bond to the surfaces.
4.5.2.1 Buried valves. External surfaces of buried valves shall be shop-
coated.
4.5.2.2 Nonburied valves. External surfaces of nonburied valves, except
flange faces, shall be shop-coated with a suitable metal primer or better system to
a dry film thickness of not less than 3 mil. Te primer shall be compatible with
the anticipated field coatings when the field coatings are identified in the purchase
documents. Flange faces shall be protected from atmospheric corrosion.
4.5.2.3 Severe conditions. Te coatings required in Sec. 4.5.2.1 and
Sec. 4.5.2.2 are for usual conditions. Te purchase documents should define
other painting, coating, or special protection systems if required for severe con-
ditions such as exposure to corrosive soils, corrosive water, fumes, or abrasion.
SECTION 5: VERIFICATION

Sec. 5.1 Inspection

Work performed in accordance with this standard shall be subject to inspec-
tion and approved as per the purchase documents.
5.1 .1 Plant inspection. When requested in the purchase documents, the
purchaser shall have unrestricted access to all places materials are produced, assem-
bled, or tested.
Sec. 5.2 Testing
5.2.1 Production testing.
5.2.1.1 Shell test. With the plug in the open position and the valve ends
sealed, each assembled valve shall be subjected to a hydrostatic pressure of 1½ times
the design pressure. Te duration of the test shall be as specified in Table 3. No
Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.
1 2  AWWA C51 7-1 6

Table 3 Minimum duration of shell and seat tests

Size Group Shell Test Seat Test
in. (mm) sec sec

12 and smaller (300 and smaller) 30 15

14–24 (350–600) 60 30
Larger than 24 (Larger than 600) 180 60
visible leakage or visible permanent deformation shall be permitted. If a direct
pressure seat test is to be performed, stem seal leakage during the hydrostatic shell
test shall not be cause for rejection.
5.2.1 .2 Seat test. Each valve shall be subjected to a hydrostatic seat test.
Te test shall be performed, at a pressure at least equal to the purchaser-defined
seat test pressure or design pressure, when tested in direct pressure. Te duration
of each seat test shall be as specified in Table 3. For the duration of the seat test,
no visible leakage shall be permitted at the seat, stem seal, or other pressure-
containing joints.
5.2.1 .3 Direct pressure. Te seat test shall be performed using direct
pressure.
5.2.1 .4 Reverse pressure. For purchaser-defned reverse pressure applica-
tions, the seat test shall be performed at the specifed reverse operating pressure or
higher.
5.2.2 Proof-of-design tests.

5.2.2.1 Structural test of the plug. One valve of each size shall be tested.
Te valve shall be tested in the closed position. A pressure of two times the design
pressure shall be applied to one side of the plug and then to the other. No breakage
or permanent deformation is allowable. Special provisions may be made to prevent
leakage past the plug as long as they do not interfere with or influence the test.
5.2.2.2 Cycle test.
5.2.2.2.1 One valve from each size range shall be cycle tested, as designated
in Table 4.
5.2.2.2.2 For 42-in. valves and smaller, one valve cycle shall consist of
rotating the valve from the full-open position to the full-closed position, pressur-
izing the valve to the full rating of the valve on the direct pressure side of the plug
with zero pressure on the reverse pressure side of the plug, and then rotating the
plug from the full-closed position to the full-open position. Valves 48 in. and larger
Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.
 RESI LIEN T-SEATED CAST-I RON ECCEN TRI C PLUG VALVES  13

Table 4 Valve test cycles required

Size Group
in. (mm) Number of Cycles
3–20 (75–500) 10,000
24–42 (600–1,050) 5,000
48–72 (1,200–1,800) 1,000
shall be tested to a minimum of 10 degrees open, unless required otherwise in the
purchase documents.
5.2.2.2.3 At the completion of the cycle test, each valve shall be subjected
to a hydrostatic seat test. Te test shall be performed at the design pressure. Te
duration of each seat test shall be in accordance with Table 3. During the dura-
tion of the seat test, no visible leakage is permitted at the seat, stem seal, or other
pressure-containing joints. If necessary, adjustment for wear shall be allowed,
but the frequency and nature of adjustment shall be included in the certified test
record.
5.2.2.2.4 On completion of the cycle test, the corrosion-resistant seating
surface shall show no signs of extensive wear, cracking, or bonding failure.
Sec. 5.3 Basis for Rejection
Material and performance tests not complying with the requirements of this
standard and the purchaser’s documents shall be rejected. Repairs, replacements,
and retesting shall be accomplished in accordance with the purchase documents
and this standard.
SECTION 6: DELIVERY

Sec. 6.1 Marking

Markings shall be cast on the body with raised letters or shall be provided on
a corrosion-resistant plate. Te markings shall show the nominal valve size, manu-
facturer’s name or trademark, design pressure rating, and maximum shutof pres-
sure, if less than the design pressure, and provide a means of identifying the year of
manufacture. Te seat end is to be clearly indicated on the exterior relative to half
of the body containing the plug/seat interface. Te minimum size of cast letters
shall be ¼ in. (6.35 mm) for 3-in. (75-mm) through 12-in. (300-mm) valves and
Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.
1 4  AW WA C51 7-1 6

½ in. (12.7 mm) for larger valves. Corrosion-resistant plates shall have a minimum
of ⅛-in. (3.18-mm) etched or engraved letters.
Sec. 6.2 Shipping
Valves shall be complete when shipped. Te manufacturer shall use care in
preparing valves for shipment. All cavities shall be drained of water. Valves larger
than 12 in. (300 mm) shall be bolted or otherwise fastened to skids so as to pre-
clude damage in subsequent handling. Unpainted steel and iron-machined sur-
faces, except flange faces, shall be coated with a rust inhibitor. If valves are not
otherwise fully wrapped and protected from the environment, full-face flange
protectors of at least the outside diameter of the flange shall be fastened to each
flange to protect both the flange and the valve interior. Small valves may be fully
packaged at the manufacturer’s option. Components shipped unattached shall be
adequately protected and identified for correct field assembly.
Sec. 6.3 A fdavit of Compliance
Te manufacturer shall, if required in the purchase documents, provide an
afdavit attesting that the valve(s) and actuator(s) supplied comply with all appli-
cable provisions of this standard and the provisions of the purchase documents.

Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

 APPENDIX A
Installation, Operation, and Maintenance of Resilient-Seated
Cast-Iron Eccentric Plug Valves

Tis appendix is for information only and is not a part ofANSI/AWWA C517.

SECTION A.1 : GENERAL

Plug valves are a significant component of any water distribution system or
treatment plant operation. Valve failure because of faulty installation or improper
operation or maintenance in such systems could result in damage, downtime, and
costly repairs. In buried or underground installations, problems or malfunctions
can result in extensive and costly unearthing operations to correct or eliminate the
problem. Many problems with plug valves can be traced to improper installation,
operation, or maintenance procedures.

SECTION A.2: UNLOADING

Inspect valves on receipt for damage in shipment and conformance with
quantity and description on the shipping notice and order. Unload valves carefully
to the ground without dropping. On valves larger than 1 2 in. (300 mm), use fork-
lifts or slings under skids. On smaller valves, do not lift valves with slings or chain
around an actuator or through a waterway. Lift these valves with eyebolts or rods
through flange holes or chain hooks at the ends of valve parts.

SECTION A.3: STORAGE

If it is not practical to store the valve indoors, protect the valve and actuators
from weather and the accumulation of dirt, rocks, and debris. When valves fitted
with power actuators and controls are stored, energize electric actuators or other-
wise protect electrical-control equipment to prevent corrosion of electrical contacts
caused by condensation resulting from temperature variation. Do not expose resil-
ient seats to sunlight or ozone for any extended period. Also see the manufacturer’s
specific storage instructions.

15
Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.
1 6  AW WA C51 7-1 6

SECTION A.4: INSPECTION PRIOR TO

INSTALLATION
Ensure valve ends and seats are clean. Check all exposed bolting for loosening
in transit and handling and tighten to manufacturer’s recommendations. Open and
close the valve to make sure it operates properly and that stops or limit-switches are
correctly set so that the plug seats fully. Close the valve before installing. Check coat-
ings for damage and repair as required.
SECTION A.5: INSTALLATION
It is strongly recommended that instruction manuals supplied by the manu-
facturer be reviewed in detail before installing plug valves. Be sure the inspection,
as described in Sec. A.4, is carried out at the jobsite prior to installation.
Sec. A.5.1 Handling
Handle valves carefully when positioning, avoiding contact or impact with
other equipment or structures.
Sec. A.5.2 Service Conditions
Valves are to be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
A.5.2.1 Clean service. Eccentric plug valves used for fluids free of sus-
pended solids may be installed in any orientation. If practical, the valves shall be
installed so the pipeline pressure is exerting force on the plug from opposite the seat
end of the valve (direct pressure).
A.5.2.2 Other service. Eccentric plug valves used for fluids containing
suspended solids should be installed as shown in Figure A.1 . When installed in
horizontal pipes, the axis of the plug is to be horizontal, with flow entering the
valve body from the seat end. Te plug is to rotate counterclockwise to open, keep-
ing the plug in the upper half of the body. When installed in vertical pipes, the seat
end shall be oriented as shown in Figure A.1 .
Sec. A.5.3 Buried Installations
When practical, valves in buried installations should be located in unpaved
areas.
Sec. A.5.4 Cleaning
Be sure valve interiors, ends, and adjacent piping are cleaned of foreign mate-
rial before making up valve-to-pipe joint connection.
Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.
 RESI LIEN T-SEATED CAST-I RON ECCEN TRI C PLUG VALVES  17

Flow
Settled Solids Cannot
Enter Closed Valve

CW to Seat End CCW to CW to

Close Close Close Seat End
Body Plug

Plug
CCW to Flow
Close

Solids Drain From Valve

Settled Solids
Flow Body
N OTE : Plug must rest in upper half of body when the valve is open.
N OTE : Seat must be in upper half of body. Flow is in the other direction when used in clean water service.
Vertical Pipe Horizontal Pipe

CW = clockwise; CCW = counterclockwise.

Image courtesy of Robert O’Neill.
Figure A.1 Recommended installation position for suspended solids service
Source:

Sec. A.5.5 Pipe Ends

Prepare pipe ends and install valves in accordance with the pipe manufac-
turer’s instructions for the joint used. Do not deflect the pipe-valve joint. Do not
use a valve as a jack to pull pipe into alignment. In plant piping, the valve shall be
installed so as to minimize the bending stresses in the valve end connection with
pipe loading.
Sec. A.5.6 Installation
For mechanical-joint–end valves, lubrication and additional cleaning should
be provided by brushing both the gasket and the plain end of the mating pipe with
soapy water or pipe lubricant just before slipping the gasket onto the plain end
and assembling the joint. When tightening bolts, it is essential that the gland be
brought up toward the bell flange evenly, maintaining approximately the same dis-
tance between the gland and the face of the flange at all points around the socket.
Tis may be achieved by first partially tightening the bottom bolt; then, the top
bolt; next, the bolts at either side; and finally the remaining bolts. Tis process
should be repeated until all bolts are fully torqued.
Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.
1 8  AW WA C51 7-1 6

Sec. A.5.7 Valve Boxes

Buried valves installed with valve boxes shall be installed so that the valve box
does not transmit shock or stress to the valve actuator as a result of shifting soil or
trafc load.
Sec. A.5.8 Valves Installed in Vaults
When valves are installed in vaults, the vault design shall provide space for
removal of the valve-actuator assembly for purposes of repair. Consideration should
be given to the possible entry of groundwater or surface water and to the need to
provide for disposal thereof. Te valve operating nut should be accessible from the
top opening of the vault with a tee wrench.
SECTION A.6: TESTING
When resilient-seated cast-iron eccentric plug valves are used to isolate sec-
tions of a pipeline for testing, it is important to realize that eccentric plug valves
are typically factory adjusted to hold pressure only up to the specified shutof pres-
sure in the direct pressure direction. Before any field pressure test under conditions
diferent from above, it is recommended that the valve manufacturer be contacted
for approval. Otherwise, test pressures above the valve design pressure may cause
leakage, permanent damage, or structural failure to the valve and injury or death
to the operator.
Sec. A.6.1 Leaks
o prevent loss of time from searching for leaks, it is recommended, where
T
feasible, that excavations for buried valves not be backfilled until after pressure
tests have been completed.
Sec. A.6.2 Seat Leakage
Seat leakage can occur from foreign material in the line. If this occurs, open
the valve 5 to 10 degrees to obtain high-velocity flushing action, then close. Repeat
several times to clear seats for tight shutof. Do not force valves for a tighter seal.
Plug valves are provided with an externally adjustable closed stop on the actuator
to provide a tighter seal. See the instruction manual provided by the manufacturer
for the correct adjustment procedure.

Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

 RESI LIEN T-SEATED CAST-I RON ECCEN TRI C PLUG VALVES  19

SECTION A.7: RECORDS

On completion of installation, the valve location, size, make, type, date of
installation, number of turns to open, direction of opening, and any other infor-
mation deemed pertinent should be entered on the owner’s permanent records.

SECTION A.8: OPERATION

Sec. A.8.1 Design Pressure

Do not permit the use or operation of any valve at pressures above the rated
design pressure of the valve.

Sec. A.8.2 Input Torque

Do not exceed 300 ft-lb (407 N•m) input torque on actuators with wrench
nuts and do not exceed 200 lb (890 N) rim pull for handwheels or chainwheels.
If portable auxiliary actuators are used, size the actuator or use a torque-limiting
device to prevent application of torque exceeding 300 ft-lb (407 N•m). If an over-
size actuator with no means of limiting torque is used, stop the actuator before the
valve is fully opened or closed against stops and complete the operation manually.
Be sure to check the actuator directional switch against the direction indicated on
the wrench nut, handwheel, or records before applying opening or closing torque.

Sec. A.8.3 Sticking

If a valve is stuck in some intermediate position between open and closed,
check first for jamming in the actuator. If nothing is found, the interference is
inside the valve. In this case, do not attempt to force the plug open or closed,
because excessive torque in this position can severely damage internal parts.

SECTION A.9: MAINTENANCE

Maintenance of resilient-seated plug valves by the owner is generally limited
to actuators and shaft seals. Unless the owner has skilled personnel and proper
equipment, any major internal problem probably will require the valve's removal
from the line and return to the manufacturer for repair.

Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

20  AWWA C51 7-1 6

Sec. A.9.1 Normal Maintenance

Normal maintenance is in the area of shaft seals and actuators. Seal leakage,
broken parts, hard operation, and, in some cases, seat leakage should be corrected
by a repair crew as soon as possible after a defect is reported.
Sec. A.9.2 Valve Exercising
Each valve should be operated through a full cycle and returned to its normal
position on a time schedule that is designed to prevent a buildup of tubercula-
tion or other deposits that could render the valve inoperable or prevent a tight
shutof. Te interval of time between operations of valves in critical locations or
valves subjected to severe operating conditions should be shorter than for other less
important installations, but it can be whatever time period is found to be satisfac-
tory based on local experience. For gear operators, the number of turns required
to complete the operation cycle should be recorded and compared with permanent
installation records to ensure full plug travel.
Sec. A.9.3 Field Repairs
If repairs are to be made in the field, repair crews should take a full com-
plement of spare parts to the jobsite. Be sure to review the valve manufacturer’s
instructions before any repair work.
Sec. A.9.4 Isolation
Provision should be made to stop line flow and isolate the valve from line
pressure before performing any corrective maintenance.
Sec. A.9.5 Repair Testing
After completing repairs, cycle the valve through one complete operating
cycle and, after line pressure has been restored, inspect for leakage.
Sec. A.9.6 Valve Removal
If major repairs require the removal of the valve for repair, be sure to notify
interested parties in the water department and fire department that the valve and
line are out of service. On completion of repair and reinstallation, notify the same
personnel of the return of the valve and line to service.

Copyright © 201 6 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

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