8 Simple Ways to Get More Out of Control Valves

| Marcia Pohl

Don’t Let Them Run Out of Control

Companies spend millions of dollars automating their plants for a variety of reasons including increased productivity, improved quality, reduced human error, reduced manufacturing time, and better safety. Why, then, are as many as 30% of control valves running in manual mode?

There are some relatively simple things that can be done so that manufacturers can get more out of their automation investment. Let’s look at eight ways to improve performance.

#1. Understand What You Currently Have

Engineering and maintenance need a solid understanding of what is installed in the plant and how it affects their process. Daily activities should be prioritized accordingly. Organize your control loops into the following categories:

Process Critical—loops that directly control production rate
Performance Critical—loops that influence critical loops
Safety Critical—emergency shutdowns or safety management
Environmental Critical—loops that have an impact on regulatory agencies

#2. Properly Size Equipment

If your valve is too small or too large, control cannot be achieved. Typically, a control valve should operate somewhere between 60 – 80% open at the maximum flow rate.

#3. Run Loops in Automatic

Loops are placed in manual mode for a variety of reasons, but it should only be done on a temporary basis.

#4. Calibrate Instrumentation

You are only as good as the input you receive. If the instrumentation is giving you inaccurate data, then control will never be attained.

#5. Proper Sampling Times

Here are a few guidelines:

Flow: 1–2 seconds
Level: 1–5 seconds
Pressure: 1–5 seconds
Temperature (fast-acting): 5–15 seconds
Temperature (slow-acting): 15–30 seconds
PH Concentrations: 5–30 seconds

#6. Loop Enabling

Disable loop control when appropriate, i.e., cleaning.

#7. Preventive Maintenance

Prevent leaks and stiction. A loop cannot be controlled efficiently without working seals and limit switches that function properly.

#8. Know When to Retune a Loop

Here are reasons you may retune a loop: Procedural changes Equipment changes Material changes Seasonal changes

There is much to be gained by optimizing control valves and your automation investment, and we can help you find the right solution. Contact us today!