Methods used for flow regulation in an Automatic Recirculation Control (ARC) Valve

Automatic Recirculation Control Valves are some of the typical process equipment pieces. In the modern world, there are process requirements to be met by various flow requirements. Consequently, there are several ways of maintaining minimum flow at the ARC valve all the times. If you want to know how you can maintain a minimum flow, check the points discussed below.

1. Use of continuous bypass system

The system in question installs several orifice plates in a line of the bypass, thus bypassing the minimum flow of the pump to the sanction tank. As a result, the automatic recirculation valve manages to maintain a minimum flow. However, there is a lot of power wastage in this system since the flow unnecessarily runs through the bypass. Therefore, although the method achieves its objective, it is relatively expensive.

2. Controlled bypass system

The controlled bypass system is another control method developed by automatic recirculation valve manufacturers to ensure they maintain the minimum flow. The technique uses instrumentation and a control valve to deter flow to the bypass when necessary. A sensor is used to define the low flow, which leads to the valve opening. The sensor uses an actuator to regulate the suction tank flow back. The system requires several parts to work together, thus making it relatively complicated.

3. Use of VSD control

The VSD is used as a pump recirculation control valve to allow different process conditions in the pump system, thus maintaining the minimum flow. However, although the minimum is flow is maintained as required, the method in question requires costly and complicated electronics for it to work. Besides, a lot of cooling and control are needed for the system in question to work efficiently.

4. Sizing the valve

Sizing the valve method is an automatic recirculation valve specification used to control the minimum flow. However, a lot of information is required before successfully using this method. For instance, you will be required to know the temperature of the fluid to be used, specific gravity, pump head, a minimum flow of the pump, the rating of the pump outlet and the flange size, the pump curve, body materials, and whether the installation will be vertical or horizontal. However, vertical installation is the most standard and preferred way.

5. Schroedahl Automatic Recirculation Valve

The method is structured to keep the pump functioning on its pump curve. Subsequently, the technique is good to pump industry news since it is the most reliable and economical form. It ensures that the pump is protected all the time, thus maintaining the minimum flow.

In conclusion,

A regulation on the amount of flow in Automatic Recirculation Control Valves is essential. As a result, several methods have been developed to govern and maintain the rate of flow. However, some of the methods used are either complex to use or relatively expensive. Therefore, if you are planning to use one of these control methods, used the most favorable, and efficient.