Steam Pumps in Oklahoma

When sizing a pump there are four basic things you must know:

• Flow (usually measured in GPM).
• Total dynamic head (measured in feet or psi).
• Suction pressure, known as net positive suction head.
• Fluid properties.

Using a variable-flow pump in the right applications can save energy and extend the life of the pump.

Essentially valves have these primary functions:

1. Starting and stopping flow.
2. Regulating flow or throttling by change of direction or restriction
3. Preventing Backflow
4. Relieving and regulating pressure.

The secret to good valve performance is selecting the right valve for the service required.

Consider Service Conditions
In selecting the valve which will give the best service and, in turn, keep plant maintenance and operating cost at a minimum, the following things should be considered.

A. Type Medium to be Handled
1. What liquid or gas will the valve handle?
2. Is it a true fluid or does it contain solids?
3. Does it remain a liquid throughout its flow or does it vaporize and become a gas along the way? Does it crystallize?
4. Is it corrosive or erosive?

B. Pressure and Temperature
These may vary throughout the handling system and should be considered in selecting the right valve materials.

C. Flow Considerations
1. Is pressure drop critical?
2. Is valve to be for simple shutoff or for throttling?
3. Is valve needed for prevention of backflow?

D. Frequency of Operation
1. Will valve be normally open with infrequent operation?
2. If operated frequently, will valve design chosen provide maximum wear?

Basic types of valves we carry include:

1. Gate
2. Globe and Angle
3. Check
4. Plug
5. Butterfly
6. Ball
7. Slurry

Special attention must be given to selecting proper valve materials. It is often advisable to choose the valve body bonnet material first and then the trim. Aside from the primary function of the valve (shutoff, throttling, etc.), other factors govern the basic material selection.

1. Pressure-temperature ratings.
2. Corrosion resistance requirements.
3. Thermal shock.
4. Physical shock.
5. Line stresses.
6. Fire hazards.

Trims are generally selected to meet corrosive conditions. In other cases, trimsmay be selected to solve problems from erosion or other conditions.