Diagnose Valves, Actuators, and Positioners

By DE Editors

Flowserve Corp. (Irving, TX) has launched Flowserve ValveAnalysis, aplug-in for Emerson's (formerly Fisher-Rosemount; Houston, TX) ProcessManagement AMS suite of asset management tools. ValveAnalysis,according to the company, enables AMS users to run diagnosticsignatures for Flowserve valves, actuators, and positioners therebyobtaining vital data that can be used to maximize equipmentperformance. ValveAnalysis is said to enable users of AMS 6.0 or laterto increase the flexibility of their Emerson DCS (distributed controlsystem), assure the interoperability of their Flowserve equipment, andpreserve the value of their Flowserve equipment base.

For positioners with actuator pressure management, ValveAnalysis hasthe Ramp Signature diagnostic test. Ramp Signature tests plots commandversus position and compares this data to cylinder pressures. The RampSignature test can be used to identify problems such as leaks in tubingfittings, improperly aligned plugs and seats, loose linkage, brokenactuator springs, and sticky spool valves.

The ValveAnalysis HDL test calculates the four standard diagnosticsignatures:  hysteresis, deadband, repeatability, and linearity.You can capture and save these for future comparison to determinechanges in equipment performance over time.

ValveAnalysis integrates with the Flowserve Logix 520si and 3200IQ HARTpositioners. The company says that unlike similar competing software,ValveAnalysis does not bypass AMS, which ensures that a full devicehistory is maintained.

For full details, go to Flowserve Corp.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company's website.