VALVE MAGAZINE Fall 2023

Flow Control Valves in Energy: Problems and Solutions When systems are operating optimally, they can improve productivity, lower operating costs, increase reliability, reduce emissions and enhance safety.

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Flow control system efficiency is central to operational sustainability across multiple

cerning environmental impact and safety risks. Even if your outdated system doesn’t result in a catastrophe, you could still face the pressures and fines of increased regulation. UNPACKING SOME OF THE PROBLEMS POSED BY AGING TECHNOLOGY n Unresponsive BOP Control Systems: Due to outdated designs, aging systems lack the latest safety features. As one example, unreliable blowout preventer (BOP) control sys tems may not be able to handle sudden changes in extreme pressure environments. This increases the risk of failure and exacerbates the safety risks of uncontrolled flow during drilling. n Reduced Performance: As with safety features, obso lete flow control systems lack the latest high-performance components. Not only does this reduce efficiency, but sys tems are also more likely to suffer breakdowns — both criti cally detrimental to your bottom line. n Lack of Spares: The inaccessibility to spares for outdat ed machinery parts further prolongs downtime during repairs. This affects productivity and profitability significantly. n High Energy Consumption: Outdated technology leans heavily on energy consumption; higher energy outputs for lower performance ultimately means increased operational costs down the line.

BY COLLEEN URIARTE

energy markets. When operating optimally, these systems improve productivity, lower operating costs, increase reli ability, reduce emissions and enhance safety. However, out dated systems and equipment — which continuously bear extreme demands — present a major challenge. To ensure safe and smooth operations, aging control systems within the oil and gas industry need preemptive maintenance mon itoring to support peak performance. Thankfully, advancing technologies offer significantly improved methods to solve engineering problems, leading to more accurate and efficient processes. Let’s explore the crit ical nature of control systems in addressing energy market challenges and enhancing system performance — and how technological advancements can help. THE IMPACTS OF AGING SYSTEMS AND INFRASTRUCTURE Oil and gas leaks or release from aging flow control systems can have disastrous consequences, including worker injuries, safety hazards, pollution, environmental damage, danger to surrounding communities — and ultimately, a major blow to a company’s bottom line. In addition, the energy market faces increased scrutiny from regulators and the public con

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