5 replies to this topic

[Sherif Morsi]

Hi,

 

I am currently reviewing a typical P&ID of a vessel and two discharge pumps. The ESD valve as well as the manual isolation valves between the vessel and the pumps are reduced bore ball valves. The question is: Is there a necessity to have them as full bore valves instead of reduced bore?

 

My understanding is that full bore are typically used to reduce the pressure drop. Are there other cases?

 

In some literature and posts here in the form, people talk about full port. Is it another terminology for full bore?

 

Thanks,

Sherif 

[Art Montemayor]

Sherif:

 

Other applications for a full bore ball valve would be where you require a minimum of contraction in the flow to allow a fluid with solids to flow through with ease and not plug up.  Another use would be where you require a need to subject the pipe to "pigging" operations (where you flow a solid or inflated "pig" through the pipe in order to clear and purge it out positively.  This is done in gas and oil pipelines.

[Sherif Morsi]

So there is no harm from using reduced bore as ESD valves? Would it affect how effective the valve is tight?

 

Also, what about this full port thing?

 

Thanks

Sherif

[fallah]

Sherif,

 

It isn't mandatory for an ESD valve to be full bore; it can be full or reduced bore.  For manual ball valves in several applications. using full bore ones is highly recommended:

• Along the lines subject to pig launching (reduced bore may prevent pig movement)...
• As inlet/outlet isolation valves of the PSVs (safety issue due to possible blockage)...

Indeed a BDV when a RO is used at its downstream should be full bore...

[Sherif Morsi]

Thanks Art and Fallah for your input.

[Justin Holmes]

To answer your other question:  yes, full port is the same as full bore.