Orton S.r.l. supplies bespoke butterfly valve for Saudi plant

The valve was built specifically for the project. (Image source: Orton S.r.l.)

Orton S.r.l. (IMI Orton) has successfully carried out factory acceptance testing (FAT) on a triple offset butterfly valve, designed specifically for a new propane dehydrogenation (PDH) plant in Saudi Arabia

The metal-to-metal triple offset butterfly valve, one of its largest ever butterfly valves, went through the testing process at IMI Orton’s facility in Piacenza, Italy, to ensure that it met vital performance specifications. The triple offset control valve is an 84" ANSI Cl. 300, which has been designed to withstand temperatures of up to 730°C. It was delivered to site in September 2023.

“Working closely with our customer to demonstrate the potential of triple offset butterfly valves for use in high-stress conditions has been a very rewarding experience,” explains Giacomo Boledi, area sales manager at IMI Orton. “Of course, a key part of this exciting project is ensuring that any newly designed component can meet the application requirements, so we’re thrilled that this new valve has passed our rigorous FAT process.

“Other valve types have traditionally been used in these scenarios, but with facility performance under increasing scrutiny and the need to reduce OpEx costs, it is encouraging to see new approaches being explored. The fact that the valve is required to continuously move for such a demanding, precise application means its tightness, compactness and robust full metal construction is vital to this application, so testing was especially important in this case.”

The triple offset butterfly valve, which was built bespoke for this project, is designed to operate at expected temperatures of 690°C, with a maximum design temperature of 730°C, and at tightness levels meeting FCI 70-2 class V. Its stainless steel, non-rubbing seat design also ensures a long service life – a vital consideration for operation in propane dehydrogenation plants.