Scribd
Upload
163 views4 pages

API 2000 Valve Testing

API 2000 Section 5.3.2.1 requires at least one valve per size to be flow tested in both pressure and vacuum directions, with additional tests for variations in design. Testing typically involves measuring flow at set points and at 110% and 120% of those points to define flow capacity. Final deliverables include flow rates, flow curves, and certification of compliance with API 2000 standards.

Uploaded by

PrajaktaTalekar
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
163 views4 pages

API 2000 Valve Testing

API 2000 Section 5.3.2.1 requires at least one valve per size to be flow tested in both pressure and vacuum directions, with additional tests for variations in design. Testing typically involves measuring flow at set points and at 110% and 120% of those points to define flow capacity. Final deliverables include flow rates, flow curves, and certification of compliance with API 2000 standards.

Uploaded by

PrajaktaTalekar
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

According to API 2000 Section 5.3.2.

1:

Q: How many valves do you need to test per size?

A:

“At least one valve per size and configuration shall be flow tested in the pressure
and vacuum directions.”

So, for 2-inch:

You must test 1 valve (as a representative sample)


If you offer both pressure and vacuum relief, both directions must be tested

Note: If the valve design has options like different materials, inlet/outlet orientations, or seat
types — each variation may require a separate test if they affect flow.

Q: How many set points are needed?

API 2000 doesn't mandate fixed "set points," but:

Typically, for one valve:

Test at set point, then at 110% and/or 120% of set point (overpressure condition)

This helps define the flow curve shape and capacity

Pressure Side:

Set at e.g., +40 mmWC

Test at:
40 mmWC

44 mmWC (110%)

48 mmWC (120%)

Vacuum Side:

Set at e.g., –30 mmWC

Test at:

–30 mmWC

–33 mmWC (110%)

–36 mmWC (120%)

Q: What’s the flow capacity criteria?

Per Section 5.3.2.1 (and 5.3.3):

Flow capacity must be measured at overpressure (110–120%)

Test must be done in standard conditions (converted to Nm³/hr)

You must generate a flow vs. differential pressure curve (Pressure Drop vs. Flow Rate)

Testing Procedure Summary for a 2-inch Breather Valve


(API 2000)

1. Prepare Test Valve

Select 2” valve sample (same internal geometry, material, seat)

Calibrate set point spring/weight:

Pressure: +40 mmWC


Vacuum: –30 mmWC (as example)

2. Mount in Test Rig (e.g., at FCRI)

Use calibrated flow meter and pressure sensor

Measure upstream and downstream pressure differential

3. Test in Both Directions

For Pressure:

Start flow and raise pressure gradually

Record flow at:

100%, 110%, and 120% of +40 mmWC

For Vacuum:

Pull vacuum using blower/suction

Record flow at:

100%, 110%, and 120% of –30 mmWC

4. Plot Flow Curve

X-axis: Differential Pressure (mmWC)

Y-axis: Flow Rate (Nm³/hr)

You’ll get two curves:

Pressure flow curve

Vacuum flow curve

Example of Flow Curve (Conceptual)


✅ Final Test Deliverables:

Set pressure & vacuum points with calibration tolerance (usually ±3 mmWC)

Flow rates at each overpressure point

Flow curve graphs

Test setup photos (if allowed)

Certification of compliance with API 2000

You might also like