Industrial Valve Procurement Checklist for EPC Projects

Precision is a primary consideration in Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) projects. Whether in the gas, oil, or power sector, significant piping budgets are involved, and selecting the best valve supplier will be a critical cost-saving factor. 

The industrial valve procurement checklist below will streamline product outsourcing and ensure mechanical integrity. 

1. Identify Compliance and Design Standards

Compliance with industry standards is necessary and must be the primary technical requirement in any checklist. 

• Design Standards: For pipeline valves, see API 6D. Meanwhile, steel gate valves and their pressure-temperature ratings must comply with API 600 and ASME B16.34, respectively. 
• Face-to-Face Dimensions: Ensure the valve is compatible with the existing piping layout per ASME B16.10. 
• Testing Policies: Valves intended for high-pressure movements must be API 598-verified.

2. Valve Material Selection and Media Compatibility

Valve leaks can occur when materials are poorly selected. It’s necessary for the procurement plan to match the valve body and trim materials to the processed media. 

• Corrosive Environments: Compliance with NACE MR0175/ISO 15156 must be specified for chemical processing and sour gas. 
• Temperature Ranges: Standard temperatures must comply with ASTM A216 WCB or LCB carbon steel. Meanwhile, high-heat applications must adhere to CF8M stainless steel standards. 
• Trim Grades: The trim number must be specified in API 600 to ensure internal components can withstand erosion. 

3. Precision in Actuation and Automation

There must be system synchronization for EPC infrastructures. With this, the industrial valve procurement checklist must specify automation requirements. 

• Operation Type: Assess if the valve needs hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric actuators. 
• Fail-Safe Requirements: To ensure operational safety compliance during power loss, determine whether the system requires ‘Fail-Closed’ or ‘Fail-Open’ functionality. 
• Duty Cycle: The manufacturer must also be able to discuss the operating frequency with you to avoid seal wear or premature motor failure. 

4. Quality Assurance and Factory Documentation

As a business owner, ensure your valve manufacturer provides a comprehensive data package. Transparency in procurement is vital to avoid delays in shipping and installation. 

• Mill Test Reports (MTRs): These reports list all properties of the raw materials used in casting. 
• Pressure Test Reports: They document seat and shell tests that ensure valves meet their rated pressure class. 
• Certifications: Manufacturers must have the ISO 9001 for quality management and CE/PED for international exports. 

5. Logistics and Purchase Support

EPC projects usually face tight deadlines. For this reason, manufacturers must foster an efficient and sufficient supply chain logistics. 

• Lead Times: Confirm valve production schedules and shipment timelines early in the procurement process. 
• Packaging: These products undergo maritime transit, and it’s vital that the valves be placed in a seaworthy wooden package. 
• Spare Parts: Verify that the manufacturer maintains a list of spare parts that have been operational for at least two years. 

Secure the Best EPC Supply Chain

Whatever valve you need for the EPC project, a reliable industrial valve procurement checklist is necessary. It streamlines processes and allows your business source certified, durable industrial valves. Most importantly, the checklist enables you to partner with the right valve manufacturer.