Valve Selection Guide

RP 62-1
GUIDE TO VALVE SELECTION

November 1998
Copyright © The British Petroleum Company p.l.c.

Copyright © The British Petroleum Company p.l.c.
All rights reserved. The information contained in this document is
subject to the terms and conditions of the agreement or contract
under which the document was supplied to the recipient’s
organisation. None of the information contained in this document
shall be disclosed outside the recipient’s own organisation without
the prior written permission of Manager, Standards, BP International
Limited, unless the terms of such agreement or contract expressly
allow.
BP GROUP RECOMMENDED PRACTICES AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR ENGINEERING
Issue Date November 1998

Doc. No. RP 62-1 Latest Amendment Date
Document Title
APPLICABILITY
Regional Applicability: International
Business Applicability: All Businesses
SCOPE AND PURPOSE
This document presents guidelines for the selection of isolating, check and diverter valves
for applications commonly met in the petroleum, petrochemical and associated industries.
This Recommended Practice is intended for use in the modification or expansion of the
existing facilities and in the conceptual, front end and detailed engineering development of
new projects. It is applicable to onshore, offshore and subsea requirements as defined in the
Scope.
It should be recognised that valves are an extensive and complex subject and it is not
possible to cover all applications, services and duties in the initial issue of this Practice.
While international in applicability, this document makes extensive reference to British
Standards as substitutes for or supplements to international industry standards.
AMENDMENTS
Amd Date Page(s) Description
___________________________________________________________________
CUSTODIAN (See Status List for Contact)

Valves
Issued by:-
Engineering Practices Group, BP International Limited, Research & Engineering Centre
Chertsey Road, Sunbury-on-Thames, Middlesex, TW16 7LN, UNITED KINGDOM
Tel: +44 1932 76 4067 Fax: +44 1932 76 4077 Telex: 296041
CONTENTS
Section Page
FOREWORD ...................................................................................................................... v
1. SCOPE ............................................................................................................................ 1
1.1 Scope ................................................................................................................. 1
1.2 Application ................................................................................................................ 1
2. VALVE SELECTION..................................................................................................... 2
2.1 Introduction............................................................................................................... 2
2.2 Valve Function .......................................................................................................... 2
2.3 Service Characteristics............................................................................................... 3
2.4 Selection of Valve Types ........................................................................................... 4
TABLE 1 ............................................................................................................................ 6
SELECTION OF ISOLATION (BLOCK) VALVES (SERVICE CONDITIONS)........... 6
TABLE 2 ............................................................................................................................ 7
SELECTION OF ISOLATION (BLOCK) VALVES....................................................... 7
(SERVICE CONDITIONS AND SIZES) ........................................................................ 7
TABLE 3 ............................................................................................................................ 8
(FEATURES) 8
TABLE 4 ............................................................................................................................ 9
(AVAILABLE MATERIALS)......................................................................................... 9
TABLE 5 .......................................................................................................................... 10
SELECTION OF ISOLATION (BLOCK) VALVES..................................................... 10
(ACHIEVABLE LEAKAGE RATES)........................................................................... 10
TABLE 6 .......................................................................................................................... 11
SELECTION OF CHECK AND DIVERTER VALVES................................................. 11

(SERVICE CONDITIONS) .......................................................................................... 11
TABLE 7 ..............................................................................................................................
DIAPHRAGM VALVES............................................................................................... 12
TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION ..................................................................................... 12
KEY..................................................................................................... 13
RP 62-1 PAGE i
TABLE 7 .......................................................................................................................... 13
DIAPHRAGM VALVES............................................................................................... 13
TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION ..................................................................................... 13
TABLE 8 .......................................................................................................................... 14
SELECTION OF CHECK AND DIVERTER VALVES................................................ 14
(AVAILABLE MATERIALS)....................................................................................... 14
3. VALVE TYPES, FUNCTION AND APPLICATIONS (GENERAL)......................... 15

3.1 Valve Function ........................................................................................................ 15
3.2 Valve Types for Isolation (Block) Duty.................................................................... 16
3.3 Valve Types for Prevention of Flow Reversal (Check) ............................................. 17
3.4 Valves for Special Applications................................................................................ 18
4. SERVICE CHARACTERISTICS ................................................................................ 24

4.1 Fluid Characteristics, General................................................................................... 24
4.2 Clean Service........................................................................................................... 24
4.3 Dirty Service............................................................................................................ 25
4.4 Abrasive Service ...................................................................................................... 25
4.5 Sandy Service .......................................................................................................... 25
4.6 Fouling Service ........................................................................................................ 26
4.7 Slurry Services......................................................................................................... 26
4.8 Solids ............................................................................................................... 26
4.9 Hazardous Service ................................................................................................... 26
4.10 Flammable Service ................................................................................................. 27
4.11 Searching Service................................................................................................... 27
4.12 Solidifying Service ................................................................................................. 27
4.13 Corrosive Service................................................................................................... 28
4.14 Viscous Service ..................................................................................................... 29
4.15 Vacuum Service..................................................................................................... 29
5. VALVE OPERATION & ISOLATION ....................................................................... 30

5.1 Fire Resistance......................................................................................................... 30
5.2 Operability 30
5.3 Isolation ............................................................................................................... 32
APPENDIX A .................................................................................................................... 35
DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS..................................................................... 35
APPENDIX B .................................................................................................................... 37
LIST OF REFERENCED DOCUMENTS ..................................................................... 37
APPENDIX C .................................................................................................................... 40
WELLHEAD GATE VALVES ..................................................................................... 40
RP 62-1 PAGE ii
C1. General ............................................................................................................... 40
C2. Valve Types ............................................................................................................ 40
C3. Valve Selection ....................................................................................................... 40
APPENDIX D .................................................................................................................... 46
BLOCK VALVE TYPES................................................................................................. 46
D1. Ball Valves ............................................................................................................. 46
D2. Butterfly Valves ...................................................................................................... 49
D3. Gate Valves ............................................................................................................ 54
D4. Globe or Screw-Down Stop Valves.......................................................................... 59
D5. Plug Valves............................................................................................................. 60
D6. Diaphragm Valves .................................................................................................. 65
D7. Pinch Valves........................................................................................................... 66
D8. Sampling Valves ..................................................................................................... 66
D9. Diverter Valves....................................................................................................... 67
APPENDIX E..................................................................................................................... 68
VALVE TYPES FOR PREVENTION OFFLOW REVERSAL (CHECK).......................... 68
E1. General ............................................................................................................... 68
E2. Valve Categories..................................................................................................... 70
E3. Lift Check Valves .................................................................................................... 70
E4. Swing Check Valves ................................................................................................ 72
E5. Diaphragm Check Valves ........................................................................................ 76
E6. Piston Type Check Valves ....................................................................................... 76
E7. Screw-Down Stop and Check Valves........................................................................ 77
E8. Wafer Check Valves ................................................................................................ 77
E9. Spring Operated Non-Slam Check Valves................................................................ 78
E10. Foot Valves ........................................................................................................... 78
E11. Check Valve Standards.......................................................................................... 78
APPENDIX F..................................................................................................................... 80
TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION ....................................................................................... 80
FIGURE F1 (part 1 of 2 ) GATE VALVES................................................................. 82
FIGURE F1 ( part 2 of 2 ) GATE VALVES................................................................ 83
FIGURE F2 ( PART 1 0F 2 ) GLOBE VALVES......................................................... 84
FIGURE F2 ( PART 2 OF 2 ) GLOBE VALVES ........................................................ 85
FIGURE F3 (PART 1 0F 3 ) CHECK VALVES.......................................................... 86
FIGURE F3 (PART 2 0F 3 ) CHECK VALVES.......................................................... 87
FIGURE F3 (PART 3 OF 3) CHECK VALVES.......................................................... 88
FIGURE F4 BALL VALVES (PART1 OF 2 )............................................................. 89
FIGURE 4 BALL VALVES PART 2. OF 2 ) .............................................................. 90
FIGURE F5 BUTTERFLY VALVES........................................................................... 91
FIGURE F6 PLUG VALVES ( PART 1 OF 2 )........................................................... 92
FIGURE F7 DIAPHRAGM VALVES ( PART 1 OF 2 )............................................... 93
FIGURE F7 DIAPHRAGM VALVES ( PART 2 OF 2 )............................................... 94
FIGURE F8 ( PART 1 OF 2 ) SPECIAL PURPOSE VALVES ................................... 95
RP 62-1 PAGE iii

FIGURE F8 ( PART 2 OF 2 ) SPECIAL PURPOSE VALVES ................................... 96
FIGURE F9 SPECIAL PURPOSE VALVES ............................................................... 97
FIGURE F10 PORT AND STOP ARRANGEMENTS (PAGE 1 0F 2)
MULTIPLE PORT VALVES........................................................................................ 98
FIGURE F10 PORT AND STOP ARRANGEMENTS (PAGE 2 0F 2)
MULTIPLE PORT VALVES........................................................................................ 99
APPENDIX G .................................................................................................................. 100

MATERIALS ............................................................................................................. 100
G1. General ............................................................................................................. 100
G2. Materials for Fire Hazard Areas........................................................................... 100
G3. Elastomers and plastics ........................................................................................ 101
G4. High Temperature Service .................................................................................... 101
G5. Low Temperature Service...................................................................................... 102
G6. Anhydrous Ammonia Service ................................................................................ 102
G7. Chloride service and Environments....................................................................... 102
G8. Sour service .......................................................................................................... 102
G9. Hydrogen Service ................................................................................................. 103
G10. Wet Co2 and Chlorine Service............................................................................. 103
G11. Material Composition of Welding End Valves..................................................... 103
G12. Plated Components............................................................................................. 104
G13. Ball Valve Components....................................................................................... 104
G14. Gland Packings and Stem Seals .......................................................................... 105
G15. Bolts, Nuts and Screws........................................................................................ 107
TABLE G1 - VALVE BODY AND BONNET/COVER MATERIALS (Part 1of 2) .......... 108
TABLE G2 - TYPICAL APPLICATION OF METALLIC TRIM MATERIALS .............. 110
TABLE G3 -TYPICAL APPLICATION OF NON-METALLIC MATERIALS ................ 111
G16. Material Temperature Limitations ...................................................................... 112
TABLE G4 - BODY AND BONNET/COVER MATERIALS .......................................... 113
TABLE G5 - TRIM MATERIALS................................................................................. 114
G17. Chemical Resistance Charts - Table G6 and 7 .................................................... 115
TABLE G6 - CHARACTERISTICS OF COMMON ELASTOMERS ............................. 115
APPENDIX H .................................................................................................................. 116

SIZING AND RESISTANCE TO FLOW....................................................................... 116
H1. General ............................................................................................................. 116
H2. Incompressible (liquid) Flow ................................................................................ 116
H3. Compressible (Gas or Vapour) Flow..................................................................... 118
H4. Surge ............................................................................................................. 119
TABLE H1 - LOSS COEFFICIENT K ......................................................................... 120
TABLE H2 - K FACTORS FOR AXIAL FLOW CHECK VALVES................................ 121
TABLE H3 - APPROXIMATE WALVE VELOCITIES FOR INSTANTANEOUS
CLOSURE ............................................................................................................. 122
APPENDIX I ................................................................................................................... 123

GLOSSARY OF VALVE TERMINOLOGY............................................................... 123
RP 62-1 PAGE iv
FOREWORD
Introduction to BP Group Recommended Practices and Specifications for Engineering
The Introductory volume contains a series of documents that provide an introduction to the
BP Group Recommended Practices and Specifications for Engineering (RPSEs). In
particular, the ‘General Foreword’ sets out the philosophy of the RPSEs. Other documents in
the Introductory volume provide general guidance on using the RPSEs and background
information to Engineering Standards in BP. There are also recommendations for specific
definitions and requirements.
Value of this Recommended Practice
This BP Group Recommended Practice has been written to collate and disseminate
information on valve selection and application, as an aid to reduce maintenance and
operational problems and costs, in response to the needs of valve users in BP.
The results of a survey of valve experience throughout the BP Group and the findings of an
on-going Valve Testing Programme by BP Research, Sunbury have been used of improve
guidelines for selection of valves.
Application
Text in italics is Commentary. Commentary provides background information which supports

the requirements of this Recommended Practice, and may discuss alternative options. It also
gives guidance on the implementation of any ‘Specification’ or ‘Approval’ actions; specific
actions are indicated by an asterisk (*) preceding a paragraph number.
This document may refer to certain local, national or international regulations but the
responsibility to ensure compliance with legislation and any other statutory requirements lies
with the user. The user should adapt or supplement this document to ensure compliance for
the specific application.
Valves intended for use on BP Chemical Sites or new projects shall follow:-
minimum HSE and environmental requirements for the site and as specified herein; those
specifications which are most appropriate to or have been specifically developed for that site
or business.
Projects associated with existing BP Chemicals sites shall follow local requirements. Projects
for new BP Chemical sites may use the appropriate specification or contractors generated
specifications subject to BP Chemicals approval.
RP 62-1 PAGE v
Principle Changes from Previous Edition
This document is an update of RP 62-1 (April 1992) edition. The foreword and Appendix G
have been modified to fully cover BPC requirements and Appendix G has been updated.
Feedback and Further Information
Users of BP RPSEs are invited to submit any comments and detail experiences in their
application, to assist in their continuous improvement.
For feedback and further information, please contact Standards Group, BP Engineering or the
Custodian. See Status List for contacts.
RP 62-1 PAGE vi
1. SCOPE
1.1 Scope
This Recommended Practice gives guidance on the choice of common

types of isolating (block), check and diverter valves for the petroleum,
petrochemical and associated industries, both at onshore and offshore
locations, including subsea applications. Valves for plants, pipelines
and fire protection systems are included.
The following range is covered:-
(a) Line Size Range ½ in. to 36 in. NPS (DN 15 to
DN 900).
(b) Line Pressure Range 150 lb to 2500 lb class rating to

ANSI B16.5/B16.34 125 lb to
ANSI B16.1 and CL.800 API
(c) Design Temperature Range -196°C to 650°C.
(e) Fluid Range Clean and dirty service

(applications with entrained
solids).
It excludes valve actuators, modulating control valves, safety and relief

valves, choke valves for drilling production, valves for marine, road and
rail tankers and building services.
1.2 Application
1.2.1 Whilst this Code uses the duty to guide the selection of valves, the user
is required to pay particular attention to all aspects of the application
involving process, metallurgical and mechanical considerations.
1.2.2 Section 2 provides a means of determining the most suitable valve type
(or types) for a particular application given basic information about the
service conditions. Information relating to valve types, function,
service characteristics etc. is included in Sections 1 to 5.
Appendices D to F are supplementary commentary that include further

details for those seeking more information.
The following Appendices give advice on:-
Appendix G - Materials
Appendix H - Flow and Resistance
RP 62-1 PAGE 1
2. VALVE SELECTION
2.1 Introduction
Valve selection in this Recommended Practice is made from a

knowledge of:-
(a) Valve function

(b) Service characteristics
The selection of valves requires consideration of the many factors in

addition to the guidelines given in this Practice. Past experience for
particular applications shall always be taken into consideration. Many
of the factors involved can be simplified by an early evaluation of valve
requirements and preparation of procurement specifications that
adequately define particular requirements. This approach can be of
benefit in modifying existing plant; is of considerable importance on
new projects and may be of overriding importance where valve
development is required for special application.
General technical factors that must be taken into account include:-
(a) Weight
(b) Space
(c) Ease of maintenance
There will also be commercial factors which influence valve choice in

most circumstances.
2.2 Valve Function
Typical valve types for various operating functions are given in the
following table. More details of these and other functions are given in
Section 3.
RP 62-1 PAGE 2
VALVE FUNCTION TYPICAL VALVE TYPES
Isolation Gate Valve
Ball Valve
Butterfly Valve
Plug Valve
Diaphragm/Pinch Valve
Globe (Stop) Valve
Flow Diversion Plug Valve
Ball Valve
Globe Valve
Prevention of Flow Reversal Swing Check Valve
Lift Check Valve
Diaphragm Check Valve
Flow/Pressure Control Globe Valve
(not covered by this Practice) Ball Valve (v port)
Plug Valve
Butterfly Valve
Diaphragm/Pinch Valve
2.3 Service Characteristics
Appropriate valve selection is dependent on complete knowledge of the

service characteristics, in particular:-
(a) Fluid Type
The fluid being handled should be classified as liquid; gas; two

phase mixture; steam; slurry or solids.
(b) Fluid Characteristics
The fluid may be attributed with one or more of the following

characteristics: clean, dirty (including abrasives), containing
large, suspended solids, liable to solidification, viscous,
corrosive, flammable, fouling or scaling, of a searching nature.
These characteristics are discussed more fully in Section 4.
(c) Pressure, Temperature Limitations and Chemical Resistance
Valves are normally allocated a rating according to the

maximum operating pressure and temperature or the ratings of
the piping system and flanges. The temperature also limits the
materials used in the valve construction, particularly the
internals, trims, seals, linings or lubricants.
RP 62-1 PAGE 3
Appendix G gives a general guide to the application of metallic and non-
metallic materials. The materials required may vary with the pressure,
temperature, fluid concentration and condition. Metallurgical advice
shall always be sought where doubt exists.
Irrespective of chemical resistance properties, cast iron, copper
alloy or plastic valves shall not be used on hydrocarbon, toxic
or other hazardous service.
(d) Operation and Maintenance Requirements
Operational and maintenance requirements can influence

selection and design. Consideration should be given to:-
Fire resistance.
Operability.
Leak tightness (internal and external).
Maintainability.
Weights and dimensions (construction handling).
Storage and Commissioning.
Location (e.g. seabed valves.)
Pipeline requirements (e.g. ability to pass cleaning pigs).
These requirements are discussed in more detail in Section 5.
2.4 Selection of Valve Types
To assist in the rapid selection of probable valve types for the majority
of general services the following tables may be used:-
Table 1 - Selection of Isolation (Block) Valves - Service

Conditions
Table 2 - Selection of Isolation (Block) Valves - Service
Conditions
Table 3 - Selection of Isolation (Block) Valves - Features
Table 4 - Selection of Isolation (Block) Valves - Available
Materials
Table 5 - Selection of Isolation (Block) Valves - Achievable
Leakage Rates
Table 6 - Selection of Check and Diverter Valves - Service
Conditions
Table 7 - Selection of Check and Diverter Valves - Service
Conditions and Sizes
Table 8 - Selection of Check and Diverter Valves - Available
Materials
These tables are for guidance only and the users shall ascertain that the
service conditions are within the valve manufacturers
recommendations.
RP 62-1 PAGE 4
Tables 1 to 3 and 6 to 7 may be used to obtain a recommendation for a
valve or valves based on the appropriate conditions or required size and
features selected.
Tables 4 and 8 give guidance on materials availability and Table 5

indicates the degree of standard leak tightness to be expected from new
valves.
In some cases the tables will suggest that a variety of valve types are
suitable, the user may consider past experience for the service together
with other factors e.g. if slow or quick opening/closing action is
required (gate or ball valves). Further assistance can be obtained from
more detailed information given elsewhere in this Recommended
Practice.
RP 62-1 PAGE 5
Ball metal
Valve types Wedge gate Parrallel gate seat Ball soft seat Plug taper Plug parallel Diaphragm Globe Butterfly
Concentric, metal disk/seat

Lubricated (balanced plug)
Parallel slide (steam/feed)
Eccentric, metal disk/seat

VALVE DESCRIPTION
Non-lubricated (sleeved)
Parallel double disk gate
Concentric, rubber lined

Trunnion mounted ball
Trunnion Mounted ball

Now I can put this into the
Concentric other lining
Eccentric, rubber lined

Non-lubricated (lined)
cell to mthis is to pad out the
Eccentric, soft seat

Conduit Slab Gate
Conduit split gate
Oblique ('Y' type)

text to get it to wrap into
Expanding plug
Eccentric plug
different positions in the box
Eccentric ball
Eccentric ball
Solid Wedge
Rubber lined
Flexi-wedge
Floating ball
Floating ball
Split-wedge
Lifting plug
Lubricated
Lubricated
and colour it white to cancel
Knife gate
Full bore
Straight
out the readability of it when I
Needle
Angle
Pinch
dont need it there
Weir
Iris
CONDITIONS
Very low resistance required
Resist-
(<3)
X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
Low resistance required ((3-
ance
10)
X X X X X X X A A A A A A
Moderate resistance tolerable
to
(10-30)
X X X
High resistance tolerable
flow
(>30)
Piggable (Yes/No)
N N N N Y N Y N N Y Y Y Y Y Y N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N
Liquid (and two phase)

X B B B X
Gas
X C X X X C C
Fluid Steam
D X X X X X X R R X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X C X X
Slurry
X X X C X X X X C C C C X X C X C X X X X X X X C C
Solids (Powder etc.) X X X C X X X X C C X X X X C C X X X X X X X X X X X C C C C C C
Clean
Dirty (Abrasive)
E E E E X X X E X X X E E E E F F F G G G G H H H I I H
Fluid Large Susp. Solids

X X X X X X X X X X X X E E C X X C X C X X X X X X X X X X X
Con- Solidifying
J J J X X X X X J J C J X X C C X C C C X X C X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
dition Viscous
C C C X X X G G G G
Corrosive
L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L X K K K L L L L L L L L L L L
Flammable
X X X N N N M M M N N N N N M M X X X X X X X X X M
Fouling scaling
X X X X X X X X X X X G G C X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
Searching
P P P X X C C X X X X X P P P P P X X P C C X K K K X P P P P X X X X X P
Notes on Flow Resistance

Valve flow resistances are presented as multiples of the resistance of a plain piece of pipe where this is equivalent to 1 (the figures are
approximate).
Reduced port (venturi) gate and ball valves may have up to twice the flow resistance of full bore valves.
KEY
Suitable
X Not suitable/not recommended
A Some butterfly valves may fall into the “low resistance” category.
B Depends on liquid. Unsuitable for use with solvents etc.
C May be suitable. Consult manufacturer.
D Flexi-wedge more suitable for this service in large sizes.
E May be used subject to nature of fluid. Sharp particles may be trapped in cavities and damage soft seats.
F No information available but unlikely to be suitable.
G Not normally recommended.
H Variable performance. Moderate service life.
I Can perform well. Depends on Manufacture.
J Must be full bore. Steam jacket/trace heating required.
K Must have secondary stem seal.
L Satisfactory subject to appropriate choice of materials. Careful attention should be given to design of internal parts etc.
M Fire tested type required.
N Fire tested or fire resistant gland required. Plug valve sleeves and linings may be resistant to fire but do not provide shut-off capability after
destruction.
P Use bellows sealed versions in smaller sizes where available. Helium leak test and double block and bleed for hydrogen service.
R Only suitable if all plastic/rubber components eliminated.
TABLE 1
SELECTION OF ISOLATION (BLOCK) VALVES (SERVICE CONDITIONS)
RP 62-1 PAGE 6
Valv+B41e types Wedge gate Parrallel gate Ball metal seat Ball soft seat Plug taper Plug parallel Diaphragm Globe Butterfly


VALVE DESCRIPTION




Conduit Slab Gate
Conduit split gate
Oblique ('Y' type)

Expanding plug
Eccentric plug
Eccentric ball
Eccentric ball
Solid Wedge
Rubber lined
Flexi-wedge
Floating ball
Floating ball
Split-wedge
Lifting plug
Lubricated
Lubricated
Knife gate
Full bore
Straight
Needle
Angle
Pinch
dont need it there
Weir
Iris
CONDITIONS
VACUUM
J J J X X J X X X X X X J X J J J X X J J J X X X X X J J J X X K K X K K
LOW < CL.150

B
Press- MED. CL 300/600

X X X X X X
ure HIGH CL. 900/2500

X X C X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
CLASS 800
X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
CRYOGENIC X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
MED/LOW-50 deg C/200 deg
C
A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A
Temp. HIGH 200 deg C/450 deg C

X A A A X A A A X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
<1.5" NS (40DN) X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
E
2" TO 8" NS (50 TO 200DN)
10" TO 16" NS (250 TO
Size 400DN)
X F X F F F F F F F X
> 16" NS (400 DN)

X F X F X X F F X X X X X X X X
BUBBLE TIGHT (GAS) H H H X H H X X X X H G G X X H X X X H H H H X X X
DROP TIGHT (LIQUID)

H H H X H H X H X X G I I I X H H H H X
VERY LOW LEAKAGE
Iso- PERMITTED
X H X X I I I X X
SOME LEAKAGE
H X X
lation PERMITTED (NORMAL
COMMERCIAL STD.)
COURSE ISOLATION ONLY
Notes
The degree of isolation quoted is that which is consistently and readily achievable and can be maintained in service.
It should be noted that most metal seated valves can be produced to achieve a greater degree of leak tightness than that shown in this
table. This will require greater expenditure of time and effort but the degree of isolation thus achieved is likely to be maintained for
longer than that more readily available by use of soft seated valves.
KEY
Suitable/Available/Achievable
X Not suitable/Available/Achievable
A Temperature range may be limited by soft seats/seals/linings etc.
B Relies on differential pressure for seal, poor sealing at very low pressures.
C < 2” NB only
E Not recommended in sizes larger than 2” NB
F Limited size range depending on pressure rating
G May not be achievable at low pressures
H Usually only achievable by soft seated valves
I Leak tightness depends on efficiency of sealant
J Soft seated valves preferred. Consult manufacturer re seat finishing, cleaning. Consider bellows seal. Helium leak test recommended.
K May be suitable - consult manufacturer.
TABLE 2
SELECTION OF ISOLATION (BLOCK) VALVES

(SERVICE CONDITIONS AND SIZES)
RP 62-1 PAGE 7
Ball metal
Valve types Wedge gate Parrallel gate seat Ball soft seat Plug taper Plug parallel Diaphragm Globe Butterfly


VALVE DESCRIPTION




Conduit Slab Gate
Conduit split gate
Oblique ('Y' type)

Expanding plug
Eccentric plug
Eccentric ball
Eccentric ball
Solid Wedge
Rubber lined
Flexi-wedge
Floating ball
Floating ball
Split-wedge
Lifting plug
Lubricated
Lubricated
Knife gate
Full bore
Straight
Needle
Angle
Pinch
Weir
dont need it there
Iris
CONDITIONS
STD STUFFING BOX

X B B B B B A A A A X X X X A A A
Gland O' RINGS

B B B B B B B A X X X A A A A A A B B B X B B A
Pack- POLYMER SEALS

A A A A A X B B B A X X X X C C C C A A A
ing FIRE TESTED

X X X X X X X X X A A X X X X X X X X X X X
EXTENDED BONNET (L.T.)

B A X A A A A X A A A A X X X X X X X X X X X X X X A X
BELLOWS SEAL
C X X X X A A A X X X X C C X X X X X X X X X X X X X C B B C X X X X X X
RUBBER X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
Lin- PTFE
A A A X X X X X X X X X X X X A D A X A A X D D D D X X X X
ings OTHER POLYMERS

B A A X B B B X X X X X B B B X B X X A D X A A X B D B D X X X X
GLASS
X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X A X X X X X X X X X X X X X
KEY
Available
X Not Available/Applicable
A Not normally available
B Limited availability
C Available sizes may be limited.
D Not known
TABLE 3

(FEATURES)
RP 62-1 PAGE 8
Valve types Wedge gate Parrallel gate Ball metal seat Ball soft seat Plug taper Plug parallel Diaphragm Globe Butterfly

VALVE DESCRIPTION




Conduit Slab Gate
Conduit split gate
Oblique ('Y' type)

Expanding plug
Eccentric plug
Eccentric ball
Eccentric ball
Solid Wedge
Rubber lined
Flexi-wedge
Floating ball
Floating ball
Split-wedge
Lifting plug
Lubricated
Lubricated
Knife gate
Full bore
Straight
Needle
Angle
Pinch
dont need it there
Weir
Iris
CONDITIONS
CARBON STEEL B B
CHROME MOLY STEEL X A A X A A A X X X X X A A A A A A X X X X B X X B X X
AUST. STAINLESS STEEL X B B B X B X A X X X
Body, NICKEL ALLOYS

B B A X B B B X A A B B B A A A A B B B B A A B X A
Bon- ALUMINIUM BRONZE

B B A X A A A X A X X A B B A A A A A A A A A A A A A C C C C B X X B X B
net BRONZE/GUNMETAL
A X A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A B X X B X X
etc. ALUMINIUM
B A A X A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A C C C C B X X B X X
CAST IRON A X A A A B A A A A A D
PVC B X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X B D D D D D D X X X X
CUPRO-NICKEL A X A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A C C C C B X X B X X
GLASS X X X X X X X X X X X X A X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
13%Cr, (410) S.S. A A A A A X X X A A A A A A A X X X X A A A A A A
13%Cr, Nl FACED A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A X X X X B B B B A A A A A A
13% Cr, HARD FACED X A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A X X X X B B B B A A A A A
AUSTENITIC S.S. A A A A A A A A A A X X X X
Trim AUST.S.S. HARD FACED

A B B B A A A A A A A A X X X X A A A A A
C.S. HARD FACED A A X A A A A A A X X X X X X X X X X X X B B X X X X X X X X
MONEL/INCONEL A A A A A A A A A A A A A A X X X X B B B B B B B B
CHROME PLATED A A A A B B B A B A A A A A A A B A B A A A A B B B B B
ENP
A A A A B B A B A A A X X A X X X X A A A A A A A
CAST IRON
A A A A A A A A A A A A A X X X X A A
BRONZE
A A A A A A A A A A B A A A C A A B B X X X X B B B
KEY:
Available
X Not available
C Available sizes may be limited
D Not Known
EXAMPLES OF CARBON & ALLOY STEEL EXAMPLES OF CORROSION RESISTANT ALLOYS AVAILABLE
AVAILABLE
Carbon Steel Alloy Description

Carbon Steel (low temperature) 18 Cr - 10 Ni 304 Austenitic Stainless Steel
Carbon/molybdenum steel 18 Cr - 10 Ni - 2 Mo 316 Austenitic Stainless
Steel
1¼ Cr - ½Mo Ni - Cr - Fe Inconel
2¼ - 1 Mo Ni - Cu Monel
3 Cr - 1 Mo Ni - Cu Hastelloy B
5 Cr - ½Mo Ni - Mo - Cr Hastelloy C
9 Cr - 1 Mo
2 Ni
3½ Ni
Other materials (eg. duplex s.s., titanium) may be available to special order.
For acid and other non-fibre hazardous, non-hydrocarbon services, plastic or rubber lined valves may be considered.
Note that, in some cases, valve trim may consist of a combination of several materials.
For information on application of materials see supplement.
TABLE 4
(AVAILABLE MATERIALS)
RP 62-1 PAGE 9
Valve types Wedge gate Parrallel gate Ball metal seat Ball soft seat Plug taper Plug parallel Diaphragm Globe Butterfly




VALVE DESCRIPTION

Conduit Slab Gate
Conduit split gate
Oblique ('Y' type)

Now I can put this into the cell to
Expanding plug
Eccentric plug
mthis is to pad out the text to get it
Eccentric ball
Eccentric ball
Rubber lined
Solid Wedge
Flexi-wedge
Floating ball
Floating ball
Split-wedge
Lifting plug
Lubricated
Lubricated
to wrap into different positions in
Knife gate
Full bore
Straight
the box and colour it white to cancel
Needle
Angle
Pinch
out the readability of it when I dont
Weir
Iris
need it there CONDITIONS
ISO 5208 RATE 3 B B B X B B X B X X A F F A E B B B B E X X
ISO 5208 RATE 2 X B X X F F F E E
ISO 5208 RATE 1 B E E
Liquid API 598

C C C C C C C B D D D A C E C C C C E X D
MSS-SP-61
B E E
BS6755 PART 1 RATE C

B X F F F E E
ISO 5208 RATE 3

B B B X B B X X X X B A A X X B X X E B B B B E X X
ISO 5208 RATE 2 B B B X B B X X X X A X X B X X E B B B B E X X
Gas ISO 5208 RATE 1

X X E E
API 598 B B B X B B X X D D D A X X B X X E B B B B E X D
MSS-SP-61 X X E E
BS6755 PART 1 RATE C X X A A F F F X E E X X
KEY
Consistently achievable
X Not normally achievable
Note: By expenditure of sufficient time and effort, it is usually possible to achieve a high degree of eat leak tightness with most types of
valve. In general, however, it is not good practise to specify leakage rates which are unnecessarily stringent compared to actual
process requirements.
A May not be achievable at low pressures.
B Usually only achievable by soft seated valves.
C Valves 2” NB and less may need to be soft seated.
D Leak rates are determined by agreement with the purchaser.
E Valve not intended for tight shut-off on liquid or gas service.
F Leak tightness depends on efficiency of sealant.
LEAKAGE RATES (ml/min/mm DN)

ISO 5208 Rate 1
Test Medium ISO 5208 Rate 3 ISO 5208 Rate 2 BS 6755 Pt 1 Rate C BS 6755 Pt 1 Rate D
BS6755 Pt 1 Rate A BS 6755 Pt 1 Rate B MSS-SP-61
No visually detectable
Liquid leakage for the duration 0.0006 0.0018 0.006
of the test.
No visually detectable
Gas leakage for the duration 0.018 0.18 1.8
of the test
- API 598 leakage rates are not directly comparable but the following may be used as a guide.
- For soft seated valves, leakage rate corresponds to ISO 5208 Rate 3.
- For metal seated gate, globe and plug valves liquid leakage rate approximately corresponds to ISO 5208 Rate 3 for valves ≤2”
NB, ISO 5208 Rate 1 for sizes between 2” and 12” NB and is between BS 6755 Rate C and ISO 5208 Rate 2 for valves ≤ 14”
NB, Gas leakage rate is approximately half that of ISO 5208 Rate 2.
- For Metal seated ball and butterfly valves leakage rates are by agreement with the purchaser.
Note: A leakage rate of one drop of liquid corresponds to 0.0625 ml.

A leakage rate of one bubble (from ¼” dia. tube) corresponds to 0.15ml. (ANSI B16 104).
TABLE 5

(ACHIEVABLE LEAKAGE RATES)
RP 62-1 PAGE 10
Check Valves
Valve Types Lift Swing Other Diverter Valves
3 & 4 Way Taper Plug (Lubricated)
4 Way Expanding Plug (Parallel)

3 & 4 Way Taper Plug (Sleeved)
Screw-down Stop & Check
Dual-Disk - Spring Loaded
4 Way Lifting Plug (Taper)
3 Way Ball (Metal seated)

Swing - Standard Pattern
Lift Type - Angle Pattern
Lift Type with Dash Pot
Piston (Spring Loaded)
Swing - Spring Loaded

Plate (Spring Loaded)
Swing with Long Arm

Ball (Spring Loaded)
Axial Flow anti-slam

VALVE DESCRIPTION
3 Way Globe Valve

Wafer Pattern
Piston (Axial)
Foot Valves
Tilting Dish
Diaphragm
Disk
Ball
LOW RESISTANCE REQD (<30)

X X X X X X X X X X X X X
MODERATE RESISTANCE
Resis- TOLERABLE (20-50)
X X X X X X X X
HIGH RESISTANCE TOLERABLE
tance (<50)
flow PIGGABLE
X X X X X X X X A A X X A X X X X X X X X X X X
LIQUID (AND TWO PHASE)

J
GAS
X X X
Fluid STEAM
X X X X X X X
SLURRY
X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X C X X
SOLIDS (POWDER ETC.)

X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X C X X X X
CLEAN
DIRTY (ABRASIVE)
B B X B X X X B B B B B B B X X K K C C P
LARGE SUSP. SOLIDS

X X X X X X X X C C X X C X X X X D C X X X
Fluid SOLIDIFYING
F X X F X X X F F F F X F F E X X X X C C X X
Con- VISCOUS
F F F X F F F F F F F F F F F F P
dition CORROSIVE
G G G G G G G G G G G G G G G G G G L L L L L L
FLAMMABLE
H H H H H H H H H H H H H H X H H X M M M M M M
FOULING/SCALING
E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E X C X X
SEARCHING
I I I I I X I I I I I I I I X I X N X N N X N
Notes on Flow Resistance

Valve flow resistances are presented as multiples of the resistance of a plain piece of pipe where this is equivalent to 1 (the figures are approximate).
There are no designs of check valve offering the very low flow resistance of ball and gate valves. If minimum flow resistance is the dominating criterion of selection, the axial flow, anti-
slam valve should be chosen.
KEY
Suitable
X Not suitable/not recommended

A Can be pigged provided valves specially designed.
B Hard particles may prevent complete closure of valve. Valves not in fully open position may suffer wear of hinge pins etc.
C Consult manufacturer. Seats may suffer damage and sealing ability may be impaired.
D Depends on type
E Check valves not really suitable for this service and likely to give poor performance.
F Consult manufacturer. Steam jacketing/trace heating may be required. Valves without spring assistance likely to be sluggish in operation.
G Satisfactory subject to appropriate choice of materials. Careful attention should be given to design of springs and other internal parts.
H Valves incorporating soft sealing components may need to be fire tested.
I Some leakage likely, even with soft seat materials. Helium leak test for hydrogen service.
J Depends on liquid. Unsuitable for use with solvents etc.
K May be used subject to nature of fluid. Sharp particles may be trapped in cavities and damage soft seats.
L Satisfactory subject to appropriate choice of materials. Careful attention should be given to design of internal parts etc.
M Fire tested or fire resistant gland required.
TABLE 6
SELECTION OF CHECK AND DIVERTER VALVES

(SERVICE CONDITIONS)
RP 62-1 PAGE 11
C hec k Va lves
Va lve Typ es Lift Sw ing Other Diverter va lves
3 x 4 WAY TAPER PLUG ( LUBRICATED )
4 WAY EXPANDING PLUG ( PARALLEL )

3 x 4 WAY TAPER PLUG ( SLEEVED )
3 WAY BALL ( METAL SEATED )

4 WAY LIFTING PLUG ( TAPER )
DUAL-DISK - SPRING LOADED
SCREW-DOWN STOP & CHECK

SWING-STANDARD PATTERN
LIFT TYPE-ANGLE PATTERN
PISTON ( SPRING LOADED )
LIFT TYPE WITH DASH POT

PLATE ( SPRING LOADED )
BALL ( SPRING LOADED )
AXIAL FLOW ANTI-SLAM

SWING WITH LONG ARM
SWING-SPRING LOADED
3 WAY GLOBE VALVE

VALVE DESCRIPTION
WAFER PATTERN
PISTON ( AXIAL )
FOOT VALVES
TILTING DISK
DIAPHRAM
BALL
DISK
X X X B B B X X X X X X X B X X B B X X B B X B
VACUUM
LOW < CL.150
X X G G X
Press- MED. CL 300/600
ure C D C C C C D X X C X X X G X D
HIGH CL. 900/2500
X X E X E X X X X X X X X X X X X
CLASS 800
F F F X X X F F X F X F X X X X X X X X X E
CRYOGENIC <-50 deg C
A
MED/LOW -50 deg C/200 deg C
X X X X X X B
Temp. HIGH 200 deg C/450 deg C
X X X X X X X X X X X E
<1.5" NS (40DN)
D D
2" TO 8" NS (50 TO 200DN)
G X E X E G D D E X X G E D
Size 10" TO 16" NS (250 TO 400DN)
X X X X X X X X G X D X X X X E
> 16" NS (400 DN)
H H H H H H H H X X X X X H X H H X X X A
BUBBLE TIGHT (GAS)
H H H H H H H H X X X X X H X H H K X H
DROP TIGHT (LIQUID)
VERY LOW LEAKAGE
Iso- I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I K X
PERMITTED
SOME LEAKAGE PERMITTED
lation (NORMAL
COMMERCIAL STD.)
COURSE ISOLATION ONLY
X X X J X X X X X X
PULSATING FLOW
Oper- X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
UNSTABLE FLOW
X X X X
ration SUDDEN FLOW
SUDDEN FLOW REVERSAL

X X X X X X X X X
TABLE 7
DIAPHRAGM VALVES
TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION
RP 62-1 PAGE 12
KEY
Suitable/Available/Achievable
X Not suitable/Available/Achievable
A Temperature range may be limited by soft seats/seals/linings etc.
B Soft seated valves only. Few check valves are suitable for sealing against vacuum. Helium leak test recommended.
C Small size only
D Limited availability
E Not normally available
F Consult manufacturer. Special design required
G Limited pressure rating
H Usually only achievable by soft seated valves
I May not be achievable at low pressures except by soft seated valves. Even at higher pressures, metal seated valves are
likely to require special effort to achieve this.
J Compressor discharge valves only.
K Leak tightness depends on efficiency of sealant
TABLE 7
DIAPHRAGM VALVES
RP 62-1 PAGE 13
C hec k Va lves
Va lve Typ es Lift Sw ing Other Diverter va lves
3 x 4 WAY TAPER PLUG ( LUBRICATED )
4 WAY EXPANDING PLUG ( PARALLEL )

3 x 4 WAY TAPER PLUG ( SLEEVED )
3 WAY BALL ( METAL SEATED )

4 WAY LIFTING PLUG ( TAPER )
SCREW-DOWN STOP & CHECK
DUAL DISK -SPRING LOADED
SWING-STANDARD PATTERN
LIFT TYPE-ANGLE PATTERN
PISTON ( SPRING LOADED )
LIFT TYPE WITH DASH POT

PLATE ( SPRING LOADED )
BALL ( SPRING LOADED )
AXIAL FLOW ANTI-SLAM

SWING WITH LONG ARM
SWING-SPRING LOADED
3 WAY GLOBE VALVE

VALVE DESCRIPTION
WAFER PATTERN
PISTON ( AXIAL )
FOOT VALVES
TILTING DISK
DIAPHRAM
BALL
DISK
B B
CARBON STEEL
A A A A A A A X X X X X X X B
CHROME MOLYSTEEL
A A A A
AUST. STAINLESS STEEL
X B B X A A A A A B A A X B X X B X A A A B
Body, NICKEL ALLOYS
X A A X A X A A X B X X X X X A A X X A B
b on- ALUMINIUM BRONZE
ne t, BRONZE / GUNMETAL
X X A A X A A X B X A X X X X
Etc C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C A X X X X A
ALUMINIUM
X A X X X X B X X X X X X
CAST IRON
X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X C
P.V.C
CUPRO-NICKEL
X C X X C X C C X B X X X B X X X X A A A A B
X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X C
GLASS
X X X X X X X X
13 % Cr ( 410 ) S.S
A
AUST. STAINLESS STEEL
B A X A X
HARD FACED
X B B X X A A A B A A X B X B B X
Trim MONEL / INCONEL
X A A X A X A A X B X X X X X
ALUMINIUM BRONZE
X X A X X A A X B X X
BRONZE / GUNMETAL
X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
RUBBER
X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
Lin- PTFE
X X X X X X X X X X X X X
ings OTHER POLYMERS
GLASS
X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
KEY:
Available
X Not available / not applicable
C Not known
TABLE 8
SELECTION OF CHECK AND DIVERTER VALVES
(AVAILABLE MATERIALS)
RP 62-1 PAGE 14
3. VALVE TYPES, FUNCTION AND APPLICATIONS (GENERAL)
3.1 Valve Function
3.1.1 The configuration of the flow path through a valve and the method
used to control flow determine a valve’s characteristics and influence
the selection of a type of valve for a particular function.
3.1.2 The method of flow control can be important in valve selection,

especially when considering valves for block functions with dirty fluids.
3.1.3 Valves may be grouped according to the method by which the closure
member (gate, ball, disc, plug or piston) moves to open or close the
valve. The movement relative to the valve seat may be sliding, closing
or flexing and the path of travel may be linear or rotary. Valves are
often described as linear action (or multiple turn if screw operated) and
rotary action (or more commonly quarter turn).
3.1.4 The different methods of flow regulation are as follows:-
(a) Sliding Method
The closure member slides across the valve seat face to open or
close the valve.
Linear action valves using the sliding method are parallel gate
valves.
Rotary action valves that use this method are ball valves and
plug valves which have the additional feature of rotating about a
central axis normal to the flow path through the valve.
(b) Closing Method
The closure member moves away from or towards the valve

seat to open or close the valve by moving either against the seat
face or by projecting into the seat orifice.
Linear action valves using the closing method are globe valves.
Valves of the lift check type also use this method, e.g. ball
check, disc check and piston check valves.
Note that most safety and relief valves use this method.
Rotary action valves using the closing method are butterfly

valves. Check valves of the swing check type (flapper and split
(double) disk) and tilting disc type also use this method.
RP 62-1 PAGE 15
(c) Flexing Method
The method of opening or closing the valve is by flexing a

resilient membrane within the valve body.
Linear action valves using this method include diaphragm and

pinch valves. The closure member is external to the fluid flow
and may be mechanical or fluid operated. Check valves of the
diaphragm type also use this method.
Rotary action valves using this method are sometimes found but
are relatively uncommon. Iris valves in which a flexible
membrane of tubular shape is rotated into a conical shape for
closure are an example.
3.1.5 Combinations of these methods and linear/rotary action are not

uncommon. The widely used wedge gate valve is an example of a
linear action valve which appears to employ the sliding method but
actually uses the closing method to wedge the gate into the tapered
seats. The lifting taper plug is an example of combined linear/rotary
action.
3.2 Valve Types for Isolation (Block) Duty
3.2.1 Block valves for starting and stopping flow are generally selected to
provide:-
(a) Low resistance (pressure drop) to flow by means of a straight

through flow configuration which also facilitates line clearing.
(b) Shut off with the flow or pressure from either direction, i.e. bi-
directional sealing.
3.2.2 Block valves are the most widely used valve type. Operation is
normally by manual intervention either directly or indirectly, e.g.
powered actuators.
Many types of valves are used and include:-
Gate valves - Wedge/Parallel Gate (most common)

Ball valves - Floating, Trunnion
Butterfly valves - ‘High Performance’/Rubber Lined
Plug valves - Taper/Parallel, Lubricated,
Non-Lubricated, Lined
Diaphragm valves - Weir/Full Flow, Pinch
Globe valves - Straight/Angle/Oblique/Needle/Piston/
Stop and Check (least common)
RP 62-1 PAGE 16
Further information on these valve types may be found in Appendices D & F.
3.3 Valve Types for Prevention of Flow Reversal (Check)
3.3.1 Check valves are required to permit forward flow and prevent reverse
flow. This is achieved through linear or rotary (angular) motion of a
closure member which, with forward flow is kept open by flowing fluid
pressure. When the flow is reduced towards zero or reversed the
closure member is closed against its seat by forces due to its weight,
supplementary springs and back pressure.
* 3.3.2 Common types of lift check are ball, piston and disk and body styles
may include globe type, angle pattern and in-line. Swing check valve
types most commonly met with are standard pattern, tilting disk and
spring loaded dual disk.
In addition, there are several special designs deriving from the basic
types e.g. the axial flow, ‘anti-slam’ valve and the screw-down stop
check.
3.3.3 A position indicator mechanism is not usual and may be incorporated

only on swing check valves and dual plate wafer type check valves.
3.3.4 Only swing type check valves are suitable for pigging, and then only to
special design.
3.3.5 Many types of valves are used and include:-
Lift Check - normally small disk, piston and ball types

Swing Check - Normally 2 NPS and above, swing disk
Diaphragm Check - Utilises flexible diaphragm
Piston Type - Normally 2 NPS and below
Screw-Down Stop and Check - Globe and swing types with provision
for manual closure
Wafer Check Valve - A narrow valve style for installation between
flanges
Spring Operated Non-Slam Check Valve - Axial flow type for pulsating
flow
Foot Valves - Pump suction valves
Further information on these valve types may be found in Appendices E & F.
RP 62-1 PAGE 17
3.4 Valves for Special Applications
3.4.1 General
(a) The use of high temperature packings (e.g. carbon/graphites or

similar) or other special packing materials may be required. In
this case, the use of martensitic stainless steel (e.g. 13% Cr)
valve stems should be avoided. If this is not possible, inhibited
packing should be used.
* (b) Soft seated valves (e.g. ball, plug and butterfly valves) used in
hazardous areas where they could be subjected to fire shall be
of a fire tested design or approved by BP. Metal seated valves
may require a ‘fire safe’ gland (e.g. a carbon gland packing) and
fire resistant joint gaskets.
(c) For particularly hazardous service or high pressure (class 1500

and above) additional volumetric and surface examination tests
may be specified for the pressure retaining boundary. ANSI
B16.34 provides guidance on the areas which should be
considered and EEMUA Publication 167 specifies quality levels
for steel valve castings.
(d) Electrical isolation of valve flanges may be necessary when

mating with valves or flanges of dissimilar materials. Similarly
electrical continuity and earthing may be required in fully lined
piping systems where static discharge may be a problem,
particularly where gasses are flowing at high velocities
(especially when liquid droplets and solid particles are present)
or with low conductivity liquids.
(e) Services such as oxygen, cryogenic and other special process

applications may require valves to be thoroughly degreased,
cleaned and assembled in a ‘clean room’.
* (f) Valves required for searching duties (e.g. hydrogen) may be

subject to a helium leak test, or to a test using a mixture of air
or nitrogen plus helium, to prove a high degree of leak
tightness. Details of the test shall be subject to agreement with
the valve manufacturer and approval by BP.
(g) Materials for valves for sour and/or chloride service shall
comply with NACE Std MR-01-75 and BP Group GS 136-1.
(h) Wellhead equipment should comply with BP Group GS 162-5

and 162-6.
RP 62-1 PAGE 18
* (i) Valves for services such as sulphur and applications where the
fluid may solidify may require steam jacketing, or trace heating.
The details of such arrangements shall be subject to approval by
BP.
3.4.2 Bellows Sealed Valve
A valve specified for applications where escape of fluid to the

atmosphere is undesirable for health, safety or economic reasons. A
bellows provides the primary sealing of the stem during opening and
closing, a gland may be provided for secondary sealing in some designs.
The bellows is housed in an extended bonnet (see Fig H7) which may
be welded or bolted to the valve body.
Bellows are normally used in linear action valves of the gate and globe
design size 6 in. and smaller, but are also used in special ball valve
designs.
3.4.3 Cryogenic Service
Valves for cryogenic applications (below -50°C) should comply with

BS 6364 and, unless otherwise approved by BP, be provided with
extended glands.
Valves normally employed are gate, globe, ball or butterfly types

manufactured in stainless steel, monel, bronze or cupro-nickel.
The extended bonnet allows a reasonable temperature gradient up to

the gland and point of operation. The extended stem includes a column
within which a liquefied gas may reach a vaporising temperature. The
column should provide means of venting any excess pressure build up,
should this be necessary.
Leakage rates normally acceptable in conventional application are not

acceptable for cryogenic service where leakage could freeze affecting
the plant balance. Stem leakage may result in stem seizure and packing
failure.
Seats and seals are normally manufactured in KEL-F, PTFE and similar
materials and need careful selection for temperatures below -65ºC.
Ball valves with soft seats or other valves having a closed body cavity
may require facilities for relieving overpressure caused by thermal
expansion of fluids.
Valves should normally be installed with stems vertical or at 45 degrees

to the vertical to maintain a low conductivity vapour lock in the bonnet.
RP 62-1 PAGE 19
High energy shocks may occur in liquid oxygen systems dislodging
debris from valve seats. Material should be chosen to eliminate fire
risk. Stainless steel materials usually acceptable for oxygen service may
not be suitable. Bronze or monel body and trim materials are
recommended to prevent a spark occurring during high energy
mechanical impact.
All valves for cryogenic service should be cleaned to a high standard

and free of moisture and grease.
Cryogenic liquids are generally non-lubricating and therefore galling

may occur between relatively soft metal mating parts. Bronze stem
bushing, KEL-F, PTFE or hard seats, special coatings and solid film
lubricants are recommended to prevent this.
Guidance on valves which are subject to sub-zero, but not cryogenic,

conditions is provided in EEMUA Publication 192.
3.4.4 Vacuum Service
For vacuum service soft seated valves may be specified, including high
performance butterfly valves. For extremely high vacuum metal to
metal closing mechanisms may be required.
Valve stems shall be truly round and parallel and have a smooth finish
of 0.4 micrometers or better. Similar attention needs to be given to the
stuffing box bore.
Valve packing shall be suitable for 25 mm Hg absolute pressure.
Bellows stem seals may be specified provided the cycle life is

compatible with the application. Secondary packing should be
specified in such cases.
3.4.5 Deluge Valves
These valves are used on firewater deluge service. Proprietary deluge

valves are preferred to process control valves for this service because:-
(a) They operate virtually instantaneously. A process control valve

can require several seconds to operate.
(b) They fail safe despite damage to the pneumatic detection or

actuation system. This may not be true in the case of process
control valves.
RP 62-1 PAGE 20
(c) Process control valves are liable to seize when they stand
inactive for extended periods of time as in deluge service.
Proprietary deluge valves are designed to avoid this problem.
(d) For any given line size, the deluge valve saves space and weight
when compared with actuated process valves.
3.4.6 Excess Flow Valves
Excess flow valves are designed to close automatically when the flow
through them exceeds the specified rate. They may be installed where
fluid leakage through a defect in the line would cause serious damage.
They incorporate a spring-loaded valve disk which will only close when
the forward flow of fluid through the valve generates sufficient force,
or differential pressure, to overcome the power of the spring holding it
open. Each valve has a closing rate in GPM or CFH.
Each excess flow valve is designed for a specific flow rate. The effect
of piping, fittings and valves downstream of the valve must be taken
into account when evaluating flow. The valve should be installed as
near as possible to the protected cylinder or tank.
Valves should be selected with a closing flow rate of at least 10% to

15% greater than the anticipated normal flow. Valves having a rated
closing flow near the normal flow may chatter or slug closed when
surges in the line occur during normal operation, or due to the rapid
opening of a control or quarter turn valve.
The closure speed of larger sized valves may be reduced by the addition
of a dashpot which utilises the working fluid. This is recommended
only on large liquid lines, to avoid shock associated with sudden
closure.
A downstream break in piping or hoses may not provide sufficient flow

to close the valve. Therefore, as an alternative, supply lines may be
fitted with a remote operated shut-off valve, operable from a number of
points located at some distance from the line, such that access to at
least one point is possible irrespective of wind direction and prevailing
conditions.
RP 62-1 PAGE 21
3.4.7 Float Operated Valves
Float operated valves are used for liquid level control in non-
pressurised containers. Valves may be to BS 1212 Parts 1, 2, 3 or to
manufacturer’s standards.
Valves to BS 1212 are small bore, sizes 3/8 in. to 2 in. NB, with
threaded male end, specified with an orifice sized to accommodate
various conditions of the pressure and flow. To enable the correct
orifice size to be determined, the computed flow through each orifice at
given heads is tabulated in Part 1. Available orifice sizes are:-
(a) Part 1: 1/8 in. - 1 ¼ in.

(b) Parts 2 & 3: 1/8 in. - 3/8 in.
Valves to BS 1212 Parts 2 and 3 have the outlet positioned above the
body, rather than below as in Part 1, enabling the attachment of a
discharge assembly to prevent back siphonage of the fluid.
Valves to manufacturer’s standards range from the small threaded valve

in the sizes covered by BS 1212, to flanged valves up to 18 in. NB,
pressure balanced to equalise the hydraulic forces on the moving
element and giving greater sensitivity to changes in water level
throughout the inlet pressure range.
Valves to manufacturer’s standard may be either in-line or angle type.

Designs are available for high pressure applications, having a streamline
flow pattern which provides smooth handling of high velocities,
minimising vibration, erosion and noise.
Surface turbulence, for instance in a break tank, can cause oscillatory

action of the valve. This may be prevented by installing a separate float
tank, or baffle plate.
This type of valve should always be backed up by some independent

means of overfilling, because of the valves low reliability even on low
hazard duties.
* 3.4.8 Flush Bottom Outlet Valves
A flush bottom valve is a ‘Y’ pattern valve which controls the flow of
liquid or slurry from the bottom of a vessel to a valve discharge angled
at 45 degrees to the vertical and is generally to manufacturer’s
standards.
RP 62-1 PAGE 22
The valve may have a disk and seat, or be of seatless design with a
piston, plunger or mushroom type disk. It may be selected for either
flush bottom or penetrating operation.
A flush bottom valve allows removal of precipitate which may have

bridged the vessel outlet and, when fitted to a dished end, allows
complete draining of the vessel.
When heavy sediment may be deposited in the vessel, a piston or

plunger type valve should be selected. On closing, the piston
penetrates the deposit, allowing the vessel to drain when the valve is
next opened.
Since the seat in a disk type valve is part of the vessel outlet nozzle, the
valve must be provided before the vessel is fabricated. Disk type valves
may not seat properly when used with liquids containing solids in
suspension.
The valve requires a considerable vertical distance under the vessel

bottom for installation and operation. Operation may be manual or
remotely controlled.
A variation of the piston design is used for sampling.

3.4.9 Iris Valve
A valve in which the closure member moves towards the valve bore,
mainly used for controlling powder media. There are several designs:-
(i) A flexible cylinder is rotated at one end, closure being effected

by closing of the neck midway along the cylinder.
(ii) The closure member is in the form of flat petals hinged and
rotated to close (like a camera diaphragm).
(iii) The petals are curved like a cone and hinged to close together;
this design is used for quick shut off on hydraulic systems where
leakage is allowable.
3.4.10 Rotary Valve
A valve consisting of a spindle or hub to which several blades are

attached, the whole being housed in a fabricated or cast body. Rotation
of the spindle causes a measured quantity of product (power or pellet)
to be transferred from storage vessels to conveying lines. Valves are
usually motorised and are not intended to be liquid or gas tight. A
specialised design of ball valve is also used for this duty.
RP 62-1 PAGE 23
3.4.11 Emergency Shutdown Applications
Valves intended for ESD service must achieve the highest degree of
reliability and integrity and are usually affected by legislation. In the
case of offshore applications the Certifying Authority should be
involved at all stages of the procurement process and specialist
assistance should be sought. Subsea isolation valves (SSIV) are
covered by a separate Recommended Practice which is supplementary
to this document.
4. SERVICE CHARACTERISTICS
4.1 Fluid Characteristics, General
4.1.1 The characteristics and condition of fluids and slurries require careful
identification since these are often the most significant factors in
selecting the correct type of valve. Clean fluids generally permit a wide
choice of valve types, for dirty fluids the choice is often restricted and
may require specific types of valves. A fluids characteristics may fit
one or more of categories of service.
4.1.2 The hazardous nature of the service, its flammability, toxicity and
searching nature requires consideration to be given to the engineering
requirements, e.g. leakage to atmosphere and past valve seats.
4.2 Clean Service
4.2.1 Clean service is a term used to identify fluids free from solids or free
from contaminants to meet product quality requirements. Some fluids
may require a special high degree of cleanliness such as oxygen service
where thorough degreasing is necessary, assembly in a clean room and
special attention given to packing.
4.2.2 A number of fluids are normally defined as ‘clean’, these include

instrument air, nitrogen, potable water, potable and treated
(demineralised) water, steam, lube oil, diesel oil and many chemicals
including dosing chemicals used for injection into fluids systems for
which there are no special clean requirements. Valves for fluids such as
oxygen, hydrogen peroxide and sometimes treated water or lube oil
require special attention to cleanliness of the valve. Valves for potable
water must meet water board regulations.
4.2.3 Fluids that are subject to processing may also be defined as clean
subject to the consideration of conditions at each stage of processing.
RP 62-1 PAGE 24
4.2.4 Clean services are generally less damaging to valves resulting in long
term performance and reliability. Selection from a range of valve types
may be possible for some applications allowing greater freedom of
choice.
4.2.5 If the fluid service is basically clean, attention should be given to

protecting valves selected for clean service. During construction this
may require the removal of valves until the piping system is clean, i.e.
after flushing, pigging and drying.
4.3 Dirty Service
4.3.1 Dirty service is a general term used to identify fluids with suspended
solids that may seriously impair the performance of valves unless the
correct type design is selected. This type of service is often of major
significance since many valves are very sensitive to the presence of
solids. Dirty service may be further classified as abrasive or sandy.
4.4 Abrasive Service
4.4.1 Abrasive service is a term used to identify the presence of abrasive

particulate found in piping systems and includes the presence pipe rust,
scale, welding slag, sand and grit which are damaging to many valves.
These materials can damage seating surfaces and clog working
clearances in valves often resulting in excessive force required to
operate valves, sticking, jamming and leakage through the valve. Such
damage may be caused by particulate for quite low concentrations and
of small size, typically 10 microns.
Abrasive conditions are commonly found during construction,

continuing into production. Valves can be irreversibly damaged
requiring early overhaul, unless adequate steps are taken to prevent
damage.
4.4.2 Where abrasive conditions continue for indeterminate period during

production, a valve suitable for dirty services should be selected.
Typical conditions include naturally occurring particulate in the process
fluid e.g. sand from production wells, corrosion products from pipe
surfaces which could be caused by the change in the nature of the fluid
or the injection of dosing chemical during service, or the release of pipe
scale following drying out of piping system as in gas systems.
4.5 Sandy Service
4.5.1 Sandy service is a term identifying severe abrasive and erosive

conditions and is used in oilfield production to identify the production
of formation sand with reservoir crude oil or gas.
RP 62-1 PAGE 25
4.5.2 Valves for this service are often required to have their performance
qualified by means of the sand slurry test specified in API 14D.
4.6 Fouling Service
4.6.1 Fouling or scaling services are general terms used to identify liquids or
elements of liquids that form a deposit on surfaces. Such deposits may
vary widely in nature, with varying hardness, strength of adhesion and
rates of build up. Valves for these services require careful selection
particularly where thick, hard, strongly adhesive coatings occur. The
temperature of the fluid may be a vital factor and in some cases valves
may need tracing or be steam jacketed or of purged design.
4.7 Slurry Services
4.7.1 Slurry service is a general term used to define liquids with substantial
solids in suspension. often the product is the solid and the fluid is
primarily the means of transportation, e.g. coal slurries and catalyst
services. Slurries vary widely in nature and concentration of solids.
hard abrasive solids of high concentration can cause severe abrasion,
erosion and clogging of components. Soft, non-abrasive solids can
cause clogging of components. Differential expansion at elevated
temperatures also requires careful consideration in valve designs for
slurry services. In certain chemical processes polymerization may block
the cavities preventing valve operation.
4.8 Solids
4.8.1 There are many other conditions where solids may be present in the
form of hard granules, crystals, soft fibres or powders. The
transporting media may be liquid or gas. Air or fluidised bed systems
may be used for some particulates. Specialised valves are available for
many of these services but development work may sometimes be
necessary.
4.9 Hazardous Service
* 4.9.1 Where the term ‘hazardous service’ is used in this document, this will
be defined by BP for each specific case but will always include the
following:-
(a) Liquids above their auto-ignition temperature (AIT), or 210º if

the AIT is not known.
RP 62-1 PAGE 26
(b) Flammable liquids flashing on leakage to form a substantial
vapour cloud. This shall include LPG, LNG and NGL
condensate and others where specified by BP.
(c) Fluids liable to cause a hazard by blockage due to hydrate

formation or solids deposition.
(d) Toxic substances, but only as specified by BP (e.g. chlorine,

hydrofluoric acid, hydrogen sulphide, C0, phenol etc.).
(e) Hydrogen service - defined as service in contact with hydrogen

or gaseous mixtures containing hydrogen in which the partial
pressure of hydrogen is 5 bar (abs), (72.5 psia) or more.
(f) Flammable fluids at class 900 flange rating and above.
(g) Highly corrosive fluids such as acids and caustic alkalis to be

defined by BP.
(h) Scalding fluids e.g. hot boiler feed water, steam above Class
300.
4.10 Flammable Service
4.10.1 Fluids with an auto-ignition temperature (AIT) above 210°C, fluids

which will flash off an inflammable vapour cloud.
4.11 Searching Service
4.11.1 Searching service is a term used to identify fluids with enhanced

leakage capacity that require special attention in valve design and
manufacture to prevent leakage through pressure containing
components (body-bonnet joints etc.) and through seats and seals.
Particular attention is usually given to surface finish of sealing surfaces,
see reference to flange finish in BP Group GS 142-2.
4.11.2 Gasses of low molecular weight such as hydrogen and helium and
liquids of low viscosity such as Dowtherm are of a very searching
nature.
4.12 Solidifying Service
4.12.1 Solidifying service is a general term used to identify fluids that will
change from liquid to solid unless maintained at the correct conditions
of temperature, pressure and flow. It is a term generally associated
with fluids such as liquid sulphur and phthalic anhydride where valves
RP 62-1 PAGE 27
of steam jacketed design may be required or heavy fuel oil where valves
often require tracing to maintain temperature and operability.
4.13 Corrosive Service
4.13.1 Corrosive service is a term generally used to identify clean or dirty

fluids containing corrosive constituents that, depending on
concentration, pressure and temperature may cause corrosion of
metallic components.
Corrosive fluids include sulphuric acid, acetic acid, hydrofluoric acid

(HFA), wet acid gas (wet C02), wet sour gas (wet H2S) and chlorides.
Many chemicals are highly corrosive including concentrations of some
corrosion inhibitors.
4.13.2 Both dirty and clean services may contain corrosive fluids, e.g. a dosing
chemical service with corrosion inhibitor could be nominally defined as
clean.
The choice of suitable corrosion resistant materials for valve pressure

containing components (body bonnet) and trim is necessary to avoid
corrosion that can impair the integrity or performance of the valve.
Types of corrosion that need to be considered when selecting valve

materials and designs include:-
(a) Acid corrosion resulting in general wastage typical with wet

C02.
(b) Crevice corrosion.
(c) Galvanic corrosion between dissimilar materials.
(d) Pitting corrosion.
(e) Stress corrosion cracking of components typical with wet H2S

and chlorides depending on concentration, pressure and
temperature.
(f) Sour service - materials for sour (H2S) service and chlorides are
required to conform with the requirements of BP Group GS
136-1 which includes the requirements of NACE Standard MR-
01-75.
RP 62-1 PAGE 28
4.14 Viscous Service
4.14.1 Viscous service is a term that generally identifies a wide range of dirty
or clean fluids with pronounced thickness and adhesive properties that,
for the range of operating conditions (pressure, temperature and flow)
may require high operating torques and cause a sluggish response
affecting seating. Fluids include high viscosity oils (lube and heavy fuel
oil) and non-newtonian fluids e.g. waxy crude, gels and pastes.
4.14.2 The choice of valves for viscous service can vary depending on fluid
properties. Special attention should be given to check valves where
sluggish response may cause operating difficulties and even hazardous
conditions.
4.15 Vacuum Service
4.15.1 Vacuum service is a term used to identify systems where the pressure is
permanently or intermittently below atmospheric. Valve selection
needs to pay particular attention to sealing capability of glands etc.
4.15.2 In the case of systems which have the potential to create an unwanted
vacuum (e.g. condensing, tanks etc.) it is often necessary to fit a
vacuum breaker valve which functions in such a way as to admit air
automatically whenever a vacuum occurs.
RP 62-1 PAGE 29
5. VALVE OPERATION & ISOLATION
5.1 Fire Resistance
* 5.1.1 BP may specify certain areas of an installation as presenting a special

fire risk. This will influence such factors as the fire testing of soft
seated valves and the fire protection of all type of valves.
In these areas, BP may specify certain valves to be on critical duties;

such valves are anticipated to be few in number on conventional
onshore installations, but will probably be much more numerous on
compact plants such as certain modular or offshore installations.
* 5.1.2 Valves in special fire risk areas, shall be identified as being on (a)
critical or (b) non-critical duty.
(a) Valves on critical duty that require to remain operable during

any fire shall be capable of remote operation from outside the
fire risk area. The complete valve assembly including motor,
actuator and cabling shall be fire protected by a method
approved by BP (see BP Group RP 24-2).
Valves on critical duty that require to remain closed during any fire
shall have either:-
(i) Metal to metal, or non-decomposing primary seats,
or
(ii) If fitted with soft primary seats, shall be fire protected or

fire tested. Fire testing shall be to BS 5146 or API Std
607.
(b) For valves on non-critical duties, fire testing and associated

documentation will not be a standard BP requirement.
5.2 Operability
5.2.1 Manual valves shall be closed by turning a handwheel, wrench or

geared handwheel in a clockwise direction. Wrench operated valves
shall be provided with limit stops to prevent overtravel.
Handwheels and wrenches shall be constructed of steel, malleable or

nodular iron. Pressed or stamped handwheels and wrenches shall not
be used.
RP 62-1 PAGE 30
Butterfly valves with wrench operators shall be designed to hold the
disk in at least five equally spaced intermediate positions between
closed and fully open.
Handwheel keys should only be used in emergencies or where

handwheels are known to be inadequately sized.
If handwheel keys are employed, they should be used with caution.

Increased operating torque is usually indicative of a problem which
needs to be addressed.
5.2.2 The effort required to operate a valve will depend upon its design,
operating conditions and size. When the effort to operate the
handwheel exceeds 350 N geared operators shall be provided.
All gear operators shall be totally enclosed and suitable for the site
conditions (e.g. onshore, offshore and subsea). Any lubricants used
shall be suitable for use at the site ambient temperatures.
350 Newtons is a figure accepted in many British Standards of

operation of manual valves.
Manually operated valves are normally expected to be provided with

gear operators for the following sizes and above, subject to the
manufacturers recommendations.
Class 150 300 600 900 1500 2500
Valve Wedge Gate 14 NB 10 NB 8 NB 6 NB 4 NB 2 NB

Type Globe8 8 6 4 3 2
Ball 8 8 6 6 6 2
Butterfly 8 8 - - - -
Plug 6 6 6 4 4 2
5.2.3 Parallel slide valves for steam services are normally provided with
integral by-pass connection in size 8 NPS and above to equalise
pressure on the disc before opening. The requirement for a by-pass is
subject to the operating pressure and the manufacturers
recommendations. The by-pass pipe shall meet the same specification
as the associated piping specification.
5.2.4 Chainwheel operators shall not be used unless approved by BP and

shall not be used for valves in screwed lines, or for any valve smaller
than 2 in. NB. Extended spindle operator may also be used but should
be avoided if possible.
RP 62-1 PAGE 31
* 5.2.5 Details of ancillary mechanical devices, e.g. locks, linkages, chain
wheels and extended spindles shall be subject to approval by BP.
Approval is required for quality of design, standardisation on plant and assessment

of location (e.g. access/obstruction etc.).
5.2.6 Pneumatic or electric valve actuators shall comply with the

requirements of BP Group RP 30-1 Section 9.
5.2.7 The position of the valve closure member and direction of closure shall
be clearly indicated.
5.3 Isolation
5.3.1 Positive Isolation
5.3.1.1 Recommendations for isolation of piping systems are specified in BP

Group RP 42-1 and where leakage cannot be tolerated for safety or
contamination reasons isolation is made by removal of spools, blanking
or the use of line blinds.
5.3.2 General Isolation
5.3.2.1 Soft seated block valves, such as ball valves, line plug valves, soft
seated gate and butterfly valves can provide a good tight shut off for
most clean services.
5.3.2.2 Metal seated valves may also give tight shut off (when new and on test)
but their efficiency may vary with pressure, temperature and after use
for a period of time, their leak tightness cannot always be guaranteed.
For high pressures/temperatures and dirty abrasive service they may be
the only option and are the preferred type.
5.3.2.3 Metal to metal plug valves have good isolation characteristics but
require regular lubrication and maintenance.
5.3.2.4 For steam services parallel slide valves shall be fitted to the main steam
distribution system, at battery limits or as section isolating valves within
any process unit where any section may be taken out of service for
maintenance while the unit remains in operation. Wedge gate valves
may be used as an alternative for general isolation duty or where good,
low pressure leak tightness is required.
5.3.2.5 There are many variations on the solid wedge gate valve using split and
self aligning wedges for which various claims for improved sealing and
wedge alignment are made. Solid wedges are normally specified for
general service.
RP 62-1 PAGE 32
5.3.2.6 Butterfly valves vary greatly in design of varying degrees of leak
tightness, good results can be obtained from ‘high performance’ type
using offset discs.
5.3.2.7 Double block valves are recommended for services such as hydrogen
service where leakage of a highly flammable searching media is
undesirable.
5.3.3 Block and Bleed
This term describes the provision of a tapping point, either integral with
the valve or located in the downstream pipework, which permits any
leakage past a block valve to be bled off.
5.3.4 Double Block and Bleed
5.3.4.1 This term is used to describe the provision of two isolation points
(either two separate block valves or a single block valve having two
seats, each of which makes a seal) with a tapping point located between
them. The arrangement is used in two different ways:-
(a) Where the two valves or valve seats seal against a single source
of flow or pressure. Any leakage from the first valve or valve
seat is bled off through the tapping point, thus ensuring the
integrity of the second seal.
(b) Where the two valves or valve seats seal against two separate
sources of flow or pressure which are applied from opposite
directions. Any leakage from either source is off through the
tapping point, so preventing contamination or mixing of the two
sources.
5.3.4.2 When a single valve is used for this duty it should ideally be of a type
where the seat load is applied mechanically so that it is independent of
variations in line pressure. Suitable valve types include the parallel
double disk gate valve with expanding wedge, the expanding plug valve
and high integrity versions of the wedge gate valve (e.g. soft seated).
Such valves (when provided with appropriate tappings) are suitable for
either of the two applications described above although arrangements
for pressure relief of the valve cavity must be made where liquids
subject to temperature increase are likely to be trapped.
5.3.4.3 Both trunnion mounted ball valves and through conduit slab gate valves
can be used in single valve arrangements where sealing against both
upstream and downstream pressure is required. It should be noted that
these designs rely on the line pressure to make an effective seal and the
RP 62-1 PAGE 33
use of springs etc. to provide supplementary mechanical loading at low
pressure is not always effective.
5.3.4.4 Through conduit slab gate valves can also be used where a double seal
against upstream pressure is required and have the advantage that the
pressure load applied to the upstream seat is transmitted, through the
floating gate, to the downstream seat. Trunnion mounted ball valves
with double piston effect seats are suitable for double block
applications but must not be used for single valve double block and
bleed duty.
5.3.4.5 Butterfly, globe and conventional plug valves are not suitable for
double block or double block and bleed duty where a single valve is
required.
5.3.4.6 Certain applications (e.g. hydrogen service) require that two separate
valves are provided in double block or double block and bleed
arrangements.
5.3.5 Cavity Relief
5.3.5.1 Some ball valves or special plug valves may have a body cavity sealed
in both the open and closed positions. When open the valve may have
a sealed cavity between the ball or plug and the body. Any fluid of high
thermal expansion may cause the pressure in the cavity to rise to an
unacceptable level and must be relieved.
Relief can be achieved by a drilled hole in the ball or plug from the
cavity to the upstream side or in some cases a drill hole through a seat
ring. Ball valves with floating seats should be self relieving.
RP 62-1 PAGE 34
APPENDIX A
DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS
Definitions
Standardised definitions may be found in the BP Group RPSEs Introductory volume.

contractor: a contractor undertaking to purchase equipment covered by this
practice.
supplier: the manufacturer, or authorised agent of the manufacturer, of

equipment covered by this practice.
Abbreviations
ABS Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene

ANSI American National Standards Institute
API American Petroleum Institute
ASME American Society of Mechanical Engineers
ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials
BHRA British Hydromechanics Research Association
BS British Standard
BSI British Standards Institute
CAF Compressed Asbestos Fibre
CFH Cubic Feet Per Hour
DN Nominal Diameter
EEMUA Engineering Equipment and Materials Users Association
EPDM Ethylene Propylene (Diene Modified)
FPM Viton (Vinylidene Fluoride and Hexafluoropropylene)
GPDM Ethylene Propylene
GPM Gallons Per Minute
HRC Hardness, Rockwell, Scale C
IP Institute of Petroleum
ISA Instrument Society of America
ISO International Standards Organisation
LNG Liquefied Natural Gas
LME Liquid Metal Embrittlement
LPG Liquefied Petroleum Gas
MSS Manufacturers Standardisation Society of the Valves and Fittings Industry
NACE National Association of Corrosion Engineers
NB Nominal Bore
NGL Natural Gas Liquids
NPS Nominal Pipe Size
OCMA Oil Companies Materials Association
PP Poly Proplene
PTFE Polytetrafluorethylene
PVC Poly Vinyl Chloride
RP 62-1 PAGE 35
PVDF Polyvinylidene Fluoride
UPVC Unplasticised Poly Vinyl Chloride
RP 62-1 PAGE 36
APPENDIX B
LIST OF REFERENCED DOCUMENTS
A reference invokes the latest published issue or amendment unless stated otherwise.
Referenced standards may be replaced by equivalent standards that are internationally or
otherwise recognised provided that it can be shown to the satisfaction of the purchaser’s
professional engineer that they meet or exceed the requirements of the referenced standards.
International Documents
ISO 5208 Industrial Valves - Pressure Testing for Valves

American Documents
ASME Boiler & Pressure Power Boilers

Vessel Code Section I
ASME/ANSI B16.1 Cast Iron Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings, Classes 25, 125,
250 and 800.
ASME/ANSI B16.5 Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings.
ASME/ANSI B16.34 Valves - Flanged and Butt-Welding End.
API 6A Specification for Wellhead and Xmas Tree Equipment.
API 6D Pipeline Valves, End Closures, Connectors and Swivels.
API 14D Specification for Pipeline Valves (Steel Gate, Plug, Ball and
Check Valves).
API 594 Wafer-Type Check Valves.
API 597 Steel Venturi Gate Valves, Flanged and Butt-Welding Ends.
API 599 Steel Plug valves, Flanged and Butt-Welding Ends.
API 600 Steel Gate Valves, Flanged and Butt-Welding Ends.
API 602 Compact Steel Gate Valves.
API 603 Class 150, Cast Corrosion Resistant, Flanged End Gate Valves.
API 606 Compact Carbon Steel Gate Valves (Extended Body).
API 607 Fire Test for Soft Seated ball Valves.
RP 62-1 PAGE 37
API 609 Butterfly Valves, Lug Type and Wafer Type.
API 941 Steels for Hydrogen Service at Elevated Temperatures and

Pressures in Petroleum Refineries and Petrochemical Plants.
NACE Std MR-01-75 Material Requirements - Sulphide Stress Cracking Resultant

(1990 Revision) Metallic Material for Oil Field Equipment.
MSS SP 67 Butterfly Valves.
MSS SP 81 Stainless Steel, Bonnetless, Flanged, Wafer, Knife Gate Valves.
United Kingdom Documents
BS 759 Pt. 1 Specification for Valve Mountings and Fittings.
BS 1212 Specification for Float Operated Valves.
BS 1414 Steel Wedge Gate Valves (Flanged and Butt-Welding Ends) for
the Petroleum, Petrochemical and Allied Industries.
BS 1868 Steel Check Valves (Flanged and Butt-Welding Ends) for the
Petroleum, Petrochemical and Allied Industries.
BS 1873 Steel Globe and Globe Stop and Check Valves (Flanged and
Butt-Welding Ends) for the Petroleum, Petrochemical and
Allied Industries.
BS 5150 Cast Iron Wedge and Double Disk Gate Valves for General
Purposes.
BS 5146 Inspection and Testing of Valves.
BS 5152 Cast Iron Globe & Globe & Check Valves for General
Purposes.
BS 5153 Cast Iron Check Valves for General Purposes.
BS 5155 Specification for Butterfly Valves.
BS 5156 Screw Down Diaphragm Valves for General Purposes.
BS 5157 Steel Gate (Parallel Slide) Valves for General Purposes.
BS 5158 Cast Iron and Carbon Steel Plug Valves for General Purposes.
RP 62-1 PAGE 38
BS 5163 Double Flanged Cast Iron Wedge Gate Valves for Water Works
Purposes.
BS 5351 Steel Ball Valves for the Petroleum, Petrochemical and Allied
Industries.
BS 5352 Specification for Steel, Wedge Gate, Globe and Check Valves
50 mm and smaller for the Petroleum, Petrochemical and Allied
Industries.
BS 5353 Specification for Plug Valves.

BS 6364 Specification for Valves for Cryogenic Service.
BS 6755 Pt. 1 Specification for Production Pressure Testing Requirements.

BS 6755 Pt. 2 Specification for Fire Type-Testing Requirements.
EEMUA Publ. No. 167 Specification for Quality Levels for Carbon Steel Valve
Castings.
EEMUA Publ No. 192 Guide for the Procurement of Valves for Low Temperature
(Non-Cryogenic) Service.
BP Group Documents
The BP Group RPs and GSs replace the former BP Codes and Standards, for which the old
document numbers are given in brackets.
BP Group RP 42-1 Piping Systems.
BP Group RP 24-2 Passive Fire Protection of Structures and

Equipment.
BP Group GS 162-5 Wellhead and Xmas Tree Gate Valves.

BP Group GS 162-6
BP Group GS 136-1 Materials for Sour Service to NACE Standard
MR-01-75 (1990 Revision)
BP Group GS 142-7 Gaskets and Jointing.
BP Group GS 142-9 Bolting for Flanged Joints.
BP Group GS 142-2 Pipe Flanges and Fittings.
BP Group RP 30-1 Instrumentation and Control, Design and

Practice.
RP 62-1 PAGE 39
APPENDIX C
WELLHEAD GATE VALVES
C1. General
C1.1 This appendix provides a quick guide to assist in the selection of

wellhead gate valves and considers features of various types. It is
intended to help identify equipment during tender assessments and for
equipment replacement, it is not intended to give field specific
information which will be specified in a technical specification. For BP
general requirements refer to BP Group GS 162-5 and 162-6.
C2. Valve Types
There are three principle types of gate valve which may be considered
for use as wellhead gate valves:-
Floating seat - The seats are spring loaded from the body such that both
upstream and downstream seats are always in contact with the gate. In
this design both the seat to gate and seat to body seals are dynamic
seals.
Fixed seat/Floating gate - The seats are fixed relative to the valve body,
the body to seat seal being provided by a static seal. Cavity pressure,
forces the gate to float and seal against the downstream seat. A
floating connection is required between gate and stems. It is also
possible to have the best of both designs and use a fixed seat for the
downstream seat and a floating seat for the upstream seat.
Split gate - In this design the gate is effectively spring loaded so as to

contact both seats, the seats will generally be of the fixed variety.
There are two basic types of split gate design:-
(a) Spring loaded gate maintaining seat to gate contact.
(b) Spring retained wedge design - where the gate is constructed

from two wedge halves. The wedges are forced to ride up each
other in the closed and open position thus forcing the gate to
form an interference fit with the seats and hence a seal.
C3. Valve Selection
The selection of an appropriate type valve for a particular service must

take account of the following aspects.
RP 62-1 PAGE 40
C3.1 Actuation Method
Valves which maintain seat to gate contact shall be designed to prevent

cavity locking effects, i.e. an increase in cavity pressure which
generated sufficient opposing force to prevent actuation. In general,
this should be achieved by the use of a balance stem arrangements, i.e.
an equal diameter stem on both sides of the gate. In this design a
pressure assist force valve closure can be generated by supplying
upstream pressure behind the balance stem.
The spring retained wedge design will require the generation of very
high actuation forces to operate the valve, this generally means the use
of a manual actuator or a double acting actuator (rather than a spring
return fail safe closed device). For the latter reason this type of valve
should not generally be used where closure is required when control
system pressure is lost.
Unbalanced cavity valve designs (i.e. single stem of two stems with
different diameters) can produce a pressure assist force to assist in
valve closure, reducing the size of actuator return spring required.
unbalanced cavity valve designs should vent any potential change of
pressure due to cavity volume changes to the process bore.
C3.2 Sandy Service
Valves which maintain seat to gate contact are preferable for sandy
service, fully fixed seat designs can also be considered if the gate float
tolerance is minimised.
Sandy service valves should feature sufficient debris seals and scrapers
to prevent sand ingress into the gate, seat and stem sealing faces.
C3.3 Valve Requirements
C3.3.1 General
The valve should be of minimum complexity.
The valve should either have a proven track record or have been
previously rigorously tested.
* C3.3.2 The chosen supplier should operate a proven and BP approved QA

system.
RP 62-1 PAGE 41
C3.3.3 Valve Stem Seals
Stem seals shall in general consist of:-
(a) A scraper to remove debris from the stem.
(b) A primary seal which should be metallic. The scraper and metal
primary seal may be incorporated as one device.
(c) A backup seal which should be constructed from a material

highly resistant to chemical attack and explosive decompression
damage. Typically the backup seal should be constructed from
glass reinforced PTFE and incorporate a spring energiser for
low pressure sealing.
Many valve designs incorporate a stem arrangement where a profile on

the stem can contact against a mating face in the bonnet in order to
form a high pressure seal. This arrangement is beneficial in two ways:-
It forms a further seal, possibly allowing changeout of the stem primary

and backup seal whilst still under pressure.
It prevents ejection of a disconnected stem out through the bonnet.
The use of elastomeric materials for stem seals is undesirable due to

their relative poor resistance to explosive decompression and chemical
attack from chemicals such as methanol and scale inhibitor. The stem
seal material shall be carefully selected in order to avoid attack from
any specified or likely process fluid.
The process fluid temperature and pressure will have a major effect on
stem seal selection. PTFE glass reinforced stem seals are generally
suitable up to temperatures of 120ºC combined with pressures up to
15000 psi, a metal seal could be suitable service above this limit. An
extended bonnet design may be adopted in order to locate the stem seal
in a lower temperature area more remote from the high temperature
fluid.
Fire tested valves will require to have stem seals which are of a suitable
high temperature material (i.e. metal) or the seal will need to be
shielded from the high temperature effects.
The stem itself should be hard coated to avoid any scoring from debris
and galling damage with the scraper or metal stem seal.
RP 62-1 PAGE 42
C3.3.4 Seat to Body Sealing
Floating or fixed seat designs are generally acceptable.
Gate to seat sealing both high and low pressure should be effected by
metal to metal contact only. The gate to seat contact pressure shall be
in the region of 3 times that of the process fluid. Sealing systems with
insert seals in the seat sealing face are not to be used, such seals have
only limited life and can often function as debris traps impairing valve
sealing and causing erosion.
The gate and seat surface finish and flatness shall comply with the
following if low pressure sealing down to 80 psi is required:-
(a) Be flat to better than 3 light bands using a helium laser source.
(b) Have a surface finish of better than 8 CLA.
In the case of process fluid containing debris a sandy service type

design of valve should be utilised. The design shall prevent damage
from any particles being trapped between the downstream seat to gate
sealing surface. This prevention can either be achieved by:-
(a) Adopting spring loaded seats which always maintain contact

with the gate.
(b) Minimising the gate float in the case of a floating gate design
and using hard gate/seat materials.
(c) Adopting a split spring loaded gate design.
Note: Chamfers on the seat OD shall be avoided. They can act as

debris traps and cause scoring damage of the gate and seats.
C3.3.5 Seat to Body Sealing
The seat to body sealing should avoid the use of any elastomeric seal.
A metal to metal seal is preferred in this location for high and low
pressure sealing.
In the case of a floating seat design the seal used shall be capable of
accepting repeated compression and expansion due to the seat
movement. The sealing faces shall also be protected by debris or
scraper seals to prevent build up of debris which could impair the float
or sealing integrity.
RP 62-1 PAGE 43
C3.4 Materials
Material requirements will be covered in a technical specification

(particularly in reference to the fluid class) and in BP Group GS 162-5
and 162-6.
In general, the following material guidelines are provided in reference

to the API fluid classes (latest Edition API 6A).
Fluid Body/Bonnets Valve Gate Seats Gasket
AA Alloy Steel + Inlayed Alloy Steel + Tungsten Solid Carbide 316 SS

Pockets/Seal Preps Carbide Overlay or Stellite
BB Alloy Steel + Inlayed Alloy Steel + Tungsten Solid Carbide 316 SS

Pockets/Seal Preps Carbide Overlay or Stellite
CC Alloy Steel with Inconel Inconel + Tungsten Solid Carbide Nickel

Cladding Carbide Overlay or Stellite Alloy
DD Alloy Steel + Inlayed Alloy Steel + Tungsten Solid Carbide 316 SS

Pockets/Seat Preps Carbide Overlay or Stellite
EE Alloy Steel + Inlayed Alloy Steel + Tungsten Solid Carbide 316 SS

Pockets/Seat Preps Carbide Overlay or Stellite
HH Alloy Steel with Nickel Alloy + Tungsten Solid Carbide Nickel

Nickel Alloy Cladding Carbide Overlay or Stellite Alloy
The need for hard gate and seat materials shall however be reinforced.
Typically gate and seats in the order to 50 HRC should be utilised, with
a differential hardness of approximately 5 HRC between seats and
gate. These hardness values will provide long term wear resistance and
avoid abrasion damage.
The stems shall be constructed from a wear and corrosion resistant

material to avoid damage from hard particles and to prevent any galling
action with metal stem seals. Typically a tungsten carbide coating will
be required on top of a corrosion resistant substrate material.
RP 62-1 PAGE 44
C3.5 Supporting Calculations
The manufacturer shall provide:-
(a) Calculations showing the sealing pressure developed by the seat

to gate contact.
(b) Calculations of the maximum gate drag, stating what seat to

gate coefficient of friction is used.
(c) Calculations of the stem buckling load showing that buckling

will not occur.
(d) Calculations justifying pressure retaining boundary.
C3.6 Previous Testing
Evidence of previous satisfactory testing of the valve design shall be

given. These tests shall include:-
High pressure hydrostatic tests
Low pressure hydrostatic tests
Low pressure air tests at 80 psi
API 14D test for sandy service conditions (if sandy service is required)
RP 62-1 PAGE 45
APPENDIX D
BLOCK VALVE TYPES
This Commentary relates to clause 3.2.
D1. Ball Valves
D1.1 A low torque quarter turn valve, with low resistance to flow, suitable
for many on-off utility and process services. It has a straight through
configuration typical of the sliding method of closure. It is not
generally used for throttling applications in its standard form because
of the potential for seat damage and cavitation. There are several
designs including the floating ball, eccentric ball and trunnion
mounted ball types. Most designs are double seated but there are
some special single seated designs.
The majority of valves have soft seats, usually PTFE which limits the
maximum working temperature and makes the valve unsuitable for
abrasive service. Graphite seats are also available. Metal to metal
seated designs can however be purchased and these are suitable for
abrasive service. Reduced bore valves are not recommended for very
high velocities of fluids containing solids. Where scaling may take
place on the ball surface, metal seats with a scraping action to clean
ball should be specified.
Soft seated ball valves are excellent for clean service but lips of soft
seals are easily damaged by hard particles, solids can also become
trapped in body cavities. When the fluid is dirty, or hard particles are
present, hard faced balls and seats may be recommended together with
a block and bleed facility (e.g. export oil/sandwash). Plated balls
should be avoided. Gate valves may be preferred for some of these
services.
D1.2 The body design features vary and can be defined as follows:-
(a) One Piece:-
(i) Axial entry (ball fitted through body ends).

(ii) Top entry.
(iii) Bottom entry.
(iv) Sealed type.
(b) Split-Body:-
(i) Two Piece - (Comprising of body and body

connector)
RP 62-1 PAGE 46
(ii) Sandwich - (Comprising of body and two body
connectors) enables body to be removed
from line leaving body connectors
attached to mating pipework. Has
additional joints which could leak. The
body connectors usually retain ball
seals, the removal and replacement of
body could affect seal loading.
(iii) Constrained - (Comprises of a body and two ends)

arranged such that the body cannot be
removed without significant
displacement of the pipe.
D1.3 Valves may be characterised by the method used to support the ball:-
(a) Seat Supported and Floating Ball Type
These are designed to support the ball with two seats in the
valve body on up and down stream sides. The upstream
pressure presses the ball on the downstream seat, compressing
the seal and shutting off fluid flow. Some valves have pre-
compressed seats providing a double block and bleed function,
these should have features to allow relief of the body cavity
pressure. Seat supported valves are generally used in small
bore piping or low pressure clean service classes 150-300.
Larger sizes and higher pressures result in high seat loads and
operating torques.
(b) Trunnion Supported Type
These have the ball mounted on trunnions supported in body

bearings above and below the ball. Sealing is achieved by a
spring loaded seat inserted in a retainer which shuts off flow
using line pressure. This provides automatic cavity relief. Can
be used for double block and bleed only when pressure acts
from opposite directions.
Trunnion supported designs are available in the larger sizes

and used for higher pressure service, they have lower
operating torque requirements than seat supported types.
D1.4 Where soft seats are specified, shrouded designs with a large contact
area are recommended to minimise seat damage.
RP 62-1 PAGE 47
D1.5 For high temperature service, graphite or metal to metal seats should
be specified.
D1.6 Soft seated socket or butt weld end valves for sizes up to 1 ½ NPS
should be provided with end nipples welded in place by the
manufacturer prior to valve assembly, the valves having an overall
length of 400 mm. The carbon content of socket or butt-welding
components shall be limited to 0.25%.
* D1.7 Valves with Chromium plated balls shall not be used. Subject to BP
approval, nickel plating may be used (see para G6.1). For abrasive
service balls and seats faced with Stellite 6 or equivalent should be
used. The material and method of deposition shall be subject to
approval by BP.
D1.8 Valves with welding ends shall only be specified for sizes up to and
including 1 ½ NPS, above this size flanged valves shall be used except
where external leakage is totally unacceptable. Flange valves sizes 1
½ NPS and below shall normally only be used on equipment
connections, tank nozzles and header branches.
D1.9 Where Class 150 short pattern valves sizes 12 NPS and 16 NPS are
specified rather than long pattern types the ball may protrude beyond
the body end flange faces when the valve is closed. Such valves
cannot be used where spading is envisaged, cannot be easily removed
when in the closed position and should be avoided.
D1.10 Steel ball valves shall comply with BS 5351 or API Spec. 6D and,
where specified with soft seats, shall be a fire safe design to BS 6755
Part 2 or API 607 and fitted with an anti-static device.
The requirement for fire tested valves may be waived for valves used in
areas not defined as fire risk. For important isolation duties in fire
risk areas, external protection may also be specified by the purchaser.
* D1.11 Pressure/temperature ratings shall comply with the requirements BS

5351 or API Spec. 6D. These ratings may require to be limited subject
to the manufacturers recommendations and details of the seat
material. High ratings based on the manufacturers recommendations
shall only be used subject to the approval of BP. Valve designs to API
Spec. 6D shall be subject to approval by BP.
D1.12 Valves which rely on sealant injection to seal damaged seating

surfaces shall not be used on dirty services.
D1.13 Cam action stem valves having a single seat with inserts are not
suitable for scaling services. This type of valve is usually used on high
RP 62-1 PAGE 48
or low temperature gas service. They are not generally recommended
for pigged lines, but if used on this duty the pig and valve
manufacturers should be consulted. Some of these valves may require
studs instead of stud bolts in end flanges, and reference should be
made to manufacturer’s catalogue. Metal seated valves may have a
substantially higher differential pressure capability than conventional
soft seated ball valves.
D1.14 Where rapid closure of the valve could cause water hammer, gear
operated valves shall be used.
D2. Butterfly Valves
D2.1 A low torque, quarter turn, rotary action valve with a straight through
flow configuration in which the disk is turned through 90 degrees,
closed to open position, in axial trunnion bearings and is used as a
control or block valve. It is of compact design and may be obtained
with or without flanges and linings. Seating arrangements may be soft
(use of body lining, trapped ‘O’ ring etc.) or metal to metal.
They generally do not provide the lowest resistance to flow, especially

as the size decreases, due to the increasing intrusion of the disc in the
flow path, but may be used where resistance to flow is not critical.
The configuration also imposes pressure limitations. The closing
method can provide good shut off and various degrees of seat leak
tightness, dependent on the design. Butterfly valves are generally
suitable for bi-directional sealing but some designs have a preferred
direction of flow.
Seating arrangements may be soft (use of body lining, trapped ‘O’

ring etc.) or metal to metal.
Butterfly valves have the following disadvantages:-
(a) Line cannot be pigged.
(b) Create higher pressure drop than full bore gate or ball valves.
(c) Require to be withdrawn from line for maintenance.
(d) Block and bleed facility not available unless two valves or
double disk type are installed.
D2.2 Butterfly valve designs available are:-
(a) Conventional type supplied to BS 5155 generally suitable for:-
RP 62-1 PAGE 49
(i) ANSI B16.1 class 125 iron flanges.
(ii) ANSI B16.5 class 150 steel flanges.
(iii) Maximum shut-off pressure: generally 14 bar. Refer to

manufacturer’s catalogues.
(iv) Tight shut-off generally below 120°C, dependent on

resilient lining. Refer to manufacturers’ catalogues.
(v) Shut-off, with allowable seat leakage, to 425°C for

metal seated valves.
(vi) On-off or control service. (Notes: when used for

control, butterfly valves exhibit high pressure recovery
downstream and are thus susceptible to generating
cavitation in liquid service.)
(vii) Non-demanding corrosive service.
(viii) Large flows of gases, liquids, slurries, liquids with

solids in suspension.
(ix) Fire safe application.
Body Patterns available are:-
(a) Double flanged - having flanged ends for connection to pipe

flanges by individual bolting.
(b) Wafer - primarily intended for clamping between pipe flanges

using through bolting with a body of one of the following
patterns:-
(i) Single flange or lug type - incorporating drilled or

tapped holes.
(ii) Flangeless - fitted inside the bolt circle.
(iii) U-Section - with flanges, but generally may not be

assumed suitable for individual bolting of each flange
to the pipework.
(c) ‘High performance’ type. This refers to valves with offset

disk/seats which are suitable for higher pressures to BS 5155
and API Std. 609. The term does not exclude conventional
RP 62-1 PAGE 50
form having a high performance within their pressure/
temperature range.
RP 62-1 PAGE 51
‘High performance’ valves are suitable for:-
(i) ANSI B16.5 class 150-600 steel flanges. (Note that

there are limited suppliers of class 600 valves).
(ii) Pressure/temperature ratings to ANSI B16.34 and

differential pressure to full flange rating except where
restricted by resilient seat material.
(iii) Tight shut-off, using resilient seats, to 260ºC.
(iv) Shut-off, with allowable seat leakage, to 538°C for

metal seated valves.
(v) On-off or control service. (See (a) (vi) page 45).
(vi) Large flows of gases, liquids, slurries, liquids with

solids in suspension.
(vii) Fire safe application.
(viii) Cryogenic Service
Body patterns available are normally restricted to single flange/lug

type or flangeless wafer type.
D2.3 Conventional butterfly valves are supplied with iron or steel bodies,
iron valves shall not be used for process duties hazardous service or
where freezing is a possibility. The valve stem is generally mounted
through the vertical axis of the disk. For tight closure the disk/seat
interface must be suitably designed, particularly around the stem.
Tight closure can be achieved by mounting the disk eccentrically on
the stem/shaft providing an uninterrupted 360 degrees seal.
D2.4 ‘High performance’ butterfly valves are supplied with steel or alloy
bodies, with stem mounted eccentrically on the disk.
D2.5 Single flange (lug) type valves with replaceable seats may not be
suitable for dead-end service without the use of a downstream
companion or blind flange. The manufacturer shall state in his
quotation the suitability of valve for dead-end service.
D2.6 A wafer type butterfly valve in which the resilient seat is extended to
serve also as a line gasket should only be installed between weld neck
or socket weld pipe flanges. Slip-on or threaded flanges may not
provide an adequate seal.
RP 62-1 PAGE 52
D2.7 Vulcanised linings are difficult to renew, and are not recommended.
D2.8 Lined valves should not be specified for sticky fluid services, but may
be specified on gritty services for proven designs.
* D2.9 A valve in which the gasket contact area is reduced by counterbored

or countersunk holes for retaining screws, used to secure seat ring
assemblies in the valve body, shall not be used unless approved by BP.
When specified, it shall be used only with the gasket manufacturer’s
recommended gasket, contact area, and surface finish. Spiral wound
gaskets shall not be used on such valves.
D2.10 As the distribution of static fluid pressure on the disk may produce a
strong closing torque, larger size valves should be equipped with self-
locking gearing or other substantial stem restraints.
D2.11 On liquid service, manually operated valves located such that rapid
closure could produce water hammer shall be gear operated.
Alternatively, if suitable, a gate valve may be specified.
D2.12 The user should ensure the disk, when fully or partly open, will not
foul adjacent valves, fittings or connected pipework particularly when
assembled with cement or rubber lined pipe.
D2.13 Flangeless wafer type valves with long exposed bolts, may leak when
subject to high or low temperatures and if exposed to fire due to
expansion of the bolts.
* D2.14 Flangeless wafer type valves shall not be used for flammable or toxic
service without approval by BP. Where such valves are used, a light
gauge stainless steel shroud shall be wrapped around the valve and
exposed bolts irrespective of service. Alternatively, lug type valves
may be considered subject to approval by BP.
In order to limit flange seal leakage in toxic service or where fire

hazard exists, bolting should be kept as short as possible.
* D2.15 Wafer-type valves shall not be used where it is required to dismantle a

pipeline leaving the valve at the end of the pressurised line. Valves
having tapped holes shall not be used in this application without
approval of BP.
Bolts may become rusted in bodies and difficult to remove, nuts can be
cut or burnt off.
RP 62-1 PAGE 53
D2.16 Butterfly valve standards are:-
(a) BS 5155 - Specifies requirements for double flanged and

wafer types of metal seated, resilient seated, and
lined cast iron and carbon steel valves.
These valves are supplied to ANSI class 125,

150 and 300 and ratings PN25 and PN40.
Refer to Standard for pressure/temperature
ratings.
(b) API Std. 609 - Specifies requirements for wafer type and lug
type valves of cast iron, ductile iron, bronze,
carbon steel or alloy steel construction. Valves
may be metal seated, resilient seated, or lined.
Conventional type valves and high performance
type valves are covered: conventional to ANSI
class 125 and 150 with a maximum pressure
differential of 14 bar, and high performance
valves to ANSI class 600.
(c) MSS-SP 67 - Specifies requirements for double flanged and

wafer types of metal seated, resilient seated, and
lined cast iron, carbon steel, bronze valves to
ANSI class 125, 150 and 300.
D2.17 Valves to different standards may not be interchangeable because of

differing face-to-face dimensions, where necessary care in specifying
standards may be required to restrict inventory.
D3. Gate Valves
D3.1 Gate valves are used for on/off operation on non-vibrating

hydrocarbon, general process and utilities service for all temperature
ranges. They have straight through configurations which are typical
of the sliding method.
Gate valve types are:-
(a) Wedge
(b) Parallel Double disk (internal wedge)
(c) Parallel Slab/Conduit
(d) Parallel Slide
(e) Knife-edge
(f) Venturi
(g) Corrosion resistant
(h) Compact
RP 62-1 PAGE 54
D3.2 Gate valves should not be used for:-
(a) Installation in horizontal lines transporting heavy or abrasive

slurries where sediment may become trapped in the pocket
below the valve seat, preventing closure. (Except for reverse
acting conduit or knife-edged types).
(b) Throttling duties generally, as erosion of seats and disk may

cause leakage. However, gate valves may be used for control
valve bypass duty on class 150-600 sizes 10 in. n.b. and over,
and class 900-2500 sizes 8 in. NB and over.
D3.3 Gate valves have the following stem arrangements:-
(a) Inside screw: rising or non-rising stem
(b) Outside screw: rising or non-rising stem
D3.4 An outside screw, rising stem valve is easier to maintain, allowing

access for lubrication of the thread. In marine environments the rising
stem and threads should be protected against corrosion, or corrosion
resistant material should be specified.
D3.5 Where headroom is limited, a non-rising stem type valve may be

specified. As the stem thread is within the body and is exposed to the
line fluid, this type is unsuitable for corrosive or slurry service where
excessive wear may occur on threads, or for high temperature
applications where expansion and contraction may cause thread
binding. BS 5352 restricts carbon steel valves of this type to a
maximum temperature of 425°C.
D3.6 When quick and frequent operation is necessary, and taking account
of water hammer, ball valves or in some instances plug valves, having
quarter turn operation, are preferred rather than a relatively slower
operated gate valve.
D3.7 Wedge Gate Valve
(a) Steel wedge gate valves are classified by wedge type: plain
solid wedge, flexible solid wedge; split wedge. A flexible solid
wedge may more easily accommodate misaligned seats and
minimise galling of sealing surfaces. A plain solid wedge may
be more difficult to grind to an accurate fit.
(b) Solid wedge gate valves are good general block valves offering
a good sealing capability with low pressure drop. A 100%
RP 62-1 PAGE 55
shut-off capability cannot always be relied upon however, and
slight leakage may occur with variations in temperature and
pressure after being in service sometime. For hydrogen
service, double (two) wedge gate valves should be used for
shut-off applications. Extended bonnets are available for
cryogenic service.
(c) Wedge gate valves are prone to ‘thermal wedging’ when

subjected to temperature changes after closure. In these and
similar conditions, where the valve body may deform following
a change in process conditions, a split wedge type valve to API
Standard 600 may be specified. This has a two-piece gate
which can adjust to changes in seat angle whilst maintaining a
good seal.
(d) Wedge gate valves may have seating problems on dirty service
due to material collecting on seats or in base of valve but may
give a better life than soft seated ball valves. Services with
abrasive particles or applications where wire drawing is
possible will require hard faced wedges and seats. Conduit or
parallel gate types give increased service lift when used with
fluids containing solid particles because the gate cleans the
seat and there is less chance of solids entering body cavities.
(e) Some special rubber seated designs have good sealing

characteristics when used on applications containing solids but
have limited pressure and temperature range, other soft seats
may be damaged by hard particles.
(f) Flat sided designs are economical in terms of space and cost
but their use should be restricted to the low pressure ratings.
(g) Steel valves below 2 in. NB have plain solid wedges and shall
comply with BS 5352 or API Standard 602.
(h) Steel valves size 2 in. NB and above shall comply with BS 1414
or API Standard 600. The standard steel wedge gate valve 2
in. NB and above normally has outside screw and yoke, rising
stem, non-rising handwheel, and bolted bonnet.
(i) Cast iron valves shall not be used except for underground
water services where freezing is not a possibility and shall
comply with BS 5150 or BS 5163.
RP 62-1 PAGE 56
D3.8 Parallel Double Disk Gate Valve (Expanding Wedge)
(a) This valve has parallel seats and an internal spreading device
which forces the two disks against the body seats at point of
closure, providing a tight seal for liquid or gas service without
the assistance of fluid pressure.
(b) Should not be used on steam service, as the increased

differential pressure resulting from condensate forming
between the disks may result in leakage.
(c) Steel valves shall comply with API Standard 600 or API Spec.
6D.
(d) Cast iron valves - see CM3.3.7 (i).
D3.9 Parallel/Conduit Gate Valve
(a) This valve has a single parallel faced slab gate, incorporating
an aperture the same diameter as the valve bore. When the
gate rises to the fully open position it allows free and
uninterrupted flow. The body cavity is sealed off by the gate
when the valve is fully open or closed. Valves may have rising
or non-rising stem, can be obtained with a reduced bore, and
are available in reverse acting version where the gate rises to
close the valve.
(b) The seats are usually pressure energised onto the gate and
double block and bleed designs are available. Metal seated
versions of the valve are amongst the most suitable for dirty or
abrasive service.
(c) The basic design is suitable for use on a wide range of

applications e.g. well head isolation, large diameter piping,
storage tanks, and on pipeline service where pigs may be
passed through the line.
(d) Steel valves for process applications shall comply with API
Spec. 6D.
D3.10 Parallel Slide Valves
(a) The design feature of parallel slide valves is to maintain a high

degree of fluid - tightness without the aid of a wedging action.
This is normally achieved by two sliding discs maintained in
close contact with the seats with a non-corrodible spring when
not under pressure. Effective closure is obtained by pressure
RP 62-1 PAGE 57
of fluid forcing the downstream disc against the mating body
seat. Because of this, the valve will not provide tight shut-off
at very low or zero differential pressure.
(b) On opening, the discs slide over the seat faces completely clear
of the bore giving full flow through the valve.
(c) Sealing capability and operability are virtually unaffected by

wide temperature variations.
(d) These valves are recommended for applications where good

shut-off characteristics are required for steam headers, steam
isolation, feed water and blowdown applications (where they
are used in tandem with a sacrificial globe valve).
(e) Flanged steel valves class 150-600 shall comply with BS 5157,
except that blowdown service valves are to manufacturer’s
standards, but complying with BS 759 Part 1 or ASME Power
Boiler Code Section 1.
(f) Socket-weld and butt-weld valves for all classes are to the
manufacturer’s standards.
D3.11 Knife-Edge Gate Valve
(a) This valve has a bevel or knife-edged gate, and is designed to

handle slurries etc. liable to obstruct a wedge gate. The knife-
edge pushes aside or cuts through solids in the flow.
(b) The valve is generally designed to manufacturer’s standard. A

stainless steel bonnetless version is available to MSS-SP-81.
(c) Body materials suitable for most corrosive services are

stainless steel types 304, 316 or 347.
D3.12 Compact Carbon Steel Gate Valve (Extended Body)
(a) These are small (1 ½ in. n.b. max.) valves having one end
extended to permit direct threaded or welded attachment to the
pipe and a threaded or socket weld female connection on the
other end. Otherwise the valve characteristics match those of
API Standard 602.
(b) The valve may be used as a primary isolator for pressure

measurement, vents or drains. use of the valve eliminates a
pipe nipple and weld joint where applicable.
RP 62-1 PAGE 58
(c) The valve shall comply with API Standard 606.
D3.13 Venturi Gate Valve
(a) In this valve the seat openings are smaller than the end ports.
The pressure drop through the valve can be up to twice that of
a full bore valve but is generally negligible in relation to the
whole piping system.
(b) The advantages of this valve compared to the full bore type
are: lighter weight, lower cost, and easier operation.
(c) When valves are installed in horizontal pipe runs line drainage
may be necessary.
(d) Wedge gate type valves shall comply with API Standard 597.
(e) Parallel slide type valves shall comply with BS 5157.
D3.14 Corrosion-Resistant Gate Valve
(a) Class 150 valves may be specified to API Standard 603.
(b) Valves above class 150 should be specified to BS 1414 or API

Standard 600.
D4. Globe or Screw-Down Stop Valves
D4.1 The globe or screw-down stop valve is used for flow regulation or as a
block valve where resistance to flow is not critical and a positive
closing action is required. They have a tortuous configuration which
is typical of the closing method and results in a higher resistance to
flow compared with other valves. The configuration of the flow path is
normally only suitable for uni-directional flow. High un-balance
forces on single seated disc or plug designs tend to prevent opening
with reverse flow but may be reduced in double seated designs.
D4.2 The types are:-
(a) Globe
(b) Oblique
(c) Angle
all of which can be provided in needle pattern. The oblique and angle
type have much lower flow resistance than the straight-through globe.
RP 62-1 PAGE 59
D4.3 Steel valves below 2 in. NB shall comply with BS 5352.
D4.4 Steel valves 2 in. NB and above shall comply with BS 1873.
D4.5 Cast iron valves shall comply with BS 5152.
D4.6 Globe, oblique or angle valves may be used to advantage for frequent
on-off operation on gas or steam service because of a relatively short
disk travel. For this operation the following disk are suitable:-
(a) Flat seat disk: with a metal-to-metal seat or a soft seal ring
incorporated in the disk or seat ring. A soft seal ring type may
be specified where foreign matter might prevent tight closure
or score seating surfaces of metal-to-metal seats. The soft seal
may be easily replaced. Soft seal rings are limited to their
maximum allowable temperature.
(b) Types where the disk has a tapered or spherical seating

surface, and provides a narrow contact against a conical seat.
The narrow contact area tends to break down hard deposits
that may form on the seat.
D4.7 Oblique type valves have a relatively straight flow path, and are
suitable for on-off or throttling duty on abrasive slurry or highly
viscous services. Globe valves are not recommended for these
services.
D4.8 Angle type valves, when fitted at a change in direction of piping, save
one bend or elbow and have the advantage of a smaller pressure drop
than that for a globe valve. These valves are not extensively used
because:-
(a) The 90 degrees bend in process piping may subject the valve to
considerable stress at operating temperature.
(b) The handwheel may be placed in only one position with respect
to the piping.
D5. Plug Valves
D5.1 Plug valves have quarter turn operation, plugs are tapered or parallel
plugs, and are suitable for most on-off clean process and utility
services, including non-abrasive slurries. They have straight through
configurations typical of the sliding method. When used for throttling,
special trim is necessary. Full bore, round port valves only are
suitable for pigging, and when required for this duty the manufacturer
RP 62-1 PAGE 60
shall be consulted. While plug valves are generally cheaper than ball
valves, in the longer term, for some designs excessive operating torque
and unacceptable leakage (on lubricated types) may make them less
economic. Lubricated types require regular maintenance and PTFE
sleeved and lined designs have temperature limitations.
Certain designs of fully lined or sleeved plug valves have excellent

leakage performance, both down the line and to atmosphere and are
specifically used for caustic, chlorine and similar services. ‘Fire safe’
glands are available from some manufacturers. The method of fitting
or keying in the sleeve of PTFE sleeved valve is important to prevent
creep of the sleeve and to maintain a low operating torque.
Lubricated types have been traditionally used for caustic, towns gas
and sometimes for maintenance compressed air service. Valves for
chlorine service shall have a drilling to vent plug and any body cavity
to upstream port.
Fire tested glands can be obtained for sleeved valves. A fire tested
plug valve cannot seal down the line once the sleeve is damaged.
However, plug valve sleeves take longer to suffer damage than ball
valve seals.
On dirty service the seats will normally be wiped clean. There are no
cavities for trapping solids. The sleeves can sustain some damage
before eventually leakage occuring. Dirty service could increase the
already high operating torque.
D5.2 Plug valves are made in four patterns, with port shapes and areas as
follows:-
(a) Round opening pattern: full bore round ports in both

body and plug (API Std. 6D, API
Std. 599).
(b) Regular Pattern: substantially full area seat ports

of rectangular or similar shape.
(c) Venturi Pattern: reduced area seat ports or round,

rectangular or similar shape.
Less expensive, with lower
operating torque requirements
than a regular pattern valve;
recommended for use in larger
sizes.
RP 62-1 PAGE 61
(d) Short Pattern: substantially full area or reduced
area seat ports of rectangular or
similar shape, with face-to-face
dimension corresponding to
wedge gate valves. Not
recommended in larger sizes
because the short length results
in a small port area with abrupt
change of throat shape between
the flanges and plug.
D5.3 Plug valve types are:-
(a) Lubricated plug: lubricant is injected under

pressure between the plug face
and body seat to reduce friction,
provide port sealing, and to
permit sealant jacking action to
unseat the plug when it is
tapered. Available in parallel
and taper versions.
(b) Non-lubricated plug: incorporates mechanical design

features to reduce friction
between the plug face and body
seat during operation by lifting
the plug, or, in the split plug
type valve, by contracting the
plug. Fully PTFE lined or PTFE
sleeved valves are also available.
Plug surfaces may be:-
(i) Hard faced or hardened

by heat treatment to
prevent galling.
(ii) Provided with an

elastomeric coating.
(iii) Provided with soft seats.
D5.4 Sleeved plug valves are of the tapered design and incorporate a
polymeric sleeve (usually PTFE) in the body. Normally only available
in the lower pressure ratings, they can provide good leak tightness.
RP 62-1 PAGE 62
D5.5 Expanding plug valves are of the parallel design and incorporate a
split plug with an internal wedge mechanism which is used to force the
plug halves against the seats on closure and to release them on
opening. Soft seal rings are usually employed and the design is
capable of excellent sealing. These valves are suitable for use in
double block and bleed applications.
D5.6 Lifting (or wedge) plug valves are of the tapered design and utilise an
operating mechanism whereby the plug is lifted from the seat prior to
turning open or closed, the object being to reduce operating torque
whilst maintaining good sealing capability.
D5.7 Eccentric plug valves are of the parallel design utilise a cam action to
drive a half-plug onto the downstream seat. Designs are limited to the
lower pressure ratings and lined versions are available.
D5.8 Lined plug valves are of the tapered design and are fully lined (plug
and body) for chemical resistance.
D5.9 Parallel plug valves relying on lubrication to seal and protect the
seats may be subject to through leakage. For bubble tight service,
parallel plug valves should be to a soft seated design rather than a
lubricated type.
D5.10 Lubricated plug valves are not generally recommended because:-
(i) Requires a lubrication programme to be maintained. The

current lubricant must be used to suit the fluid.
(ii) Is subject to the temperature limitations of the lubricant.
(iii) Is unsuitable for throttling duty.
(iv) Lubricant may be washed from the plug face to contaminate

the process stream.
(v) Some process fluids of very low lubricity may dissolve the
lubricant from the plug so that the valve may tend to gall.
(vi) Unsuitable for dirty or abrasive service.
D5.11 Tapered plug valves have the following disadvantages:-
(i) May be difficult to free after prolonged setting in one position.
(ii) Unsuitable for dirty or abrasive service.
RP 62-1 PAGE 63
(iii) High operating torque (although this may be alleviated by
using a lift type valve, a low friction coating or a lined or
sleeved valve).
(iv) Some designs of PTFE sleeved plug valves have a high

operating torque.
(v) Is subject to temperature limitation of elastomer/polymer

sleeve or plug coating.
Pressure balanced valves are not recommended for abrasive service.

D5.12 Soft seated valves shall be fitted with an anti-static device.
D5.13 Soft seated lift type plug valves may be considered for tight shut-off
applications. For abrasive service a metal-to-metal seat lift type plug
valve is available, but may require seat flushing. Metal seated ball
valves are preferred.
D5.14 When used on liquid service, manually operated valves located such
that rapid closure could produce water hammer shall be gear
operated. Alternatively, if suitable, specify a gate valve.
D5.15 Multiple port plug valves are available. These may simplify piping
layout, reduce the number of valves required, and eliminate elbows or
tees.
D5.16 Multiple port arrangement may be such that one channel closes before
another begins to open, preventing mixture of fluids or loss of
pressure. Alternatively, some valves have greater port width so that in
turning the plug, a new channel begins to open before the former
channel is completely closed. This alternative may be used where it is
necessary to carry out switching operation without stopping the flow at
any time.
D5.17 Multiple port valves can only provide closure when the operating
pressure holds the plug against the body port which has to be shut off
from the higher pressure. Leakage may occur when the operating
pressure tends to push the plug away from the body port which has to
be shut off. For vacuum applications ensure that the vacuum tends to
hold the plug against the body port which has to be shut off.
D5.18 4-way valves are intended for directional control only, and cannot be
expected to hold high differential pressure without leakage from one
side of the valve to the other.
D5.19 For corrosive services lined valves may be specified.
RP 62-1 PAGE 64
D5.20 Cast iron straight-way plug valves shall comply with BS 5158.
D5.21 Steel straight through plug valves shall comply with BS 5353, API
Standard 599 or API Spec. 6D.
D5.22 Cast iron or steel multiple port valves are supplied to manufacturer’s
standard but shall be generally in accordance with the requirements of
BS 5158, BS 5353, or API Standard 599.
D6. Diaphragm Valves
A valve used for block and control functions. The closure is a resilient
diaphragm seating in the valve body. The diaphragm also provides
the joint between the body and bonnet and often the stem seal as well.
Diaphragm valves are either manually operated by a handwheel
closing device or by fluid pressure, normally air. Manually operated
valves are typically of multi-turn operation.
Diaphragm valves have straight through flow or weir configurations

employing the flexing method and may be used for low pressure
chemical plant process for on/off or regulating operation of most
gases and liquids, e.g. slurries, viscous fluids and fluids which are
chemically aggressive. They are supplied with various types of
diaphragms and linings. Standard valves are normally supplied with
mallable iron bodies which are not acceptable for petrochemical
duties. Steel valves are available, diaphragms are subject to wear and
frequent maintenance may be required for regularly used valves. The
pressure/temperature limitations are severely restricted by the limits of
the membrane.
The standard body configurations are:-
(a) Weir type valve
(i) Tight shut-off is obtained with comparatively low

operating force and short diaphragm movement.
(ii) Longer diaphragm life, reduced maintenance.
(iii) Better throttling device than straight-through type,

although flow control is poor at very low flow rates.
(b) Straight-through type valve
(i) Better than weir type when handling viscous fluids,

thick slurries, and fluids containing deposits.
RP 62-1 PAGE 65
(ii) Longer diaphragm movement, which decreases
diaphragm life, increases maintenance and, requiring
more flexible diaphragm, limits the material to
elastomers.
Valves have operating temperatures limited by the material used for

the diaphragm or body lining.
Diaphragm valves generally do not require packing, and having only

three main parts - body, diaphragm, and bonnet assembly, may be
quickly dismantled for maintenance. Diaphragms may be changed in
place.
For very corrosive or toxic service a special bonnet, with packing box
to prevent leakage in the event of diaphragm failure, shall be
specified.
Valves shall comply with BS 5156.
Their operating temperature is normally between -65°C to 200°C

depending on the diaphragm material and any linings.
D7. Pinch Valves
D7.1 Pinch valves have straight through configurations and are basically a
reinforced rubber or elastomer tube or sleeve in a housing which is
pinched for closure.
D7.2 The sleeve may be exposed with flanged ends but generally it is
encased in a metal body. It is suitable for both pneumatic or
hydraulic control. An enclosed valve may also be used for vacuum
service subject to the manufacturers approval.
D7.3 Pinch valves are suitable for fine control or on-off operation on
abrasive slurries, fluids with suspended particles, powders or
corrosive chemicals.
D7.4 Valves are easily maintained with occasional replacement of sleeve.
D7.5 Pressure and temperature ratings are restricted by sleeve material.
D7.6 Valves are supplied to manufacturer’s standards.
D8. Sampling Valves
D8.1 Sampling valves are small bore valves generally similar to flush
bottom valves, designed to draw off fluids from process streams, and
RP 62-1 PAGE 66
are screwed into a half coupling or threadolet type fitting welded to a
vessel or pipe.
D8.2 Valves are suitable for use with liquids or slurries, and because they
are flush bottomed create a minimum of turbulence.
D8.3 Valve design assures a free flowing sample, because the piston takes
up the whole interior of the valve in the closed position so that
sediment cannot accumulate.
D8.4 The piston travels through a PTFE seal which may allow leakage
unless the gland packing is compressed correctly. With too much
compression the seal will flow inward, preventing reinsertion of the
piston.
D8.5 As operation of the valve requires long piston travel, it will be slow to
open or close.
D8.6 Sampling valves described above should only be used when the
conventional valving arrangement is not suitable, e.g. where plugging
can occur.
D8.7 Other types of sampling valves are available, generally as small bore
instrument manifold blocks.
D9. Diverter Valves
(Other terms in use include multi-port or switching valve; also changeover valve).
The principal function is to divert one or more flow streams whilst
preventing intermixing.
Diverter valves can replace several block valves but are not commonly
used except in chemical process applications. Multi-port designs may
vary from three to five ports according to requirements. Operation is
normally by manual intervention either directly or indirectly, e.g.
powered actuators.
Types of valves that are suitable for diverting flow are limited and
include:-
Plug valves (most common)

Ball valves
Globe valves
RP 62-1 PAGE 67
APPENDIX E
VALVE TYPES FOR PREVENTION OFFLOW REVERSAL (CHECK)
E1. General
E1.1 Installation & Process Design Considerations of Check Valves
E1.2 The self-acting (or self-operating) principle introduces

dynamic response as well as static (e.g. flow configuration)
considerations and valve characteristics should be selected
that provide:-
(a) Free and unrestricted movement of the closure member,

which, under normal operating conditions should be
kept fully open against its stop. Oversizing should be
avoided since this can lead to partial opening which
may result in chatter of the valve against its seat or disk
stop and excessive wear of active components.
Manufacturers sizing data should be consulted when
sizing check valves.
(b) Full closure under back pressure conditions with

adequate seat loading to minimise through leakage. In
some cases, particularly where pressures are very low
and sizing only provides a partial solution, it may be
necessary to consider supplementary loading. This can
be achieved in some designs by additional weighting or
stronger spring loading of the closure member.
(c) Closure response that is of sufficiently short duration to

prevent back flow problems (e.g. reverse rotation of
pumps or compressors) and avoids shock loading (valve
slam or water hammer) that could otherwise cause
excessively high pressure surge and possibly result in
damage to the valve, piping system and ancillaries, e.g.
pump and compressors. In general, surge should be
considered when normal fluid velocities exceed
4.5m/sec for liquids or 27.5 m/sec for gases and
whenever operating pressures are close to the design
pressure of the piping system. Note that:-
(i) Comparison of predicted against required speed

of valve closure, duration and closing force to
prevent excessive back flow and surge pressure
RP 62-1 PAGE 68
may be qualitatively assessed or subject to
detailed analysis if very critical. Calculations
should be based on process data and
manufacturers valve data. In general terms, a
valve that closes at a mean velocity equal to or
less than the normal flow velocity should avoid
excessive surge pressure.
Lower closing velocities may be acceptable under

certain conditions, e.g. on single pump systems
for long pipelines where the terminal back
pressure and maximum elevation are low. High
closing velocities may be necessary on parallel
pumping systems to prevent back flow into a
failed pump. Supplementary loading can
improve the response of some valves.
(ii) Generally, check valves with a short

displacement and low inertia of the closure
member, supplemented by spring loading,
provide the most rapid response and lowest
shock loading at closure. Smaller sizes of
valves generally provide the fastest closing
response.
(d) Stable operation to avoid rapid fluctuation in

movement of the closure member due, for example, to
large variations in operating pressure or smaller
variations with pulsing flow, which can lead to valve
chatter, excessive wear and poor reliability. Damping
devices such as dashpots can be fitted to some designs
to improve valve stability.
Note that damping at final closure may also be

required to prevent shock loading by slamming of the
valve onto its seat. This may be a requirement in
systems where extremely rapid flow reversals occur,
e.g. with compressible fluids.
In addition it may also be necessary to consider the

following:-
(e) Frequency of flow reversal occurrences, which, if

numerous, may have an adverse affect on wear and
reliability of valve components in some designs.
RP 62-1 PAGE 69
(f) Flow resistance (pressure drop). Resistance to flow
varies widely in different designs and also generally
increases with smaller valve sizes. Low resistance is
achieved in some designs by alternate valve patterns in
which the closure member and seats are inclined
towards rather than normal to the flow path.
Generally, designs which provide easiest pigging etc.
are most susceptible to inducing pressure surges and
flutter.
(g) Location of the valve bore in either the horizontal or

vertical plane. A vertical location can adversely affect
the response of some types of check valves, depending
on the pattern and should be avoided if possible. The
direction of normal flow may also affect closing force
requirements. Generally, flow in an upward direction
is preferred and flow in a downward direction should
be avoided. Swing check valves should never be used
with downward flow. The manufacturer should always
be advised of the intended valve location and, if
vertical, the direction of flow.
E2. Valve Categories
E2.1 Check valves may be broadly divided into three main

categories. These comprise the lift check valve, based on
linear motion of the closure member; the swing check valve,
based on rotary (angular) motion of the closure member and
the diaphragm check valve which operates by flexing of a
membrane. There are a number of variations in design of all
three types. Characteristics of each design vary considerably
and should be considered in selecting valves for particular
requirements.
E3. Lift Check Valves
E3.1 A lift check valve is one in which the check mechanism

incorporates a disk, piston or ball. Lift type check mechanisms
are:-
(a) Disk: the mechanism is, or incorporates a disk.
(b) Piston: the mechanism consists of a piston and cylinder

which provide a cushioning effect during operation.
(c) Ball: the mechanism is a ball.
RP 62-1 PAGE 70
E3.2 Free and unrestricted movement of the closure member may be
difficult to achieve with lift check valves since the majority of
designs depend on close guiding of the closure member. The
ingress of dirty or viscous fluids can result in slow response or
even jamming unless considered in the design, especially of
piston and disc check valves. Ball check valves tend to be less
affected due to freer guiding of the ball. For gritty liquids
composition disks are available. Most designs cause a
relatively high pressure drop.
Full closure under back pressure conditions is often provided

by supplementary spring loading due to weight limitations of
closure members for most lift check valves, e.g. ball, disc and
piston check valves. Sizing of ball and piston check valves
tends to be limited to about 2 in. NB due to the limited weight
of ball and piston.
E3.3 Closure response of lift check valves is potentially fast due to

the inherent characteristic of a short travel (lift) compared
with other types of check valve and the low inertia of the
closure member due to its light weight. Thus, the ball, disc and
piston type check valves are suitable for many applications
which could result in surge problems for other types of valves.
E3.4 Stable operation to avoid rapid fluctuations in movement of the

closure member cannot be provided by ball check valves which
should not be used with widely varying pressures, pulsing flow
and frequent flow reversals. Piston and disc check valves may
perform better but under severe conditions it may be necessary
to consider a damping device.
E3.5 Low resistance to flow is not a characteristic of lift check

valves of the ball, disc and piston type due to their tortuous
configuration. However, where low resistance is required
special patterns of ‘Y’ or oblique type are available that can
substantially reduce the resistance to flow.
E3.6 Location of the valve bore in horizontal or vertical plane

requires careful consideration with lift check valves of the ball,
disc and piston type which depend on the force of gravity
acting on the closure member. Spring-loaded types may
operate at any orientation. Consequently these are the only
type of lift check valve which can be used in vertical pipes.
RP 62-1 PAGE 71
E3.7 Consideration should be given to the use of nozzle check valves
where the normal range of check valves are found to be
unsuitable, e.g. in preventing excessive pressure surge or
providing adequate stability with wide pressure variations,
pulsing flow and frequent flow reversals.
This design is typically selected for onerous duties, providing a

rapid closure by spring loading. Stability is claimed to be
improved by additional forces to open the valve through use of
the venturi principle in the design of flow passages through the
body. Sliding parts are largely shrouded from the flowing
process fluid by the central housing. A low pressure drop is
claimed and the valve can be mounted either horizontally or
vertically. Although uncommon several manufacturers
produce this design to high standards.
E3.8 Plate check valves which use flexible metallic plates or

membranes are normally fitted to compressors. This type of
valve provides a very fast closing response and is particularly
suited to pulsing flow with compressible fluids. The frequency
of flow pulsations may require special consideration of design
to avoid plate flutter. Generally, designs are limited to a low
differential pressure across the valve. Designs are suitable for
mounting either horizontally or vertically.
E4. Swing Check Valves
E4.1 A check valve in which the mechanism incorporates a disk

which swings on a hinge, the free and unrestricted movement of
the disk is, in general, easily achieved. The bearing assemblies
for the hinge and disc are better shrouded from the flow stream
and thus dirty and viscous fluids are less able to obtain ingress
and hinder rotation of the closure member.
Swing check valves are used over a much larger size range
than lift check valves. Typically swing check valves are
available from 2 in. NB up to 24 in. NB and greater but weight
and travel of the disc may become excessive in very large sizes
and may require special designs for satisfactory operation.
E4.2 Swing check valves may be specified for horizontal or vertical

upward flow on low velocity or highly viscous fluids.
Composition disks are available for gritty fluids or positive
shut-off at low pressure.
They are unsuitable for frequent flow reversal or pulsating

flow, when installed in a system sensitive to sudden flow
RP 62-1 PAGE 72
reversal. A balance weight or dashpot should be specified. A
balance weight may be required when valve has to open under
minimum pressure.
E4.3 Full closure under back pressure conditions may be

supplemented in the conventional and tilting disc designs by
additional weighting of the disc or by an external weighted
lever arm or spring attached to a shaft extension through the
body. The latter introduces the additional complication of a
gland to seal the extension arm and may result in excessive
closing force (shock loading) unless a damper is fitted.
E4.4 Closure response of swing check valves is generally slower

compared with lift check valves. This is mainly due to the long
travel of the disc during rotation from fully open to closed and
is also subject to the inertia of the closure member, depending
on the mass (weight) and moment arm of the disc and hinge
arm.
E4.5 Conventional type swing check valves have the slowest

response due to the high inertia of the disc and swing arm,
usually hinged outside the main flow stream. Although widely
used, they are generally best suited to gravity flow and pumped
(liquid) systems where flow velocities are relatively low.
Improved operating characteristic result from reducing the
travel by inclining the seat and disc towards each other and
whenever possible the angle between the seat and the fully
open position of the disk should be restricted to 65 degrees.
Another method of reducing inertia is by locating the hinge
axis at the edge of the disc.
E4.6 Tilting disc check valves incorporate a disk which swings on a

hinge and is parallel to, but above the horizontal axis of the
piping. They are a variant of the conventional type and have a
faster response by virture of a shorter path of travel of the disc
centre of gravity and reduced inertia of the disc. The flow
resistance however is greater than that of conventional valves.
Tilting disk check valves are generally used as ‘non-slam’
valves, since closure at instant of reversal of flow is most
nearly attained.
E4.7 Split disc valves also provide a fast response due to a short
path of travel of the half disc centre of gravity, the low inertia
resulting from the light weight (low axis) and short moment
arm of the half disc allied to the use of closing springs. Split
disc check valves are better suited than the conventional type
to high flow velocities, e.g. compressible flow.
RP 62-1 PAGE 73
Swing check valves of the split disc type depend on internal
spring loading for closure and supplementary loading can be
provided by stronger springs if required.
E4.8 Timing of closure cannot alleviate all shock conditions at a

check valve, typical applications being:-
(i) Cessation of pressure at the valve inlet produces

flashing of the decelerating fluid downstream from the
valve.
(ii) Stoppage of flow is caused by a sudden closure of a

valve some distance downstream from the check valve,
and the stoppage is followed by returning water
hammer.
For these applications slower closure may be necessary, in

which case the tilting disk valve should be equipped with an
external dashpot.
They are suitable to use in viscous service and have less

pressure drop at low velocities and more pressure drop at high
velocities than a swing type valve.
E4.9 Stable operation to avoid rapid fluctuations in movement of the

closure member can be a problem with swing check valves.
Stability of conventional and tilting disc check valves may be
improved by fitting an external damping device (dashpot) via
an external shaft extension through the body with the
additional complication of a gland. A damping device is
sometimes required to prevent shock loading (water hammer)
during seating of the closure. Split disc check valves are more
difficult to damp, particularly since external methods cannot
be employed to control the floating action of the split discs.
Generally, swing check valves should be avoided where

unstable conditions are likely, e.g. wide velocity variations,
pulsing flow and frequent flow reversals. Under certain
conditions fretting at hinge axis and even mechanical failure
may occur.
Check valves are extremely sensitive to upstream piping

features and elbows, valves etc. located immediately upstream
can have a disastrous effect on performance. Such features
should never be nearer to the check valve than three pipe
diameters.
RP 62-1 PAGE 74
E4.10 Low resistance to flow is a particular advantage of swing check
valves due to the straight through flow configuration,
depending on the angle of opening at operating conditions.
The conventional flapper valve in some special designs may
also be suitable for pigging due to hinging of swing arms
outside the valve bore. Split disc valves tend to have a greater
resistance to flow as the size decreases due to the obstruction
of the body centre web (sealing each half of the split discs)
which reduces the area of flowpath.
E4.11 Location of the valve bore is generally best suited to the

horizontal plane. Location in a vertical plane requires careful
consideration. Conventional and tilting disc valves must
always be located with flow in an upward direction but the
design must prevent the disc from reaching a stalling position
when fully open. It should also be recognised that in the fully
open vertical position the disc/swing arm has a very small
closing moment, further reducing response unless
supplementary loading is used with possible complication of
damping. Split disc check valves are more suited to vertical
applications but preferably with flow in an upward direction.
They may be considered for downward flow applications when
stronger springs can be selected to suit the operating
conditions.
E4.12 Swing check valves may also be provided in the following

additional types:-
(a) Screw-Down Stop and Check

(b) Wafer
(c) Spring Operated Non-Slam
(d) Foot
E4.13 The preferred sizing of check valves is such that at minimum

normal sustained flow the check mechanism will be held
against the stop in the fully open position. Applications in gas
or steam lines, or in liquid lines with low or unsteady flow
should be fully described in the purchase specification so that
the manufacturer can evaluate the suitability of the valve
design. The non-slam characteristics of check valves in
compressor piping systems shall be compatible with the
compressor manufacturer’s requirements.
RP 62-1 PAGE 75
E5. Diaphragm Check Valves
E5.1 Although less commonly used than conventional lift or swing

check valves, the diaphragm check valve has a number of
characteristics and should be considered with the pressure and
temperature limitations or restrictions of the flexible
membrane that forms the closure member.
E5.2 Free unrestricted movement, full closure and fast closure

response are all characteristics of the diaphragm check valve.
They also have the ability to handle viscous or abrasive fluids
and slurries more reliably than other types of check valve.
Small sizes are usually of the cone type and larger sizes are
typically of the nozzle type. The design can also provide stable
operation with pressure variations, pulsing flow and frequent
flow reversals, but care is required in the selection of suitable
durable materials for reliability of the membrane.
Location may be either with the bore horizontal or vertical.

Data on flow resistance is not currently available.
E6. Piston Type Check Valves
E6.1 The designs available include straight through and oblique

patterns, pilot pressure energises the piston to open or close
during a reversal situation. The seating load to hold the
closure (i.e. a piston) shut may be supplied from a system
pressure via a pilot, an external load or a combination of both.
General features are as follows:-
(a) Generally used on line sizes below 2 in. NPS. This

valve has a dashpot.
(b) Causes relatively high pressure drop.
(c) Spring loaded type may operate at any orientation,

other types should be installed so that the piston will
close by gravity.
(d) Suitable for frequent, but not sudden, flow reversal and
pulsating flow duties.
(e) Unsuitable for gritty or dirty fluid service.
(f) Is equipped with an orifice to control the rate of

movement of the piston. As the orifice used on a liquid
RP 62-1 PAGE 76
service is considerably larger than an orifice for a gas
service, a valve designed for gas service should not be
used in liquid service unless the orifice in the piston is
changed.
E7. Screw-Down Stop and Check Valves
E7.1 A valve in which the disc is held closed by a valve stem which
can also be retracted to permit free movement of the disc.
Generally used in steam generation by multiple boilers, where
a valve is installed between each boiler and the main steam
header. These are normally of the globe type, but swing type
are also available (para. E3.12(a)). Other varieties are also
available (e.g. check feed valves).
E8. Wafer Check Valves
E8.1 General features are as follows:-
(a) A check valve that is installed between pipe flanges and

in which the mechanism consists of a single or dual
plate swinging on a hinge.
(b) Reduced bore type generally available, in line sizes 2

in. NPS and above.
(c) Single plate type causes high pressure drop, and is

unsuitable for use on low flow and low pressure gas
services.
(d) Dual plate type utilises a spring to effect closure rather

than reverse flow pressure and may be used to minimise
water hammer. For faster response a higher torque
spring may be specified, in which case account should
be taken of the resulting higher pressure drop.
(e) Dual plate type may be installed for flow in any

direction, including vertically downward for certain
sizes - confirm with manufacturer.
(f) Dual plate type generally suitable for use on liquid or

vapour service, but not recommended for slurry service.
(g) Requires to be removed from line for repair.
RP 62-1 PAGE 77
(h) A wafer check valve shall not be used in flammable or
toxic service due to the possibility, in the event of fire,
of expansion of the bolts and subsequent flange
leakage. When a wafer check valve is used and a fire
hazard exists, a light gauge stainless steel shroud shall
be wrapped around the valve and exposed bolts,
irrespective of service.
(i) It is essential to ensure that the plates do not foul

adjacent valves or connected pipework.
E9. Spring Operated Non-Slam Check Valves
E9.1 This is an axial flow valve, used specifically on compressor

discharge lines subject to pulsating or low flow conditions
where a tilting disk type valve may ‘chatter’.
E9.2 This valve may be used on liquid systems, as an alternative to

tilting disk type valves. It offers the least resistance to flow of
any check valve type.
E10. Foot Valves
E10.1 Generally installed at suction inlet of a pump to maintain

prime. Valve may be fitted with a strainer to keep dirt and
other foreign matter from entering the pump suction.
E11. Check Valve Standards
(a) Steel swing check valves shall comply with BS 1868 or

API Spec. 6D. Full port valves are specified to BS
1868 or API Spec. 6D, regular port valves are specified
to API Spec. 6D.
(b) Cast iron swing check valves shall comply with BS

5153.
(c) Steel lift check valves below 2 in. NB:-
(i) Classes 150 to 800 shall comply with BS 5352.
(ii) Class 1500 shall comply with BS 5352 or be to

manufacturer’s standard.
(iii) Class 2500 shall comply with BS 1868 or be to

RP 62-1 PAGE 78
(d) Steel lift check valves size 2 in. NB and above shall
comply with BS 1868 or be to manufacturer’s standard.
(e) Steel screw-down stop and check valves below 2 in. NB.
(i) Classes 150 to 800 shall comply with BS 5352.
(ii) Class 1500 shall comply with BS 5352 or be to

(iii) Class 2500 shall comply with BS 1873 or be to

(f) Steel screw-down stop and check valves sizes 2 in. NB

and above shall comply with BS 1873 or be to
(g) Wafer check valves shall comply with API Standard

594.
(h) Tilting disk check valves are to manufacturer’s

standard.
(i) Spring operated non-slam check valves are to

RP 62-1 PAGE 79
APPENDIX F
This Commentary relates to clauses 3.2 and 3.3.
List of figures illustrating individual valve types
Figure Valve Type
F1 : Gate Valves: Wedge Gate (Straight through)

Wedge Gate (Venturi Pattern)
Parallel Slide Gate
Parallel Double Disc Gate
Conduit Slab Gate
Knife Edge Gate
F2 : Globe Valves: Globe (ball type)

Globe (plug type)
Globe (needle pattern)
Globe (angle type)
Globe (oblique type)
F3 : Check Valves: Swing Check

Screwdown Stop & Check
Lift Check (disk type)
Lift Check (piston type)
Lift Check (ball type)
Lift Check (in-line ball type)
Axial Flow Check
Dual-disk Wafer Check
Tilting disk Check
Foot Check Valve
F4 : Ball Valves: One piece Body Ball

Split Body Ball
Split Body (sandwich type) Ball
F5 : Butterfly Valves: Double/Single Flange,
‘U’ Section and Flangeless
Wafer Types
F6 : Plug Valves: Lubricated Taper Plug

Pressure Balance Taper Plug
Lubricated Parallel Plug
Lift Plug
RP 62-1 PAGE 80
F7 : Diaphragm Valves: Weir Type Diaphragm
Straight-through Diaphragm
F8 : Special Purpose Valves: Pinch Valve

Flush Bottom Valve
Sampling Valve
Air Vent Valve
Deluge Valve
Float Operated Valve
Bellows Sealed Globe
F9: Special Purpose Valves: Diverter Valve (globe type)

Excess Flow Valve
F10: Port and Stop Arrangements

Multiple Port Valves
RP 62-1 PAGE 81
Ref Name of part
1 Handwheel nut
2 Handwheel
3 Stem nut
4 Yoke
5 Yoke bolting
6 Stem
7 Gland flange
8 Gland
9 Gland bolting or gland
eyebolts and nuts
10 Gland lug bolts and nuts
11 Stem wiper packing
12 Stem packing
13 Plug
14 Lantern
15 Backseat bushing
16 Bonnet
17 Bonnet gasket
18 Bonnets bolts and nuts
19 Gate
20 Seat ring
21 Body
22 One piece gland
(alternative)
23 Valve part
24 Seal opening
Ref Name of Parts

Ref Name of Parts 1 Body
1 Body 2 Yoke
2 Bonnet yoke and cover 3 Cover
3 Spindle 4 Spindle
4 Seat 5 Seat
5 Disk 6 Plate
6 Wedge 7 Conduit ring
FIGURE F1 (part 1 of 2 ) GATE VALVES
RP 62-1 PAGE 82
Ref Name of parts
1 Handwheel
2 Bridge
3 Piller
4 Stem
5 Gland
6 Gland packing
7 Bonnet
8 Bonnet gasket
9 Body
10 Body seal ring
11 Disk
12 Disk spring
13 Disk facing ring
Ref. Name of part

1 Handwheel
2 Bridge
3 Stem
4 Piller
5 Gland
6 Packing
7 Knife
8 Body
FIGURE F1 ( part 2 of 2 ) GATE VALVES
RP 62-1 PAGE 83
REF Name of parts
1 Handwheel retaining nut

2 Handwheel
3 Yoke bush nut
4 Yoke bush
5 Stem
6 Gland stud bolt nut
7 Gland flange
8 Gland end piece bushed type
9 Gland end piece type
10 Gland follower
11 Gland bush
12 Gland stud bolt
13 Gland bolt hinged type
14 Gland packing
14a Wiper rings
15 Yoke
16 Bonnet
17 Lantern ring
18 Bonnet flange
18a Body/bonnet flange
19 Bonnet stud bolt nut
20 Bonnet stud bolt
21 Back seat bushing
22 Body
23 Bonnet gasket
24 Disk ball type
25 Disk plug type
26 Disk nut
27 Disk nut back seat type
28 Disk thrust plate
29 Seat ring shoulder seated
30 Seat ring bottom seated
31 Body boss
32 End flange
33 Condensing chamber
34 Pressure relief plug boss
FIGURE F2 ( PART 1 0F 2 ) GLOBE VALVES
RP 62-1 PAGE 84
Ref Name of parts
1 Hand wheel nut

2 Hand wheel
3 Stem
4 Gland nut
5 Gland
6 Packing
7 Bonnet
8 Body
9 Needle disk
10 Seat
Ref Name of part

1 Body
2 Bonnet
3 Body seat ring
4 Bonnet gasket
5 Disk
6 Yoke
7 Disk thrust plate
8 Handwheel
9 Handwheel retaining nut
10 Yoke bush
11 Gland flange
12 Gland follower
13 Stem
14 Back seat bushing
15 Disk nut
16 Lantern ring
17 Stem packing
18 Bonnet stud bolt
19 Nut for gland stud bolt
20 Gland stud bolt
21 Nut for gland stud bolt
22 Body/bonnet flange
23 Bonnet flange
24 End flange
FIGURE F2 ( PART 2 OF 2 ) GLOBE VALVES
RP 62-1 PAGE 85
Ref Name of part
1
Cover
2
Cover gasket
3
4 Hinge pin
5 Pipe plug ( not shown )
6 Hinge
7 Disk retaining nut
8 with pin
9 Seat ring
10 Body
Ref Name of part
1 Body
2 Bonnet
3 Body seat ring
4 Bonnet gasket
5 Disk
6 Stem
7 Disc nut
8 Body/bonnet flange
9 Bonnet flange
FIGURE F3 (PART 1 0F 3 ) CHECK VALVES
RP 62-1 PAGE 86
Ref Name of part
1 Body
2 Seat
3 Valve disc
4 Stainless steel rod
5 P.T.F.E bearing
6 Spring
7 Soft seal ring
FIGURE F3 (PART 2 0F 3 ) CHECK VALVES
RP 62-1 PAGE 87
FIGURE F3 (PART 3 OF 3) CHECK VALVES
RP 62-1 PAGE 88
Ref Name of part
1 Body
2 Insert
3 Ball
4 Stem
5 Trunnion
6 Gland
7 Gland nut
8 Cover
9 Cover bolting
10 Body seat rings
11 Wrench
12 Body plug
13 Insert seal
14 Fire safe gasket
15 Stem seal
16 Gland packing
17 Cover seal
Ref Name of part
1 Body
2 Body connector
3 Body connector gasket
4 Trunnion
5 Insert
6 Ball
7 Stem
8 Stem seal
9 Gland
10 Gland bolts
11 Indicator
12 Body seal rings
13 Wrench
14 Wrench nut
15 Body connector bolting
16 Body plug
17 Insert seal
18 Fire safe gasket
FIGURE F4 BALL VALVES (PART1 OF 2 )
RP 62-1 PAGE 89
Ref Name of part
1 Body
2 Body connector
3 Ball
4 Stem
5 Body seal ring
6 Body connector seal
7 Gland packing
8 Stem seal
9 Gland
10 Gland nut
11 Wrench nut
12 Wrench
13 Body connector bolting
14 Disk spring
15 Body marking plate
16 Wrench sleeve
FIGURE F4 BALL VALVES PART 2. OF 2 )
RP 62-1 PAGE 90
Ref Name of part
1 Stem
2 Gland
3 Body
4 Bearing
5 Thrust washer
6 Stem/disk pin
7 Thrust washer
8 Bearing
9 Packing
10 Seal spring
11 Seal
12 Disk
FIGURE F5 BUTTERFLY VALVES
RP 62-1 PAGE 91
Ref Name of part
1 Combinator lubricant screw

2 Check valve
3 O ring
4 Bolts
5 Top cover
6 Taper plug
7 Body
8
Gasket
9
Flexible Plate
10
11 Press ring
12 Adjustable screw
13 Nut
14 Bottom screw
15 Stop
16 Stop plate
17 Snap ring
Sealing Ring
Ref Name of part
1 Operating Square
2 Stem bearing
3 V - ring
4 Sealing ring
5 Gasket
6 Thrust plate
7 Body
8 Ball seat
9 Bottom cover
10 Ball
11 Pressure screw
12 Bottom screw
13 Studs
14 Retaining ring
15 Diaphragm
16 Plug
17 Equaliser ring
18 Operating stem
19 O ring
20 Stop
21 Check valve
22 Parallel key
23 Nut for stem
24 Lubricant screw
25 Spring
26 Ball
27 Diaphragm
FIGURE F6 PLUG VALVES ( PART 1 OF 2 )
RP 62-1 PAGE 92
Ref Name of part
1 Operating square
2 Stem bearing
3 V ring
4 Sealing ring
5 Gasket
6 Thrust plate
7 Body
8 Gasket
9 Bottom cover
10 Bottom screw
11 Plug
12 Equailser ring
13 Operating stem
14 O ring
15 Stop
16 Check valve
17 Parallel key
18 Nut for stem
19 Lubricant screw
20 Nuts
21 Stud
Ref Name of part
1 Plug
2 Yoke bonnet
3 Stem
4 Pkg, gland flange
5 Bonnet gasket
6 Indicator keeper pin
7 Body
8 Bonnet stud nut
9 Packing gland
10 Eyebolt
11 Bonnet stud
12 Eyebolt nut
13 Plug key
14 Eyebolt keeper pin
15 Packing
16 Lubricating fitting
17 Operating nut
18 O ring
FIGURE F7 DIAPHRAGM VALVES ( PART 1 OF 2 )
RP 62-1 PAGE 93
Ref Name of part
1 Handwheel
2 Handwheel pin
3 Felt washer
4 Thrust race
5 Washer
6 Spindle nut
7 Compressor
8 Spindle
9 Bonnet
10 Diaphragm
11 Body
FIGURE F7 DIAPHRAGM VALVES ( PART 2 OF 2 )
RP 62-1 PAGE 94
Ref Name of part
1 Seal ring
2 Plunger
3 Comp. ring
4 Index ball
5 Lower gland
6 Body
7 Upper gland
8 Springcones
9 Washer
10 Lock washer
11 Lock nut
12 Coupling
13 Bonnet
14 Spindle
15 Handle
16 Washer
17 Nut
FIGURE F8 ( PART 1 OF 2 ) SPECIAL PURPOSE VALVES
RP 62-1 PAGE 95
FIGURE F8 ( PART 2 OF 2 ) SPECIAL PURPOSE VALVES
RP 62-1 PAGE 96
Ref Name of part Ref Name of part
1 Body 9 Packing
2 Body 10 Gland
3 Seat 11 Gland flange
4 Disc 12 Yoke brushing
5 Disc pad 13 Indicator
6 Stem 14 Hand wheel
7 Disc nut 15 Stud bolt
8 Bonnet 16 Nut
Ref Name of part
01 Body
02 Bonnet
04 Guide bushing
06 Spring
07 Disc
10 Vortex bushing
11 Control brushing
12 Stem
13 Adjustment bolt
14 PIN
15 Ball
25 Drainplug
26 Hex screw
30 O-ring
31 TEC ring
32 TEC ring
FIGURE F9 SPECIAL PURPOSE VALVES
RP 62-1 PAGE 97
EXHAUST EXHAUST
S
L R L R R s L R L L R
L R
C C SUPPLY SUPPLY C C
s
POSITION 1 POSITION 2 POSITION 1 POSITION 2 POSITION 1 POSITION 2
ARRANGEMENT No1 - 3 WAY 2 ARRANGEMENT No 2 - 4 WAY ARRANGEMENT No 3 - 3 WAY 3

PORT 90 DEGREE TURN - TWO 4 PORT 90 DEGREE TURN - PORT 90 DEGREE TURN - TWO
POSITIONS TWO POSITIONS POSITIONS
s s
L R L R L R L R L R L R
C C C C C C
s
ARRANGEMENT No 4 - 3 WAY 3 ARRANGEMENT No 5 - 3 WAY 3 ARRANGEMENT No 6 - 3 WAY 3

PORT 90 DEGREE TURN - TWO PORT 90 DEGREE TURN - TWO PORT 90 DEGREE TURN - TWO
POSITIONS POSITIONS POSITIONS
s s
s L R L R L R s s L R L R L R
C C C C C C
s
ARRANGEMENT No 7 - 3 WAY 3
ARRANGEMENT No 8 - 3 WAY 3
PORT 90 DEGREE TURN -
PORT 180 DEGREE TURN -
THREE POSITIONS
THREE POSITIONS
s s
L R L R L R L R s L R L R
C C C C C C
s
ARRANGEMENT No 9 - 3 WAY 3 ARRANGEMENT No 10 - 3 WAY

PORT 180 DEGREE TURN - 3 PORT 180 DEGREE TURN -
THREE POSITIONS THREE POSITIONS
s L R L R L R s L R L R s L R
L R
C C C C C C
C
s
POSITION 1 POSITION 2 POSITION 3 POSITION 4 POSITION 1 POSITION 2 POSITION 3
ARRANGEMENT No 11 - 3 WAY ARRANGEMENT No 12 - 3 WAY

3 PORT 270 DEGREE TURN - 2 PORT 180 DEGREE TURN -
FOUR POSITIONS THREE POSITIONS
S S
L R L R L R L R L R L R S
C C C C C C
s s
ARRANGEMENT No 13 - 3 WAY ARRANGEMENT No 14 - 3 WAY

2 PORT180 DEGREE TURN - 2 PORT 270 DEGREE TURN -
FOUR POSITIONS THREE POSITIONS
FIGURE F10 PORT AND STOP ARRANGEMENTS (PAGE 1 0F 2) MULTIPLE

PORT VALVES
RP 62-1 PAGE 98
HOW TO ORDER - WHEN ORDERING MULTIPLE PORT VALVES, SPECIFY THE SIZE,
FIGURE NUMBER AND THE PORT AND STOP ARRANGEMENT, ( WHEN MULTIPLE PORT
VALVES ARE INVERTED, THE ARRANGEMENT REVERSES.)
COMPARISION OF REGULAR AND TRANSFLOW MULTIPLE PORT VALVES

REGULAR PATTERN - FOR SWITCHING WITH CUT-OFF BETWEEN POSITIONS
TRANSFLOW PATTERN - FOR SWITCHING WITHOUT CUT-OFF BETWEEN POSITIONS
3 - WAY, 3 - PORT
REGULAR s L R L L R L R L R s
TYPE VALVE
S
C C C C C
s S
TRANSFLOW s L R L L R L R L R s
TYPE VALVE
S
C C C C C
s S
POSITION 1 POSITION 2 POSITION 3
3 - WAY, 2 - PORT POSITIVE SHUT OFF
REGULAR s L R L R L R s
TYPE VALVE
S
C C C
FIG 1 FIG 2
TRANSFLOW s L R L R L R s
TYPE VALVE
S
NEGATIVE SHUT OFF
C C C
POSITION 1 POSITION 2
FIG 3 FIG 4
FIGURE F10 PORT AND STOP ARRANGEMENTS (PAGE 2 0F 2) MULTIPLE

PORT VALVES
RP 62-1 PAGE 99
APPENDIX G
MATERIALS
G1. General
G1.1 For most applications and non-corrosive duties, carbon steel is

normally used for the pressure retaining boundary. For high
temperature applications creep resisting steel may be specified.
Alloy steel, stainless steel, nickel alloys, plastics, rubber lined
or other special materials may be required on corrosive
services or where there are clean or other special
requirements.
G1.2 Materials for low temperature service (down to -50°C) may be

carbon or alloy steel with impact test requirements.
Aluminium or stainless steel may be specified for cyrogenic
service (-50°C to -196°C). Further requirements for low
temperature applications are provided in Appendix X of BP
Group RP 42-1.
* G1.3 Cast iron valves should not be used except for underground
water services, subject to the approval of BP.
G1.4 Materials used for valve trim should be suitable for exposure
to the line fluid. Seating components may require to be
manufactured from, or faced with, a hard material (e.g. nickel
alloy, tungsten carbide, stellite etc.), to withstand wear, erosion
and wire drawing. Performance of hard facings may depend
on the suitability of the substrate material particularly at low
temperatures. Materials for valve stems should be chosen with
a view to avoiding galling when in contact with glands,
trunnion bearings etc.
G2. Materials for Fire Hazard Areas
G2.1 Where fire is a possibility the following materials should not be

used for valve components in flammable or toxic service:-
(a) Cast, malleable, wrought or nodular iron.
(b) Brittle or low melting point materials such as aluminium, brass

or plastics.
RP 62-1 PAGE 100

Note: Plastic linings and seals may only be used in fire
hazardous areas subject to approval by BP, where the nature
of the fluid prohibits the use of fire resistant materials.
G2.2 When choosing materials care should be taken to avoid

galvanic action between dissimilar materials.
G3. Elastomers and plastics
G3.1. Some elastomers and plastics may be subject to swelling when

used with particular fluids (e.g. nitrile rubber is not suitable in
de-ironised water, nylon may swell with water).
G3.2 Elastomeric materials in contact with gaseous hydrocarbons

shall be of a type not prone to high gas permeation rates
resulting in failure when subject to a sudden pressure drop
(explosive decompression). Materials appear to be most
sensitive to rapid pressure reductions occurring below 70 bar
when pressures have previously been higher. Harder materials
(e.g. 90 durometer) are more resistant than soft materials and
special, explosive decompression resistant grades have been
developed for this service. Note that, because of defects
inherent in the manufacturing process, it is difficult to make
any elastomer resistant where the section size exceeds 5.33
mm.
G3.3 Valve pressure-temperature ratings are limited when non-

metallic materials (PTFE, nylon, rubber) are used for seats,
seals, linings and gaskets. For example Virgin PTFE is
normally limited to a maximum operating temperature of
200°C. (Note that this may be increased marginally by the use
of a suitable filler, e.g. glass. A guide to temperature limits
can be found in BP Group GS 142-7 and most valve
manufacturers publish pressure/temperature rating curves for
their valves.
G4. High Temperature Service
G4.1 For high temperature (generally above 400ºC) power station

steam services 2 ¼% Cr 1% Mo or ½% Cr, ½% Mo, ¼%
Vanadium steels are often chosen. The seats and disks will
require hard facing with alloys of cobalt, chromium and
tungsten and a difference between the hardness of the disk and
seat is recommended to avoid galling.
RP 62-1 PAGE 101

G5. Low Temperature Service
G5.1 For low temperature service (less than 0°C) most ferrous alloys
suffer a reduction in notch impact strength and require charpy
impact testing to demonstrate adequate toughness. The
following is a useful guide to the minimum Charpy V-notch
impact energy values which should be expected:
Average (Joules) = [min. specified yield (or 0.2% proof)

strength (MN/m2) / 10]
Individual (Joules) = 0.75 x Average
G5.2 Where materials are to be welded it is recommended that the

average impact energy value be increased by 10 Joules.
G5.3 Most non-ferrous materials such as copper, copper alloys and

nickel alloys are suitable for low temperature service. 2 ½%
nickel steels may be used down to -57°C and austenitic
stainless steels retain acceptable properties even under
cryogenic conditions.
G5.4 Cast iron should not be used for low temperature service.
G6. Anhydrous Ammonia Service
G6.1 Copper and copper based materials should not be used in this
service. Steels should have a maximum yield strength 350
N/mm2 (i.e.. low strength steel) and all welds in steel
components should be stress relieved.
G7. Chloride service and Environments
G7.1 Stainless steels may be susceptible to stress corrosion cracking

in chloride containing environments at temperatures above
60°C. depending on the concentration and stress level. For
purposes of hydrostatic testing, chloride content of the test
water should be limited to 30 ppm - lower if evaporation and
concentration is likely.
G8. Sour service
G8.1 Materials for sour service should comply with BP Group GS

136-1 which includes the requirements of NACE Standard MR-
0175. This limits the hardness of carbon steels, requires
RP 62-1 PAGE 102

austenitic steels to be solution annealed and provides special
requirements for bolting, welding, etc.
G9. Hydrogen Service
G9.1 Carbon steel may be used for hydrogen service up to a

maximum of 230°C. The material shall be selected in
accordance with API Std. 941 (Nelson Curves); the choice
depends upon the mixture of free hydrogen and other fluids at
particular hydrogen partial pressures and temperature
G10. Wet Co2 and Chlorine Service
G10.1 When choosing materials for wet C02 or wet chlorine service
specialist advice should be sought.
G11. Material Composition of Welding End Valves
G11.1 The chemical composition (by ladle analysis) of valve bodies

with butt weld or socket weld ends should be restricted as
follows:-
(a) Carbon and carbon-maganese steels
Carbon .... 0.25% max. (forgings and castings)

Carbon equivalent (C.E.)1 .... 0.42% max.
where
Mn
(C.E.)1 = C +
6
It is recommended that the steelmaker be required to
confirm that regular production checks show that the
carbon equivalent (C.E.)2 does not exceed 0.45%.
where
Mn Cr + Mo + V Cu + Ni
(C.E.)2 = C + + +
6 5 15
Note:- If necessary, in order to achieve minimum

specified strengths, it may be permissible to increase
the specified maximum maganese contents, as given in
the referenced specification, up to a maximum of 1.6%
provided the maximum permitted C.E. is not exceeded.
(b) Chromium-molybdenum steels
Steels with 2% Cr and less:

Carbon Max. = 0.20% (forgings and castings)
RP 62-1 PAGE 103

Steels with more than 2% Cr:
Carbon max. = 0.15%
Residual elements:
Copper ............... 0.30% max.
Nickel ............... 0.40% max.
Tungsten ............... 0.10% max.
Tin ............... 0.03% max.
G11.2 Austenitic stainless steel valves which are to be welded should

be manufactured from a low carbon grade (e.g. 304L, 316L) or
stabilised grade (e.g. 321) in order to avoid corrosion resulting
from the sensitization of the material.
G12. Plated Components
G12.1 When specifying valves (especially ball valves) for corrosive

service (e.g. produced water) it is necessary to take into
account the fact that plating is usually porous so that, if
problems are to be avoided, the base material must be
corrosion resistant (e.g. stainless steel). The following
guidelines are suggested for electroless nickel plate:-
(a) minimum plating thickness should be 0.08 mm;

(b) plating should be free of porisity;
(c) phosphorous content should be at least 10%;
(d) plating should have a maximum of 0.5% of elements
other than nickel and phosphorous;
(e) the heat treatment should be conducted in accordance
with a written procedure;
(f) the base material should be compatible with the plating
to ensure adequate bonding;
G12.2 Plating is rarely effective where the service is abrasive and

overlaid or sprayed coatings (e.g. tungsten carbide) are
generally preferred.
G13. Ball Valve Components
* G13.1 Ball valves should normally be supplied with stainless steel

balls. Chrome plated carbon steel balls should not be used.
Electroless nickel plated carbon steel balls may be considered
for non-corrosive service in which case the recommendations
of G14 apply.
RP 62-1 PAGE 104

G13.2 Balls and seats for abrasive service should be coated with
tungsten carbide, stellite or other appropriate material.
G14. Gland Packings and Stem Seals
G14.1 Compression packings consist of deformable materials such as

exfoliated graphite and carbon or polymer filament/yarn
woven into a braid. The material is typically in the form of a
box section, supplied in a continuous coil or as separate pre-
formed ring elements. The latter are preferred since density
can be more carefully controlled but coils can also be cut to
provide individual rings. Compression by the gland follower
urges the packing against the valve stem and stuffing box wall
to provide a seal. Such packings traditionally suffer from
relaxation of the load over time leading to leakage in service.
To combat this, and where sealing integrity is of prime
importance, techniques such as live (spring) loading and
specially shaped packing rings may be employed.
G14.2 Graphite packing containing even small amounts of impurities

can cause corrosion of martensitic stainless steel valve stems in
the presence of water (e.g., after hydrostatic testing). To avoid
this, such material should be supplied with a corrosion
inhibitor having a passivating or sacrificial action (the former
is preferred).
G14.3 A common cause of leakage is overlong stuffing boxes with too

many packings rings such that the load applied by the gland
follower never reaches the lower rings. Reducing the length of
such arrangements (e.g. by replacement of superfluous packing
by a rigid spacer) can often be beneficial.
G14.4 Chevron packings generally consist of ‘V’ shaped rings of

PTFE and reinforced polymers which are preloaded by the
gland and pressure energised by the process media. They are
most frequently used in applications where friction must be
minimised (e.g. control valves).
G14.5 ‘O’ ring seals consist of round section elastomer rings fully
retained in properly designed housings and sealed by pressure
energy from the process fluid. Materials must be carefully
selected to suit the fluid being handled. Diametric clearances
must be minimised if extrusion is to be avoided and, at higher
pressures, rigid plastic backing rings may be used. Specially
filled elastomers are available for use in gas service where
explosive decompression is a possibility.
RP 62-1 PAGE 105

G14.6 Reinforced lip seals consisting of an outer sheath of polymer
(e.g., PTFE) with internal nickel or stainless steel spring are
also pressure energised at higher pressures. When pressure is
low, the spring is intended to provide sufficient force to make a
seal between the polymer sheath and the wall of the housing or
stem. They can be very effective but will leak if scratched
across the sealing face. They may also leak during
temperature changes where these occur relatively quickly.
G14.7 Thrust packings are packing rings or washers of polymeric

reinforced materials mounted on shoulders in the bonnet and
on the salve stem; initial sealing may be required by a
compression packing. They are only used with quarter turn
valves.
G14.8 Diaphragm seals of diaphragm valves are used to isolate the

valve stem from the process medium. Various designs are
employed including bellows diaphragms of elastomeric or
polymeric materials. It is important to realise that, unless a
secondary seal (e.g., ‘O’ ring) is provided on the stem,
diaphragm rupture will result in leakage to atmosphere.
G14.9 BP Chemicals in it’s drive to reduce both existing and future

potential fugitive valve stem emissions from it’s plants has
implemented Environmental Management of it’s wedge gate,
globe and check valve population. Existing and new projects
should use the technology and current BP Chemical
agreements to achieve good long term environmental
performance. For further details of the technology and
agreements contact BP Chemicals Engineering Technology
Manager, Vessels and Piping.
Non-compliance with the technology and agreements could be

detrimental in terms of plant fugitive emission performance
and financial penalties to BP Chemicals.
In the case of ball valves BP Chemicals accepts the industry

standard to meet it’s fugitive emission objectives.
BP Chemicals has a preferred technology for parallel slide

valves. For further details of the technology and agreements
contact BP Chemicals Engineering Technology Manager,
Vessels and Piping.
RP 62-1 PAGE 106

G15. Bolts, Nuts and Screws
G15.1 Material for bolts, studs, screws, and nuts should be selected to
suit the flange materials and conditions of service and should
generally comply with BP GS 142-9.
G15.2 For sour service ‘M’ grade bolting will be required where
contact with the working fluid is expected (e.g. insulated joints
where leakage may occur).
G15.3 For low temperature applications, impact tested alloy steel

material (L grade) should be specified. For cryogenic service,
austenitic stainless steel is frequently used but it should be
remembered that this material is much weaker than alloy steel,
so bolt load may be restricted where a direct substitution is
made without redesign of the joint.
G15.2 Bolts for use on offshore applications should be zinc or

cadmium plated. PTFE coating has limited effectiveness
unless it is applied on top of plating since, if the coating is
ruptured, corrosion may be accelerated.
RP 62-1 PAGE 107

TABLE G1 - VALVE BODY AND BONNET/COVER MATERIALS (Part 1of 2)
Typical Specifications Typical

Material Forgings Castings Application
Carbon Steel BS 1503-221-490 BS 1504-161-480 Non corrosive process
ASTM A105 ASTM A216 hydrocarbons, produced
Gr. NCB water, slurries deaerated sea
water, water air, steam
Chromium-Moly BS 1503-621-960 BS 1504-621 H.P steam and process good
1 ¼ Cr. ASTM A182- Gr.F11 ASTM A 217 resistance to sulphur and
½ Mo. Gr. NC6 hydrogen, good mechanical
___________________ ____________________ properties at elevated
Chromium-Moly temperatures
5 Cr - ½ Mo BS 1503-625-590 BS 1504-625
ASTM A1820-Gr. F5 ASTM A217-Gr. C5
Stainless Steel BS 1503-304-S40 BS 1504-304-C15 Corrosive service, low temp.
Type 304 ASTM A182 ASTM A351 - service, services requiring
Gr. F304 Gr. CF8 cleanliness, unsuitable for
sea water service. Not to be
used where chlorides exceed
30 ppm
Stainless Steel BS 1503-316-S31/ BS 1504-316-C16 Highly corrosive service.
Type 316 S33 Not recommended for sea
ASTM A182 - ASTM A351 - water. Not to be used where
Gr. F316 Gr. CF8M chlorides exceed 30 ppm
Carbon Steel BS 1503-221-Gr. 490 BS 1504-161-Gr. 480 Low temperature service
(Impact Tested) LT 50 ASTM A350- LT 50 ASTM A352-Gr.
Gr. LF2 LCB
RP 62-1 PAGE 108

TABLE G1 - VALVE BODY AND BONNET/COVER MATERIALS (Part2 of 2)
Typical Specifications Typical

Material Forgings Castings Application
Bronze - BS 1400 Black sewage, brine, fire
Gr. LG2 water, air, steam, water
- ASTM B62 leaded bronze has poor
Alloy B36 resistance to sea water
Aluminium - BS 1400 Gr. AB2 Sea water, black sewage,
Bronze brine, fire water. Good for
high velocities. Unsuitable
for sulphide polluted water
Titanium ASTM B348 Gr. 2 Sodium hypochlorite and
ferritic chloride solutions
Grey Cast Iron BS 1452 Gr. 220 Land locations, water
ASTM A126 aqueous solutions, non-
Class B volatile chemicals. Do not
use for hydrocarbons or
hazardous service. Should
not be used where freezing
may occur. May be used for
underground water service
but otherwise should be
avoided
Spheroidal BS 2789 As grey cast iron but may be
Graphite Cast ASTM A395 used at higher pressures and
Iron temperatures
Monel 400 ASTM A494 or Sea water, brackish water,
A744-M-35-1 brine. Good resistance to all
acids except oxidising types
Hastelloy Alloy C ASTM A494 or Hypochlorites, acetic acid
A744-CW-12M chlorine, hydrogen
13% Chrome Steel; BS 1503-541- S21 ASTM BS 1504-420 C29 ASTM Natural gas + C02
A182-F60 A217-CA15 (Hardness limited to 22RC
max)
Super Duplex Sea water service Natural
Stainless Steel gas + extreme C02
Extreme sour service
UPBV Land locations or inside
PVDF modules only Non-fire
PP hazardous services water
ABS and process services
RP 62-1 PAGE 109

TABLE G2 - TYPICAL APPLICATION OF METALLIC TRIM MATERIALS
MATERIAL NOTES
13% Chrom. Steel General services, gases, oil, steam. Normally supplied with
body materials LBC, WCB, WC1, WC6, WC9, C5 and C12.
Note: Stems may be subject to graphitic attack
13% Chrom. with Nickel Alloy Facing General services, steam, water, air, gas, fuel oil non-
lubricating, non-corrosive low viscosity oils. Normally
supplied with WCB body material.
13% Chrom. Steel, Hard Faced General services, steam, gas, oil and oil vapour. Supplied
with body materials LCB, WCB, WC1, WC6, WC9 and C5.
Hard Faced Trim (e.g. Stellite, Tungsten Steam, wire drawing applications, dirty service etc. Normally
Carbide) supplied with body materials WCB, WC1, WC6, WC9 C5,
C12, CF8, CF8M and CF8C.
Stainless Steel 18-10-2 with or without Corrosive services. Normally supplied with body materials,
Hard Facing LC3, LC2, LC1, LCB, WCB, CF8, CF8M and CF8C.
Bronze Cold, hot water, marine applications and low temp. service.
Normally supplied with WCB body material
Aluminium bronze Sea water, brine, firewater unsuitable for sulphide polluted
water.
Super Duplex Stainless Steel Sea water, sour service.
Hastelloy Alloy C Hypochlorites, chlorine, hydrogen sulphide, sea water, brine
Monel and Inconel Corrosive Services
Electroless Nickel Plating Used for ball valves
Cast Iron Not used where freezing is likely to occur
Titanium Sodium Hypochlorite
RP 62-1 PAGE 110

TABLE G3 -TYPICAL APPLICATION OF NON-METALLIC MATERIALS
(FOR FURTHER INFORMATION SEE BP GROUP GS 142-7)
MATERIAL APPLICATION
Butyl Rubber Cold water and process service, good wear resistance
Chlorinated Polyether (Penton) Process service (good resistance to acids and solvents). If
softening can be tolerated can be used to 125°C.
Chlorosulphonated Polyethylene (Hypalon) Good resistance to chemical attack (e.g. acids, alkalis,
oxidizing agents, minerals and vegetable oils), poor
resistance to aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons
Ebonite Good chemical resistance, most grade soften above 70°C.
Becomes brittle at low temperatures
Ethylene Propylene (EP DM) Good mechanical properties, good resistance to phosphate
ester based hydraulic fluids and minerals. Some grades can
be considered for wellhead and hot water applications (See
BP Group GS 142-7)
Natural Rubber Suitable for cold water and some chemical and abrasive
service. Has low resistance to solvents, oils and sunlight
Neoprene Suitable for some process services, high oil resistance with
some grades. Good resistant to sunlight and weather suffers
from compression set when hot
Nitrile Good general service material, good resistant to oil, solvents
and chemicals, subject to swelling when used with de-ionised
water. Shall not be used for sour service. Poor resistance to
sunlight and weather
Nylon Insoluble in hydrocarbons, good resistance to alkalis, will
absorb water and swell, good frictional properties
Polypropylene Good resistant to chemical attack, similar to polythene. Not
so subject to stress cracking as polythene
Polyethylene Good resistance to mineral acids, alkalis and solvents. Suffers
embrittlement when subject to polar solvents, esters, alchols
and keytones
Polyurethane Excellent resistance to oils, solvents, fats, grease, petrol,
ozone sunlight and weather. Good properties at low
temperatures. Some reduction in properties at high
temperatures, susceptible to hydrolysis should not be used
with hot water or acid
PTFE (Virgin) Excellent for most process services. Some grades may be used
at -180°C. Max temp. limits (200°C) may be increased by
adding fillers. Max. allowable temperature depends on
seal/valve design. Low friction properties, subject to creep
and cold flow under moderate loads.
PVC Can be supplied plasticised or in rigid form. Good chemical
resistance. Can suffer from creep.
Silicone Rubber Poor physical properties, lack of resistance to chemical
attack. Not resistant to acids or alkalis. Aromatic and
chlorinated solvents and petrol cause swelling
Fluoroelastomer (Viton) Water and process service. Good resistance to some acids,
petrol and solvents. Should not be used with esters and
keytones. Poor flexibility at low temperatures. Viton A has
poor methanol resistance, Viton GF has better methanol
resistance but poor explosive decompression resistance
RP 62-1 PAGE 111

* Viton and EPDM elastomers (ethylene diene) may be used for wellhead seals.
The grade selected shall be suitable for the process conditions and resistant to
explosive decompression and subject to approval by BP.
Most elastomers are subject to swelling when used with de-ionised water,
particularly nitrile rubber. Viton and neoprene elastomers should not be
considered for hot water applications because they are susceptible to
blistering, but may be used for hot oil application. EPDM (peroxide cured)
may be considered for hot water applications up to 130°C. It is recommended
that the use of viton is limited to 180°C for pressurised systems and 200°C for
non-pressurised systems.
G16. Material Temperature Limitations
The maximum and minimum operating temperatures given below are a

general guide only for non-corrosive conditions. The corrosive nature or
condition of the fluid may restrict the allowable operating temperature range
and service life of the material. Where any doubt of the material suitability
exist, a materials specialist must be consulted.
RP 62-1 PAGE 112

TABLE G4 - BODY AND BONNET/COVER MATERIALS
Temperature C Notes
Materials Min Max
Carbon Steel - 29 425

Chromium Moly (1 ¼ Cr, ½ Mo) - 29 593 1, 2
Chromium Moly (5 Cr, ½ Mo) - 29 593 1
Stainless Steel Type 304 -196 538
Stainless Steel Type 316 -196 538
Carbon Steel (Impact Tested)< LT50/LF2 - 50 343
Bronze - 30 260
Aluminium Bronze - 30 260
Titanium - 30 315
Grey Cast Iron - 204
Spheridal Graphite Cast Iron - 343
Monel 400 -196 425
Hastelloy C -196 425
13 Chrome Steel - 50 600
Duplex Stainless Steel - 50 315
Notes:-
1. Class 150 flanges valves 540°C max.
2. Scaling may occur above 565°C.
All valve temperature limits may be reduced to suit trim and materials.
RP 62-1 PAGE 113

TABLE G5 - TRIM MATERIALS
Temperature °C
Materials - Metallic Min Notes
Max
13% Chromium Steel -50 600

13% Chromium with Nickel Alloy or other
Hard Facing -50 450 to 600
(depending on facing material)
Stellite or Tungsten Carbide Hard Facing -196 650
Stainless Steel 18-10-2 with or without
Hard Facing -196 450
Bronze -196 288
Aluminium Bronze -196 260
Monel -196 425
Inconel Dependent on Grade
Duplex Stainless Steel -50 315
Hastelloy Alloy C -196 425
Temperature°C*
Materials - Non-Metallic Min Max
Butyl Rubber -50 120

Chlorinated Polyether (Penton) 90
Chlorosuphonated Polyethylene (Hypalon) -15 200
Ebonite 0 57/149
(depends on grade)
Perfluoroelastomer (kalrez etc.) 0/35 230/260
(depends on grade)
PEEK -10 250
(depends on grade)
Ethylene Propylene (EPDM) -30 150
Natural Rubber -50 70
Polychloroprene (neoprene) -20 100
Nitrile rubber (NBR) -20 120
Polyproplene 0 100
Polyurethane -30 90
Polyethylene 0 60
PVC -40 60
Silicone Rubber -80 170
Virgin PTFE -190 260#
Fluoroelastomer (Viton) (-5 to - 35) 200
(depends on grade)
Hydrogenated nitrile (HNBR) -20 150
*For continuous exposure. Most materials will withstand brief excursions to 5° lower and 10/20° higher. For
marginal applications specialist advice should be sought.
#If fully contained. Note: this material tends to extrude
RP 62-1 PAGE 114

G17. Chemical Resistance Charts - Table G6 and 7
The following charts are a guide only for choosing valve materials. The
choice is influenced by a number of factors such as fluid concentration,
temperature, line velocity, presence of impurities, abrasion, possibility or
stress corrosion cracking etc. Where any doubt exists, a BP materials
specialist must be consulted.
TABLE G6 - CHARACTERISTICS OF COMMON ELASTOMERS
Elastomer
Property Natural Neoprene Nitrile Butyl Hypalon EPDM Viton
Rubber
Abrasion
Resistance A B B BC B AB B
Gaseous
Permeability C B B A B C B
Tear
Resistance AB B C B B AB B
Cold
Resistance B B B B BC AB BC
Resilience A A BC D C BC C
Flame
Resistance D B D D B D B
Ozone
Resistance C A C A A A A
Key: A = Excellent C = Fair

B = Good D = Poor
RP 62-1 PAGE 115

APPENDIX H
SIZING AND RESISTANCE TO FLOW
H1. General
Depending on the type involved, valves can be a major source of

pressure loss in a piping systems.
H2. Incompressible (liquid) Flow
H2.1 There are four commonly used methods of stating a valve’s resistance
to flow:-
(a) Loss coefficient, K
This is the most convenient form for use in piping system

design since it can be added to the loss coefficients of other
piping components and the pipe itself to produce an overall
loss coefficient for the system. Pressure or head loss can be
calculated as follows:-
K V2
Head loss dH =
2g
K pV2
Pressure loss dH =
2
Wher V = Velocity of flow in pipe

p = Density of fluid
g = acceleration due to gravity
(b) L/D Ratio
This is the equivalent length of pipe, L having internal

diameter D which has the same resistance as the valve.
fL
Loss coefficient, K =
D
Where f = Pipe friction coefficient

L = Pipe length
D = Pipe diameter
RP 62-1 PAGE 116

A valve resistance quoted in terms of L/D ratio implies that an
assumption has been made regarding pipe roughness and
Reynolds Number and hence the value or ‘f’
(c) Valve flow coefficient, Cv
This is the flow of water (at 60ºF), measured in U.S

gallon/min. Which can be passed by the valve when a pressure
drop of 1 psi acts across it. Pressure drop under flowing
conditions is then given by:-
Q2G
dp = 1bf per sq. in.
Cv2
Where Q = Flow rate (U.S gall/min.)

G = Specific gravity of liquid.
Note: If Cv is quoted in Imperial gallons the flow rate will need

to be adjusted accordingly and vice versa. If flow is not fully
turbulent (e.g. highly vicous liquid) a viscosity correction
factor must be applied to Cv.
(d) Metric valve flow coefficient, Kv.
This is the metric equivalent of Cv and represents the flow in

cubic metres/hr which can be passed by the valve when a
pressure drop of 1 bar (actually 0.981 bar) acts across it.
Pressure drop under flowing conditions is then given by:-
Q2G
dP =
Kv2
Where Q = Flow rate (cubic metres/hr)
G = Specific gravity of liquid
The relationship between Cv and Kv is:-
Kv = 0.87 Cv (for Cv in U.S. galls)

Kv = 1.05 Cv (for Cv in Imperial galls)
The relationship between Cv and K is:-
894 d4
K= (for Cv in US. galls)
Cv2
620 d4
K= (Cv in Imperial galls)
Cv2
RP 62-1 PAGE 117

H2.2 Table H1 provides guidance on the relative flow resistance of different
valve types assuming fully turbulent flow. In specific cases, accurate
information should always be obtained from the manufacturer.
H2.3 The increase in velocity through a valve may result in the vapour
pressure of the fluid being reached, causing cavitation when the
pressure rises again with resulting erosion damage. Such situations
should be avoided.
H3. Compressible (Gas or Vapour) Flow
The situation here is much more complex than in the case of

incompressible flow and there is less agreement on procedures. Valve
manufacturers use a variety of different formulae for sizing many of
which involve the use of empirically derived factors. The user is
primarily interested in the total pressure drop across the valve but the
condition within the valve itself (e.g. possible high pressure drop
followed by recovery, choked flow etc.) must be taken into account in
deriving this.
H3.2 In the case of full bore, low pressure drop valves (ball, gate) such
effects are unlikely to be significant, but in other cases it is
recommended that accurate information is obtained from the
manufacturer and that authoritative texts be consulted (e.g ‘ISA
Handbook of Control Valves’ - J.W. Hutchinson; ‘Compressible
Internal Flow’ - D.S. Miller (BHRA)).
The following formula is provided for guidance.
Loss Coefficient K (see H2)
(Aa)2
K=
(Av)2
where Av = 24 x 10-6 x Cv [(or 28 x 10-6 x Kv)]
Aa = 24 x 10-3 x Av x C (for inlet velocities of Mach 0.2 or less)
C = Gas flow factor from manufacturer (based on air tests with

critical flow). This is sometimes combined with Cv and quoted as a
gas sizing coefficient Cg.
RP 62-1 PAGE 118

H4. Surge
Valves can be a source of surge phenomena such as ‘water hammer’

in a piping system. The usual cause is fast closure (e.g. a swing check
valve slamming shut on flow reversal) but fast opening of a valve
isolating a high energy line from a depressurised part of the system
can also be problematic.
The effect is a rapid conversion of kinetic energy into strain energy

(pressure rise and deformation of the piping system) and specialist
assistance should be sought if such situations are likely to arise.
As an indication of where this might be necessary, valve closures

occuring within the time taken for a pressure wave to travel from the
valve to the other end of the pipeline and back (one wave cycle) must
be regarded as occuring instantaneously.
2L
Time for one wave cycle =
C
where L is the length of pipe and C is the wave velocity. As will be

seen from the following table, the latter quantity is a function of pipe
diameter and wall thickness as well as the fluid contained.
RP 62-1 PAGE 119

TABLE H1 - LOSS COEFFICIENT K
APPROX. K VALUE
VALVE TYPE
MIN. MAX.
Globe and Lift Check 2 in. and above, Full Bore 4 10

Globe and Lift Check 1 ½ in. and below, Full Bore 5 13
Globe 45 degrees Oblique Type Full Bore 1 3
Globe Angle Pattern 2 in. and above, Full Bore 2 5
Globe Angle Pattern 1 ½ in. and below, Full Bore 1.5 3
Gate Valve Full Bore 0.1 0.3
Ball Valve Full Bore 0.1 -
Plug Valve (Rectangular Port) Full Open 0.3 0.5
Plug Valve (Rectangular Port) 80% Open 0.7 1.2
Plug Valve (Rectangular Port) 60% Open 0.7 2.0
Plug Valve (Circular Port) Full Bore 0.2 0.3
Butterfly Valve 0.2 1.5
Diaphragm (Wier Type) 2.0 3.5
Diaphragm (Straight Through Type) 0.6 0.9
Swing and Tilting Disc Check 1.0 -
RP 62-1 PAGE 120

TABLE H2 - K FACTORS FOR AXIAL FLOW CHECK VALVES
The following approximate K Factors may be used for axial flow, spring operated, non-slam
check valves (See Figure F3).
Size NPS ‘K’ Factor
2 1.9
3 1.7
4 1.6
6 1.4
8 1.3
10 1.2
12 1.2
14 1.1
16 1.1
18 1.1
20 1.0
24 1.0
28 0.97
30 0.95
32 0.94
36 0.92
40 0.89
42 0.89
48 0.86
52 0.85
60 0.82
RP 62-1 PAGE 121

TABLE H3 - APPROXIMATE WALVE VELOCITIES FOR INSTANTANEOUS
CLOSURE
d C. WAVE VELOCITY
t
ft/s m/s
20 4,300 1,310
40 4,000 1,219
60 3,800 1,158
80 3,600 1,097
100 3,400 1,036
150 3,100 945
200 2,800 853
250 2,600 792
300 2,400 732
Where d = Pipe inside diameter (inches or mm)

t = Pipe wall thickness (inches or mm)
RP 62-1 PAGE 122

APPENDIX I
GLOSSARY OF VALVE TERMINOLOGY
This Section lists in alphabetical order many common terms used in vale specification and
description.
Angle Valve: A globe valve design with valve ends at right angles
to each other. Normally with the inlet in the vertical
plane and the outlet in the horizontal plane.
Abrasion: Damage to valve trim caused by hard particulate in

the process fluid.
Actuator: A powdered valve operator to open or close a valve,

energised by pneumatic, electric or hydraulic power
sources.
Air/Vacuum Relief Valve: See pressure/vacuum safety valve.
Anti-Blowout stem: A valve stem with a shoulder, positively retained by

the body or bonnet. Typically, a requirement for ball
valves.
Anti-Static Device: A device providing electrical continuity between the

valve body and internal components to prevent
ignition of flammable fluids.
Angle Valve: A globe valve design having valve ends at right

angles to each other. Normally the inlet in the
vertical plane and outlet in the horizontal plane.
Automatic Control valve: A valve automatically regulating the flow, pressure

or temperature of a fluid in response to a process
signal from a sending element.
Axial Piston Valve: An uncommon but effective valve of the globe type
having a piston shaped closure with its polar axis in
the line of flow. Generally used as a check valve,
but with modification also used for control and
block valve functions, (also known as a nozzle
valve, inline globe or piston valve).
Back Seat: A face on the valve stem, seating on the underside of

the gland stuffing box, providing a metal to metal
seat on a full open valve reducing gland leakage
should this occur. Gland packings shall not be
replaced with the back seat closed and under line
RP 62-1 PAGE 123

pressure. Generally provided on gate and globe
valves.
Back Pressure: The pressure at the outlet, downstream of the valve.

For safety valves back pressure is expressed as a
percentage of the set pressure.
Balanced Safety Valve: A safety valve in which the spring and closing forces
due to back pressure are balanced (generally by
means of a bellows).
Ball: See Closure.
Ball Check Valve: A lift check valve having a free or spring loaded ball
closing on a spherical seat (see also check valve).
Ball Valve: A quarter turn, rotary action valve with spherical

closure and seats. Also called a ball plug valve for
some design features (see Appendix D Section D1).
Bellows: A convoluted, cylindrical component, usually metal,

providing axial flexibility and pressure containment.
used as a gland seal (in bellows sealed valves) or
equalising back pressure in balanced safety valves.
Specifically strong designs may be used for
mechanical loading seats in some designs of ball and
gate valves for high temperature or dirty services.
Bellows Sealed Valve: A valve having a bellows sealed gland (see 3.4.2).
Bi-Directional Valve: A valve designed to seal against flow or pressure

from either direction.
Block Valve: A general term for valves used to shut-off flow and
pressure. Other terms used are isolation valve, shut-
off valve and stop valve.
Blow Down: A term which when applied to safety valves means

the pressure difference between set pressure and
reseating pressure, usually expressed as a percentage
of set pressure. Blow down is also a term used in
steam plant and process plant.
Blow Down Valve: A valve, often specially designed for rapid

depressurising of a high pressure system. Also
called a blow-off valve.
RP 62-1 PAGE 124

Body (Valve): The main pressure containing component of a valve
housing the working components. The body may be
of a single piece construction or comprise of several
segments.
Bolted Bonnet: A term specifying that the bonnet is bolted to the

body (not screwed or welded).
Bolted Gland; A term specifying that the gland is bolted to the

bonnet (not screwed or a union type).
Bonnet: The pressure containing top cover containing the

gland, applies to block, diverter and control valves.
The term cover is used for check valve.
Bonnet Assembly: The bonnet and valve operator.
Bonnetless Valve: A term for a valves having all internal parts inserted
into s one piece body (could be used for some
bellows sealed valves).
Bonnet Packing: See gland packing.
Bottom Flange: A term used when a pressure containing plate covers

an opening on the bottom of a valve.
Brass to Iron: Specifies a valve with a brass closure and iron seat
or vice versa.
Breakout Torque of Force: The torque of force required at the valve stem to
initially move the closure from the fully closed
position.
Bronze Trim or Bronze Mounted: Specifies that trim (internal components), e.g.
closure, stem, seat ring are of brass or bronze.
Bubble Tight: A typical requirement for manufacturers production

test meaning no visible seat leakage (bubbles of air).
Built-Up Back Pressure: A safety valve outlet pressure due to flow into a
discharge line, normally expressed as a percentage of
the set pressure.
Butterfly Valve: A valve having a circular disk closure normally

mounted on a shaft, rotation gives a wing like
movement to close at right angles to the flow (see
Appendix D section D2).
RP 62-1 PAGE 125

By-Pass Valve: A valve to divert flow around or past part of a
system through which it normally passes.
Cage Trim: A trim diverting fluid from components using the
fluid internal energy to improve regulation of flow
and minimise wear in control and choke valves.
Cavitation: A phenomena which can occur in partially closed

valves due to a reduction in static pressure in the
downstream region of an increasing velocity. If the
liquid vapour pressure is reached, vapour filled
cavities form and grow around gas bubbles and
impurities, increases in static pressure cause vapour
bubbles to suddenly collapse or implode and can
damage the valve trim.
Cavity Relief: Relief to prevent pressure build up in valve body

cavities due to temperature changes of trapped fluids
internal relief may be provided by the seat design,
external relief may be necessary in some designs
requiring a body mounted relief valve with inlet to
the cavity.
Chatter: A safety valve term for rapid reciprocating motion

of the closure (disk) contacting the seat.
Check Valve: A self acting valve type allowing forward flow,

preventing reverse flow (see Appendix E3). Other
terms used include back pressure valve, non-return
valve, reflux and retention valve.
Chlorine Service: Valves designed for this service.
Choke Valve: A control valve for flow and pressure, often in the
choked mode. The design is similar to a globe
valve, the closure being conical or plug shape
seating in a circular orifice. Is generally used for
drilling and production of oil and gas; also for water
injection.
Clamp Gate Valve: A gate valve having body and bonnet held together
by a ‘U’ bolt clamp which facilitates stripdown for
overhaul.
Class Rating: See rating.
RP 62-1 PAGE 126

Clean Service: A classification used to denote that the process fluid
and piping system are essentially clean.
Closing Torque or Force: Torque or force required at the valve stem to

closure on to the final seat position.
Closure: A term for the operating components regulating the

flow or pressure e.g. ball, disk, gate piston or plug.
Other terms used include closure member and
obturator.
Cock: A small quarter turn, rotary action valve with a taper

plug closure, generally used for low pressure
instrumentation, drains and vents.
Combined Stop Check Valve: See globe stop and check valve.
Compact Gate Valve: A gate valve having compact dimensions, normally

complying with API 602 may be supplied with one
extended end for threaded or welded attachment
(API 606).
Conduit Gate Valve: A parallel gate valve having a continuous

uninterrupted port through the valve when fully
open. Also known as a through conduit gate valve.
See also slab gate and split gate valves (see
Appendix D para D3.9).
Control Valve: A term for a valve that regulates flow, pressure or

temperature. See also automatic control valve and
manual control valve. Other terms include
regulating valve and throttling valve.
Conventional: A term used to describe the basic generic valve type,

distinguishing it from specific variations e.g.
butterfly valves are conventional or high
performance, parallel gate valves are conventional or
conduit, safety valves are conventional or balanced.
Conventional Butterfly Valve: See rubber lined butterfly valve.
RP 62-1 PAGE 127

Conventional Parallel Gate A parallel gate valve with a gate or disk
Valve: closure that does not seal the bottom of the body
cavity when open. Also called the regular parallel
gate valve.
Conventional Safety Valve: A safety having a bonnet vented to discharge

(outlet) from the valve.
Corrosion allowance: An allowance on the practical thickness of pressure

containing components subject to corrosive fluids.
Crawl: A safety valve term for graduated adjustment of set

pressure of spring loaded safety valve from below
normal to normal after the spring temperature has
been raised by discharged fluid.
Cryogenic Valve: A valve designed to operate within the temperature

range -50ºC to 196ºC. Typical valve types used
include ball, butterfly glove, wedge gate and check
valves (see para. 3.4.3).
Dashpot: A device for dampening the movement of the

closure member. Dashpots are used for swing check
valves to reduce or eliminate surge in piping
systems.
Diaphragm: A flexible disk of metal (convoluted) or a membrane

of resilient material (elastomers, polymers - often
fabric reinforced) that provides limited movement
for valve operation and seating/separation of fluids.
Applications include diaphragm check valves,
diaphragm control valves and diaphragm valves.
Diaphragm Check Valve: A valve in which the closure is a specially shaped

diaphragm allowing forward flow (see Appendix E
Section E4).
Diaphragm Control Valve: A control valve having actuation provided by a

diaphragm or the actuation operated by a spring
diaphragm arrangement,
Diaphragm Valve: A block/control valve utilizing a resilient diaphragm

as the closure, two types available, weir and straight
through type (see Appendix para. D6 ). The valve is
also known as a glandless valve (gland can be
provided). Use for low pressure applications,
limited temperature operating range.
RP 62-1 PAGE 128

Differential Pressure: The difference in pressure between any two points in
a piping system. For valves usually the difference in
pressure between the upstream (inlet) and
downstream (outlet) of a fully closed valve. Also
known as pressure differential.
Double Acting Safety Valve: A safety valve having a directly loaded closure disk
directly mechanically loaded (normally a spring)
against its seat and actuated by the process fluid, see
also safety valve.
Discharge Coefficient: A safety valve term for the ratio of the measured
releasing capacity to the theoretical releasing
capacity related to the nominal flow area.
Dirty Service: A classification used to denote that the process fluid
and piping system contain particulate which may
damage valves unless specially selected for the
condition (e.g. conduit gate and metal seated ball
valves for oil and gas production).
Diverter Service: A process requirement to direct flow from one

stream to one or more streams. Several block valves
on one diverter valve may be employed. Where
several valves are used, to avoid confusion they
should be called block valves for diverter services
(See also diverter valves).
Diverter Valve: A valve with multiple ports to divert flow to one or

more streams and preventing intermixing (see
Appendix D para. D9). Also called multi-port
valves, switching valves and change over valves.
The term may also be used to describe several valves
used in combination for directing flow streams.
Dual Plate Check Valve: See split disk check valve.
Double Block: The provision of double isolation either by means of

two separate valves installed in series or by means of
a single valve having two seats, each of which
provides a seal.
Double Block and Bleed: The provision of double isolation with the additional
capability of being able to vent the space between
the two isolation points.
RP 62-1 PAGE 129

Double Block Valve: A single valve having two seats, each of which
provides a seal. The seats may isolate with the
pressure differential acting in the same or in opposite
directions, depending on the design.
Double Block and Bleed Valve: A single valve incorporating two seats, each which
provides a seal, and a means of venting the space
between the seats. The seats may isolate with the
pressure differential acting in the same or in opposite
directions, depending on the design.
Double Disk Butterfly Valve: An uncommon design having two disks to isolate
flow and pressure usually provided with cavity bleed
for double block and bleed.
Double Piston Effect: A term used for trunnion mounted ball valves in
which the line pressure energised seats are designed
to seal with cavity pressure. The floating seat
effectively a piston seating by pressure from each
side.
Downstream Seated Valve: A valve where the upstream line pressure loads the
closure against the downstream seat with differential
pressure across the valve. Typical valves include
gate valves (wedge gate, parallel gate), floating ball
valves, globe valves and high performance butterfly
valves.
Drag Valve: A control valve with a perforated cage trim for high
pressure drop, low noise application.
Drop Tight: A term specifying that droplets shall not be passed

when a valve is closed.
Eccentric Ball Valve: A quarter turn, rotary action valve. Closure is by a

ball or spherical seating component pivoted off
centre to provide cam action motion locking closure
against seat.
End Entry Ball Valve: A ball valve with a single piece body in which the
ball is assembled from one end of the bore and held
in position by a seat/retainer ring fastened to the
body.
Erosion: Damage to the valve/trim caused by high velocity

flow of fluids.
RP 62-1 PAGE 130

Excess Flow Valve: A valve designed to close automatically when flow
exceeds a specified rate.
Expanding Wedge: A gate valve with split gates separated by an

expanding wedge loading each gate against its fixed
seat. This feature is used in certain types in
conventional and conduit parallel gate valves and
wedge gate valves.
Face to Face Dimensions: The dimension from the end face of the inlet port to
the end face of the outlet port of a valve or pipe
fitting.
Facing: The finish of the gasket contact surface of flanged

end piping materials and valves.
Fire Fighting Valve: Generally a globe valve specifically for fire hydrants
having an outlet for a hose coupling.
Fire Safe: A misleading and incorrect term used to describe a

valve suitable for fire hazardous areas - see fire
tested valve.
Fire Tested Valve: A valve fire tested and certified in accordance with
accepted national fire test standards. Fire test
certification used for acceptance of valve for use in
fire hazardous areas.
Fixed Seats: Seats fixed to valve body, a term differentiating from

valves with floating seat as supplied with floating
ball valves and split gate valves. Parallel gate valves
generally have fixed seats.
Flap Valve: A low pressure swing check valve having hinged

disk or flap, sometimes leather or rubber faced.
Flash Point: The temperature at which a fluid first releases

sufficient flammable vapour to ignite in the presence
of a small flame or spark.
Flat Faced bonnet Joint: The jointing surface between a valve body and
bonnet when the bonnet is not recessed into the
body but seated on a flat surface.
Flat Full Face Gasket: A flat gasket covering the entire surface of parts to
be joined.
RP 62-1 PAGE 131

Flexible Wedge Gate Valve: A valve having a slotted gate permitting flexing,
improving seat alignment, reducing break out and
closing force (torque) with high pressures and
temperatures - see gate valve.
Floating Ball Valve: A ball valve having a ball in supported by seat rings,
without a bottom trunnion. Also called a seat
supported ball valve. (See Appendix D para. D1.3
and also ball valve).
Floating Seats: Valve seats having limited axial movement,

energised by line pressure to seal against the closure.
A term used to differentiate from fixed seats of ball
and gate valves, e.g. trunnion mounted ball valves
and slab parallel gate valves have floating seats.
Float Valve: An automatic flow control valve of globe or piston

type, usually operated by a float mechanism for
regulating or maintaining liquid level in a tank.
Flow Coefficient Cv: The flow capacity of a valve in US gallons per

minute of water at a temperature of 60ºF that will
flow through the valve with a pressure loss of one
pound per square inch at a specific opening position.
Typically used in sizing control valves.
Flutter: Rapid reciprocating or oscillating motion of a disk

during which the disk does not contact seat
(applicable to safety and check valves.
Foot Valve: A lift or swing check valve with an open inlet for
total immersion on a pump suction line, always fitted
with a filter or strainer.
Full Bore/Port: A valve bore approximately equivalent to pipe bore -

minimising pressure drop and facilitating pigging.
Full Bore Diaphragm Valve: Diaphragm valve with straight through full bore.
See diaphragm valve and weir diaphragm valve.
Full Bore Plug Valve: Plug valve with full bore through valve as opposed
to standard patterns having trapezoidal ports.
Full Lift Safety Valve: A valve modulating open over a small portion of the
lift and then opens rapidly to the fully open position.
RP 62-1 PAGE 132

Galling: The tendency to seizure of two metallic components
in sliding contact, usually where there is insufficient
difference in relative hardness.
Gate: See closure and gate valve.
Gate Valve: A linear action, multi-turn (when hand operated)

valve, the closure is a gate or disk closing against
flat seats (see Appendix D Section D3).
Geared Operation: A gearbox fitted to a valve for manual or actuated

operation to reduce operating effort and time.
Gland: A flanged or screwed component fastened to the

bonnet to compress and retain the gland packing.
Gland Follower: An integral or separate gland component in direct

contact with the packing.
Glandless Valve: A valve not requiring a gland, e.g. a diaphragm

valve or pinch valve.
Gland Packing: See packing.
Globe Valve: A linear action, multi-turn (when hand operated)

valve with a disc on piston closure seating on a flat
or shaped seat (see Appendix D Section D4.).
Globe Stop and Check Valve: A valve combining the self acting operation of a
check valve with the manual action of a globe valve
also called a combination stop check valve. (See
Appendix E Section E6.).
Hammer Blow Handwheel: A handwheel designed to provide a sudden load to

start opening of a valve where a plain handwheel is
inadequate but a geared operator is not justified.
Handwheel: The manually operated component used to open and

close a valve.
Hard Faced Seats: Seats or seating having a hard facing or coating to

provide good sealing surfaces resistant to wear, wire
drawing, galling and abrasion. Materials generally
used - plating (electroless nickel, chromium) cobalt
bearing alloys (stellite, colmonoy), carbides
(tungsten, chromium).
RP 62-1 PAGE 133

Hard Seated Valve: A valve with primary seating of metallic, ceramic,
composition (carbon/metal) or other non-resilient
materials to provide hard wearing faces.
Hand Valve: A term sometimes used to describe small bore valves

of the instrument type.
(Valve) Height: Usually the distance from bore centre line to top of
valve handwheel or the top of a geared operation or
powered actuator. nb: The overall height includes
the distance below the valve bore centreline to the
base of the valve.
High Performance Butterfly A butterfly valve with the closure disk offset or
Valve: double offset from the stem polar axis, permitting
their use at higher pressure than conventional
butterfly valves also called eccentric butterfly valves.
Hose End Valve: A valve for utility services on which have fittings for
connection to a hose.
Inlay: A corrosion resistant coating of body internal

wearing surfaces.
Inlet Port: The port connected directly to the upstream

pressure of a fluid system.
Inner Valve Seat: See seat ring.
Inside Screen Non-Rising Stem: A stem design in which the gate rises on a threaded
portion of the stem within the valve body and below
the gland packing.
Iris Valve: A valve design in which the closure moves towards

the centre of the valve bore to seat.
Isolation Valve: See block valve.
Kicker Valve: A specific term for the valve used on pig traps to
start flow to initiate pig launching and to stop flow
on pig reception. The valve is in effect a bypass
valve.
Knife Gate Valve: A valve having a narrow parallel gate with a shaped
edge for cutting through glutenous media or
slurries. Normally limited for low pressure, the
gland normally seals directly onto the gate.
RP 62-1 PAGE 134

Lantern Ring: A metallic ring forming a chamber between upper
and lower sets of compression packings in a stuffing
box. A part from the bonnet connects with the
lantern ring which may have several functions:-
(i) An injection chamber for gland sealant.

(ii) A pressure chamber for preventing external
loss of process media.
(iii) A leakage collection chamber.
Lapping: The process of rubbing and polishing surfaces (e.g.

closure and seats) to obtain a smooth seating surface
to minimise leakage.
Leak Tight: A term confirming there is no leakage through to

form a valve.
Lever Operated Valve: A term for a lever operated, quarter turn, rotary
action valve, e.g. ball, butterfly and plug types,
usually small, low rated valves.
Lift Check Valve: A check valve in which the closure is lifted from the
seat during forward flow, e.g. ball, piston, nozzle
check and foot valves.
Lifting Plug Valve: A valve in which the plug is lifted clear of the seat
during rotation from open to close to reduce
operating torque. Purging of the exposed cavity by
steam or other fluid may be used for some severe
service.
Line Blind Valve: A block using a plate arranged to rotate between

flanges that are clamped against the plate to seat.
Also called a goggle and spectacle valve.
Lined Ball Valve: A ball valve with the body internally lined, typically
PTFE that is used to seal valve, use for chemical
applications.
Line Pressure: The pressure in the piping system.
Lubricated Plug Valve: A plug valve having grooved seating areas and
passage ways for lubricant and sealant injection for
lubrication and sealing. See pressure balanced plug
valve.
RP 62-1 PAGE 135

Lugged Pattern: Term for butterfly valve of wafer pattern provided
with lugs drilled for bolting to pipe flanges. Other
terms - lugged wafer pattern and single flanged
valve.
Manual Control Valve: A valve for manually regulating flow or pressure

either directly or indirectly e.g. powered actuator.
Globe, needle, ball, butterfly and diaphragm valves
are extensively used.
Manual Operation: A valve supplied for manual operation by lever,

handwheel or endless chain.
Manual Override: Manual override is means of operation by handwheel

of a powered actuator in the event of power failure
and for setting of the actuator travel in relation to
the valve.
Mechanically Seated Valve: A valve designed to achieve primary seating by

mechanical means e.g. split (parallel) gate valve with
a mechanically expanding wedge between the gate,
wedge gate valves and the expanding plug valve.
Mixing Valve: A control valve, usually self operating using a

control element to regulate flow input(s), multi-port
designs e.g., globe type may be used to mix different
fluids and sometimes called blending valves. Mixing
valves are also used for temperature control in
conjunction with a thermostat.
Modulating Safety Valve: A valve designed to modulate between open and

closed over the entire or a substantial portion of the
valve lift.
Needle Valve: A globe valve with a conical plug (needle) closing

into a small seat. Used for flow metering and
damping pressure fluctuations on instruments e.g.
pressure gauges. Also called an instrument valve.
Nominal Bore: The nominal or reference diameter of the bore of a

pipe, fitting or valve. The actual bore may vary
considerably from the nominal size.
Non-Lubricated Plug Valve: A plug valve not depending on the injection of

lubricant or sealant for operation and seating e.g.,
lined and sleeved plug valves and lifting plug valves.
RP 62-1 PAGE 136

Non-Rising Stem: See inside screw, non-rising stem.
Nozzle Check Valve; See axial piston valve.
Oblique Pattern: A valve body with the closure at an angle to the port
reducing pressure drop. Used for linear action globe
and lift check valves, also called a ‘Y’ pattern valve.
Outside Screw and Yoke (OS&Y): A rising stem design for linear action valves (gate
and globe). The threaded portion of the stem is
isolated from the process media by the gland
packing and the stem rises via a threaded nut in the
yoke.
Outside Screw, Rising Stem: See outside screw and yoke.
Overlay: A hard facing of trim components (welded overlays

as opposed to coatings and plating).
Overpressure: A safety valve term for pressure increase above the

set pressure (expressed as percentage of set
pressure).
Packing: The material used to seal the valve stem within the
valve body (see Appendix G).
Packing Assembly: The gland, gland follower, packing nut and packing
components of a valve.
Packing Box Assembly: The bonnet gland stuffing box and packing assembly
used to seal against leakage from the valve body
stem area.
Packing Nut without Gland: A packing nut that is used to directly compress the
packing in the valve stuffing box.
Parallel Gate Valve: A gate valve with a parallel slide gate or disk
closure. See conventional parallel gate, conduit
parallel gate, slab gate and split gate valves.
Parallel Slide Valve: A conventional parallel gate valve with a split spring
loaded disk closure (see BS 5157) generally used for
power generation and stem service applications.
(See Appendix D Section D3.10).
Parallel Plug Valve: A valve with a cylindrical plug closure, various

methods of sealing are used i.e., lubricated,
RP 62-1 PAGE 137

expanding plug, eccentric and ‘O’ ring sealed
designs. (See plug valves).
Particulate: Small solid containments in the process media which

may be abrasive and damaging to the valve
performance.
Penstock Valve: A gate valve with the gate mounted in a frame fixed
to a wall or bulkhead. Used for handling large
volumes of water. Also called a sluice valve.
Pig-Ball Valve: A ball valve designed to hold and launch or receive

pigs or spheres.
Pigging Valve: A full bore block valve suitable for the passage of
pigs and spheres. Valves used are trunnion mounted
ball valves, conduit gate valves of slab and split
wedge design. Double block and bleed designs are
normally required.
Pilot Operated Safety Valve: A valve comprising of a main valve and a pilot valve.
The pilot valve senses the pressure of the system.
Pilot Operated Safety Valve A pilot operated safety valve in which the closure
with Restricted Loading: seat loading is restricted to permit the valve to fully
open within the permissible overpressure should the
pilot fail to remove the seat loading.
Pinch Valve: A design of diaphragm valve in which the closure is

a flexible tube, either exposed or enclosed in a body.
The tube is pinched to close mechanically or by
application of fluid pressure in the body.
Piston Check Valve: A check valve with a free or spring loaded piston
closure (see Appendix E Section E5.).
Piston Valve: A globe valve in which a piston closure enters or

withdraws from a seat bore to start, stop or regulate
flow. The seat bore contains packing to effect a
seal. In addition to the standard straight pattern
design other variants are available, e.g., tank bottom
outlet valves and sampling valves.
Plate Check Valve: A valve having several metallic membranes allowing

forward flow, but close to prevent reverse flow,
used for air and gas compressors.
RP 62-1 PAGE 138

Plug: A valve closure which may be tapered or cylindrical
in shape.
Plug Valve: A quarter turn, rotating action valve the closure is a

plug closing against a downstream seat (see
Appendix D section D5.).
Poppet Valve: A linear action valve in which the closure is a stem

mounted disk often with an angled edge closing on
an angled seat.
Port: A passage through a component, e.g. the inlet and

outlet through an open valve. Also called a valve
seat opening.
Preferred Flow Direction: A term for a design of valve where line pressure aids
closure in one direction and tends to unseat from the
other direction. Valves with preferred flow
directions include high performance butterfly,
eccentric ball, plug and split (parallel) gate valves.
Pressure Balanced Plug Valves: A lubricated valve with internal passageways

pressurised by the process fluid to lift a tapered
plug.
Pressure Control Valve: An automatic valve with a pressure sensing element

to control pressure with inset limits (see pressure
maintaining valve).
Pressure Differential: See differential pressure.
Pressure Energised Seat: A floating seat with limited movement that is

energised by line pressure which provides the seating
load against the closure. used for trunnion mounted
ball valves and slab (parallel) gate valves.
Pressure Maintaining Valve: A control valve that maintains the level of upstream
line pressure. Also called a surplug valve, pressure
retaining, pressure sustaining or pressure control
valve.
Pressure Reducing Valve: An automatic control valve that reduces the

upstream line pressure to a set level downstream and
maintains the reduced pressure irrespective of
changes in upstream pressure.
Pressure Relief Valve: See safety valve.
RP 62-1 PAGE 139

Pressure Sealed Valve: A valve in which the bonnet is in the form of a cover
plate held in place by removable ring sections and
sealed by a special taper ring that increases the
sealing effect as internal pressure is increased. This
design replaces the bonnet and body flanges with the
benefit of saving weight and cost.
Pressure/Vacuum Safety Valve: A valve that automatically releases excess pressure

or admits pressure to prevent a vacuum forming
when filling or emptying a pipeline or tank.
Quick Operation Gate Valve: See lever gate valve.
Quick Operation Gate Valve: See lever gate valve.
Raised Face Flange (RF Flange): A pipe flange or valve body flange where the gasket
contact face is raised proud of the flange face.
Raised Face Gasket (RF Gasket): A gasket with dimensions matching a RF flange
gasket face.
Reduced Bore: A valve in which the nominal diameter of the valve

bore is reduced in the central portion of the bore.
Generally the reduction is to the next pipe size down
by may be less if required. Reduced bore valves are
used to save weight where the additional pressure
drop across is acceptable. (See venturi valve).
Regular Pattern: A term used for a valve design in common usage as

opposed to less common designs. Also specifically
used for plug valves in which the port commonly
used is trapezodial and equivalent in area to a
circular bore. Also known as a standard pattern (see
conventional design).
Relief Valve: In the UK, known as a safety valve. In the USA a

design of safety valve that is direct acting and
intended for liquid service only. Designs include a
full lift relief valve and a modulating relief valve.
Reseating Pressure: A safety valve term for the pressure at which the
valve reseats after discharge.
Resistance Coefficient: A coefficient defining the friction loss through a

valve in terms of velocity head or velocity pressure.
RP 62-1 PAGE 140

Reverse Acting Gate: A term used for conduit gate valves in which the
gate(s) is ported through the upper half so that the
gate is raised to close. This design is used to
minimum ingress of particulate into the body cavity
where the process fluid cavity is dirty. It is also
used to facilitate spring return to ease actuation.
Ring Type Joint Flange (RTJ Flange): A pipe or valve body flange having a machined
groove into which a ring type joint is fitted.
Ring Type Joint: A metal ring joint of oval or octagonal section.
Rising Stem: See outside screw, rising stem, outside screw and
yoke and inside screw, rising stem.
Rotary Disk Valve: A form of gate valve design in which an offset shaft
rotates the closure across the valve seat to open or
close. Designs include a single disk closure and a
double disk closure in which the disks are separated
by a spring to load the upstream disk against its seat.
Upstream pressure loads the downstream disk
against its seat via the desk assembly. Also called a
rotary gate valve and a lever gate valve when
manually operated by a lever.
Rotary Valve: A general term sometimes used to describe valves

with a rotary action, e.g., ball, butterfly, plug valves.
The term is also used specifically for a design of

valve used to dose precise quantities of powders on
liquids into a process stream. The closure is
machined with a series of cups to hold the dose and
may be continuously rotated through 360 degrees or
partially rotated to provide dosing. A particular
design is the cup ball valve typically used in chemical
plants.
Rubber Lined Butterfly Valve: A quarter turn rotary action valve of conventional
design in which the rotational axis of the disk is
concentric with the shaft axis. The rubber lining of
the body forms the valve seat. The lining may be
vulcanised to the body or be replaceable in the form
of a lining or insert. Valve of this type are limited by
pressure and temperature.
Rubber Seated Wedge Gate Valve: A valve with a rubber coated wedge closure that
seals against the valve port. This design eliminates
RP 62-1 PAGE 141

the cavity in the bottom of the valve but is limited by
pressure and temperature.
Running Torque or Force: The torque or force required to stroke a valve over
the majority of its travel. The torque on force is
always less than the breakout and closing
torque/force.
Safety Valve: In the UK a term for any automatic valve that

relieves a pressure system when abnormal operating
conditions cause the pressure to exceed a set limit
and closes when pressure falls below the set limit.
In the USA it is specifically a full lift pressure-relief

valve intended for gas service only.
Safety Relief Valve: A term now obsolescent in the UK. See safety
valve. In the USA it is specifically a direct acting
pressure-relief valve intended for gas, vapour and
liquid service.
Sampling Valve: A globe valve for taking samples from a vessel or
piping system. Usually mounted on the bottom of a
vessel or pipe (see piston valve).
Screwed Bonnet: A bonnet screwed into the valve body rather than
flanged or bolted. Generally used on small bore low
pressure valves for non-hazardous industrial
applications. The bonnet is sometimes seal welded
to prevent external leakage from the threaded
portion.
Screwed End: A valve (and pipe) with ends threaded, suitable for a
screwed connection.
Screwed Gland: A gland usually threaded internally and screwed into

the bonnet stuffing box, rather than flanged and
bolted. Generally used on small bore valve, e.g.
instrument valves. A locking device is sometimes
fitted to prevent rotation in service due to vibration
or other cause.
Sealant Injection: The injection through a non-return valve of a sealing

component to seal the gland and/or seats of a valve
either by design (lubricated by valve) or for use in an
emergency (leaking valve).
Seat: The part of a valve against which the closure is

loaded to provide shut-off or through which process
RP 62-1 PAGE 142

fluid flows and may be regulated by adjustment of
the closure in relation to the seat. The seat may
comprise one or more components of metallic and
for non-metallic materials.
Seat Bush: See seat ring.
Seat Holder: A metallic component, usually corrosion resistant,

with a seat insert of another material, e.g. a soft seat
of elastomer or polymer. Specifically the term is
used for valves with floating seat designs. The seat
holder is tubular in shape permitting axial movement
in a seat housing and free to move slightly by line
pressure to load the seat and seal against the closure.
The seat may then be a soft seat insert or an integral
overlay of hard metal facing material. Seat holders
are typically used in trunnion mounted ball valves
and slab (parallel) gate valves.
Seat Housing: The counter bone in the body of floating seat valve
in which the seat holder is located.
Seat Insert: A ring shaped seat element generally of soft material

such as an elastomer or polymer that is fitted in a
seat holder, seat ring or closure. The insert may be
moulded in position. It may be a push fit such as an
‘O’ ring, a press fit and may be partially
encapsulated. Also called an insert seat and soft seat
insert.
RP 62-1 PAGE 143

Seat Pocket: A general term for the counterbore(s) within a valve
body that house or located a seat holder or seat ring.
Seat pockets may be left plain or overlaid in
corrosion resistant materials when required.
Seat Ring: A ring shaped metallic component usually corrosion

resistant. One face forms the valve seat which may
contain a seat insert. The reverse end is fastened to
the body of the valve by a threaded portion or by
swaging in small bore valves. Seat rings are
typically used in valves of fixed seat design where
seat replacement is required.
Seat Seating Pressure: The pressure (per unit area) required to prevent
leakage across the seating contact surface of a valve
seat and closure. Sealing pressure is due to the
loadings imposed by line pressure and/or mechanical
force and is dependent on the seat material, surface
finish and geometry of the valve trim. Also called
seat contact pressure.
Seat Supported Ball Valve: See floating ball valve.
Seat to Body Seal: The seal preventing leakage from a valve body
cavity to the line via the seat to body connecting
interface. In fixed seat valves the seal usually
depends on a screwed or swaged joint. In floating
seat valves a dynamic seal is required to allow float
of the seat assembly. This seal may be in the form of
an ‘O’ ring(s) or a metal to metal facing employing a
spring or bellows for preloading at low pressure.
Set Pressure: A safety valve for full lift safety valves as the
pressure at which the valve suddenly opens.
Short Pattern Valve: Valve designed in which the face to face dimension
is less than the standard dimensions specified in BSI
and API national standards. Several BSI and API
standards include short pattern dimensions for
different types of valves. Generally, valves are of
reduced bore.
Shut-Off Valves: See block valves.
Single Entry Ball Valve: A two or three piece body ball valve in which the
ball is assembled via the bore of one of the body
pieces.
RP 62-1 PAGE 144

Single Flanged Valve: Normally a wafer pattern valve provided with a
single flange or lugs for bolting to pipe flanges.
Single Piece Ball Valve: A ball valve with the body in one piece, the ball
being assembled from one end and held by a retainer
ring which may also include a valve seat. Generally
used for small bore valves.
Size: The size of a valve normally references the nominal

internal diameter of connecting piping and a full bore
valve e.g. 6” n.b. sometimes the actual internal
diameter is given, typically for wellhead gate valves.
Reduced bore/venturi valves normally reference the
size of the reduced nominal internal diameter or its
equivalent in terms of flow area, e.g. 6 in. x 4 in. NB
(See also full bore/part and reduced bore).
Slab Gate Valve: A conduit gate valve with a single parallel sided gate
normally sealed by floating seats, line pressure
energised with supplementary mechanical loading
(springs) or low pressure. Fixed seats are
sometimes used, generally for small bore valves, but
for all sizes by certain manufacturers.
Slide Valve: A general term for the knife gate valve and the
parallel slide valve.
Specifically, the term is used for parallel gate valves

of the lab design working at high temperatures, low
pressure and equipped with purging facilities. This
valve design is used for gas/catalyst service on cat
cracking units in refineries.
Sleeved -Plug Valve: As a lined plug valve except that the sleeve of PTFE
or similar polymer material is machined and press
fitted or keyed instead of moulded into the valve
body.
Slurry: A product consisting of solids mixed with liquid to

assist transportation through piping systems. The
solids vary widely and may be abrasive, non-
abrasive, hard or fibrous materials.
Small Bore Valve: A term generally used for valves of 2 in. NB and
less.
RP 62-1 PAGE 145

Socket Weld End: A valve with counterbored end(s) into which piping
is fitted and fillet welded to make a joint.
Soft Seat Insert: See seat insert.
Soft Seated Valve: A valve with primary seats manufactured from

elastomers, polymers and similar resilient or semi-
resilient materials.
Soft Seated Wedge Gate Valves: A wedge gate valve in which primary soft seating is
used. Seating may be a solid PTFE seat, a soft seat
insert, either in the valve body or in the wedge gate
closure.
Solenoid Valve: A linear action block valve, generally of globe type,

fitted with a solenoid for quick operation.
Solid Wedge Disc: A disc or wedge of one piece.
S P: An abbreviation for steam pressure. A number

following the abbreviation is the maximum non-
shock operating pressure in psi at a given
temperature.
Split Wedge Gate: Gate valve having a wedge, comprising of two parts
in order to provide flexibility and resistance to
thermal wedging.
Stop Check or Screw Down A valve which automatically closes when flow
Non-Return Valve: reverses and which can be screwed down into a stop
or closed position.
Swing Check Valve: A valve which has a swinging disc that opens with
the pressure of the flow and closes automatically
when the pressure drops.
Throttling: Regulation of flow through a valve.
Trim: Internal components isolating or regulating the flow

(e.g. wetted parts) which include seating surfaces,
closure members (gate, disc, ball, plug etc.), stem,
bearings, guides and associated parts.
Uni-Directional Valve: A valve designed to seal in one flow direction.
Upstream Seated Valve: A valve that when closed, seals by line pressure
acting on the upstream seat.
RP 62-1 PAGE 146

Valve Closure Member: That part of a valve which is positioned to close,
open, or to control the amount of flow.
Valve Operator: The valve part or parts through which a force is

applied to move or position the seat valve closure
member on seat.
Valve Operator, Manual: A valve operator consisting of a hand lever, wheel

or other manual devices.
Valve Operator, Mechanical: A valve operator consisting of a cam, lever, roller,

screw, spring, stem or other mechanical devices.
Valve, Pressure Reducing: A valve whose primary function is to limit outlet

pressure.
Valve Port: A controllable opening between passage, that is one

which can be closed, opened or varied. Sometimes
refers to the inlet or outlet openings of the valve.
Valve, Shut-Off: A valve designed to operate fully open or fully

closed, and not at intermediate positions.
Venturi Throat Valve: A valve having a reduced port opening at the seat
with the body throat graded to produce a venturi
effect to minimise the velocity head losses and
pressure drop through the valve.
V Port Plug or Ball: A type of valve closure member (plug or ball) having
a ‘V’ shaped orifice; it has good throttling
characteristics.
Wiper Ring: A ring which removes material by a wiping action.
Yoke: That part of a valve which connects the valve

actuator to the valve body.
Y Type Globe Valve: See ‘Oblique Pattern’.
RP 62-1 PAGE 147


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RP 62-1

GUIDE TO VALVE SELECTION

Copyright © The British Petroleum Company p.l.c.

Issue Date November 1998

GUIDE TO VALVE SELECTION

CUSTODIAN (See Status List for Contact)

SELECTION OF CHECK AND DIVERTER VALVES................................................. 11

3. VALVE TYPES, FUNCTION AND APPLICATIONS (GENERAL)......................... 15

4. SERVICE CHARACTERISTICS ................................................................................ 24

5. VALVE OPERATION & ISOLATION ....................................................................... 30

RP 62-1 PAGE iii

APPENDIX G .................................................................................................................. 100

APPENDIX H .................................................................................................................. 116

APPENDIX I ................................................................................................................... 123

Introduction to BP Group Recommended Practices and Specifications for Engineering

Value of this Recommended Practice

Text in italics is Commentary. Commentary provides background information which supports

Feedback and Further Information

This Recommended Practice gives guidance on the choice of common

(b) Line Pressure Range 150 lb to 2500 lb class rating to

(c) Design Temperature Range -196°C to 650°C.

(e) Fluid Range Clean and dirty service

It excludes valve actuators, modulating control valves, safety and relief

Appendices D to F are supplementary commentary that include further

Valve selection in this Recommended Practice is made from a

(a) Valve function

The selection of valves requires consideration of the many factors in

General technical factors that must be taken into account include:-

There will also be commercial factors which influence valve choice in

2.2 Valve Function

2.3 Service Characteristics

Appropriate valve selection is dependent on complete knowledge of the

(a) Fluid Type

The fluid being handled should be classified as liquid; gas; two

(b) Fluid Characteristics

The fluid may be attributed with one or more of the following

(c) Pressure, Temperature Limitations and Chemical Resistance

Valves are normally allocated a rating according to the

(d) Operation and Maintenance Requirements

Operational and maintenance requirements can influence

These requirements are discussed in more detail in Section 5.

2.4 Selection of Valve Types

Table 1 - Selection of Isolation (Block) Valves - Service

Tables 4 and 8 give guidance on materials availability and Table 5

Concentric, metal disk/seat

Eccentric, metal disk/seat

Concentric, rubber lined

Trunnion Mounted ball

Concentric other lining

Eccentric, rubber lined

Eccentric, soft seat

Conduit split gate

Oblique ('Y' type)

Liquid (and two phase)

Solids (Powder etc.) X X X C X X X X C C X X X X C C X X X X X X X X X X X C C C C C C

Fluid Large Susp. Solids

Notes on Flow Resistance

SELECTION OF ISOLATION (BLOCK) VALVES (SERVICE CONDITIONS)

Concentric, metal disk/seat

Eccentric, metal disk/seat