Lecture Notes on API 600

Introduction to API 600

• API stands for American Petroleum Institute.
• API releases numerous product standards, testing standards, and qualification standards for valve manufacturing and application.
• Importance of understanding codes and standards for those involved in valve industries.

Overview of API 600

• Focus on gate valves, specifically API 600 standards.
• API 600 is applicable for bolted bonnet gate valves.
• Current standard: 13th edition (Jan 2015), with a 14th edition expected this year.
• Standard covers design, material selection, testing, marking, and packaging.

Types of Gate Valves

• Bolted Bonnet: Connection between body and bonnet is flanged and bolted with gasket.
• Pressure Seal Design: Uses internal pressure to seal the gasket; more compact and suited for larger sizes.

Specifications of API 600

• Size Range: ½ inch to 42 inches.
• Pressure Classes: 150 to 2500.
• Covers types of gate valves including bolted bonnet and outside screw rising/non-rising stems.

Applications of API 600 Gate Valves

• Primarily designed for refineries, petrochemical industries, power plants, and water industries.
• Gate valves are linear motion valves; used for on/off applications, not suitable for throttling.
• Bi-directional valve with metal-to-metal seating suitable for high pressure and temperature applications.

Design Features as per API 600

• Gate Valve Components: Body, bonnet, disk, seat rings, and stem.
• Importance of gasket to prevent leakage.
• Valve operation: fully open or fully closed; not recommended for intermediate positions.

Standards Referenced by API 600

• Cross-references several standards (e.g., ASME B16.10, B16.5, B16.47).
• Emphasizes wall thickness, pressure ratings, and corrosion resistance.

Scope of API 600 Standard

• Specifies requirements for every duty series bolted bonnet steel gate valves.
• Outlines size and pressure range.
• Covers various types of gate designs (e.g., solid wedge, flexible wedge).

Detailed Design Aspects

• Wall Thickness: Varies based on pressure class and size.
• Gate Designs: Includes solid, flexible, and parallel slide gates.
• Packing and Stem Design: Importance of packing materials and proper design to prevent leaks.

Testing and Inspection Requirements

• Visual examinations for damage and legibility of markings.
• Testing according to API 598, ensuring compliance to allowed leakage levels.

Marking and Shipment Requirements

• Proper marking for traceability.
• Valves should be shipped in closed position to protect seating surfaces.
• Emphasis on protective packaging to prevent damage during transport.

Conclusion

• Understanding API 600 is crucial for manufacturers and users to ensure compliance and efficiency in valve operation.
• Importance of specifying requirements accurately to manufacturers to prevent operational issues.