Production • Processing • Handling
Inconel 718, which also helps guarantee that rigorous safety specifications are met. Carrying out a full engineering review of components such as adapter plates, bolts, couplings and stem materials and procuring these items from the actuator manufacturer also ensures that the package will fit together correctly. Crucially, it can also prevent mistakes
and ‘grey areas’ arising in the supply chain process when, for instance, the components have been sourced from different third-party suppliers – a common source of headaches and delays. A full review of the control system should also be conducted – again using engineering disciplines to ensure the right components are assembled.
On-track and on-time Once the engineering issues are resolved, the project moves on to the manufacturing phase. Here, communication is key, which is why the supplier will ensure the valve and actuator manufacturers are clear on the specifications at an early stage and that all the necessary components fit together first time. In addition, scheduling and submitting inspection and test plans ensures the manufacturer knows that formal inspection processes will take place and will maintain discipline and punctuality throughout the order. A pre-inspection meeting between all
parties again ensures the necessary tests and documentation are provided and that all expectations are met without disruption during the testing phase.
Typically, however, these VACs often do not have the depth of facilities found at manufacturers’ facilities. For this reason, HSP believes a
more effective approach for suppliers is to leverage strong relationships with manufacturers and schedule the testing phase at the manufacturer’s premises, ensuring access to a wider-range of valve types, lifting equipment and pressure and temperature testing capabilities. Tis also removes the potential requirement for a re-test, in turn ensuring the actuation package is certified and passed for delivery in the fastest possible time.
Fig. 2. Documentation and certification is fundamental. Often, global distributors use Valve
Actuation Centres (VAC) to test the valve and actuator in a workshop environment.
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Issue of documentation Documentation and certification is a fundamental part of the procurement process as it enables oil and gas assets in particular to trace components. Without the necessary documentation, the order cannot be finalised. A further priority task for the supplier is to submit a general arrangement drawing that shows the valve and actuator together. When buying directly from a manufacturer or VAC these drawings will typically not be provided quickly and yet they are often crucial for clients as they lay out facilities. For this reason, unlike many other suppliers, HSP guarantees the drawings are delivered within four to six weeks. Tis added service is extremely valuable for the client, as it allows engineering work to continue and ensures the programme stays on schedule. No matter how many valve and actuator manufacturers are involved in the order, the documentation for actuation packages needs to be presented in a consistent format and in accordance with the client’s requirements. It should also include pre-approved inspection materials such as ATEX and SIL electrical design certification. To help ensure projects stay
on track, HSP ensures final delivery of dossiers within four weeks of the actuation package arriving at the plant or asset. ●
Be responsive to change
In addition to strong engineering acumen and supply chain relationships, the most important quality a good actuation supplier needs to have is responsiveness.
Specifically, this means orders should be adapted in accordance with engineering comments and changes need to be adhered to without issue – however late in the process. Notices for inspection should be on time and the inspector should always have access to the right people and the appropriate documentation.
Gordon McNair is engineering manager with HSP Valves, Newbury, Berkshire, UK.
www.hsp.co.uk
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