Valves are indispensable components in the design and operation of chemical and petrochemical systems, as their role is central to ensuring process stability, safety and regulatory compliance, says valve and pump solution specialist Brimis Engineering MD Andile Nqandela.

The industrial valve market serving the chemical and petrochemical sectors faces various structural and operational challenges that impact on supply reliability and system performance. These challenges are particularly pronounced in environments where process continuity, safety compliance and cost control are critical.

For example, Nqandela notes that companies in the sector rely on global sourcing for specialised valve components and corrosion-resistant alloys, which often results in extended lead times and cost volatility.

Moreover, the limited local manufacturing capacity for high-specification valves further entrenches this reliance on imports, with these specialty products subject to currency fluctuations and logistical delays.

Nqandela adds that the transition to smart valve technologies, such as Internet-of-Things- (IoT-) enabled sensors and digital positioners, requires investment in compatible control systems and skilled personnel for integration and maintenance. Further, many facilities operate with legacy infrastructure, making retrofitting and digital upgrades complex and resource-intensive.

On operational and life-cycle challenges, he notes that ageing assets and deferred maintenance contribute to unplanned downtime, increased operational risk and higher life-cycle costs, while the lack of standardised condition-monitoring practices across facilities limits the ability to implement predictive maintenance strategies effectively.

“Addressing these challenges requires a coordinated approach involving technical innovation, investment in local capabilities, and strategic partnerships focused on life-cycle asset management and regulatory alignment,” he avers.

Valve Selection 

Nqandela notes that valves serve as mechanical control devices that regulate the movement of process media under varying pressure, temperature and chemical conditions.

It is important to control the rate and direction of flow within pipelines and process vessels, thereby allowing for the precise management of reaction kinetics, heat transfer and separation processes.

When equipped with actuators and instrumentation equipment, valves become part of a plant’s control architecture, allowing for automated operation, remote diagnostics and real-time process adjustments, Nqandela adds.

In high-risk environments, valve performance directly influences plant uptime, environmental compliance and occupational health and safety.

Therefore, a well-informed valve selection process ensures not only technical compatibility but also long-term operational reliability, safety and regulatory compliance, Nqandela notes.

Brimis Engineering highlights that the selection of valves is a technically intensive process, and a poorly specified valve can lead to inefficiencies, safety risks and premature equipment failure.

Valve selection includes material compatibility, whereby the valve body, trim and sealing materials must be chemically resistant to the process media. Material selection is based on corrosion data, temperature limits and mechanical strength.

Regarding pressure and temperature ratings, Nqandela highlights that valves must be rated for the maximum allowable working pressure and temperature of a system: this includes the consideration of pressure surges, thermal cycling and transient conditions.

The choice between manual, pneumatic, electric or hydraulic actuation depends on the level of control required, safety zoning and energy availability, and the mean time between failures, which are viewed as essential for life-cycle cost optimisation.

Through engineering expertise, responsive service and a deep understanding of process environments, the company supports its clients in achieving operational excellence and long-term asset performance, Nqandela concludes.