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Key Information for Permanent Marking on Globe Valves

Permanent marking on globe valves is not just a regulatory requirement—it is critical for safety, maintenance, traceability, and operational accuracy throughout the valve’s lifecycle. The markings must be durable (resistant to corrosion, temperature, and wear) and legible, typically applied via engraving, stamping, laser marking, or embossing on non-wearing parts (e.g., valve body, bonnet, nameplate).

 

Below is a detailed breakdown of the information that must or should be permanently marked, aligned with industry standards such as ASME B16.34 (Valves—Flanged, Threaded, and Welding End), API 600 (Steel Gate Valves—Flanged and Butt-Welding Ends, Bolted Bonnet), and regional regulations (e.g., EU PED for pressure equipment):

1. Basic Valve Identification

This information identifies the valve’s core attributes and manufacturer, enabling quick recognition and traceability.

 

  • Manufacturer’s Name/Trademark: The legal name or registered logo of the valve producer (e.g., Emerson, Cameron). Ensures accountability for quality and support.
  • Manufacturer’s Model/Part Number: A unique code assigned by the manufacturer to specify the valve’s design, size, and configuration (e.g., GV-600-CF8-20). Critical for ordering spare parts or replacements.
  • Serial Number: A one-of-a-kind identifier for each individual valve. Enables full lifecycle tracking (e.g., production date, material batches, maintenance history) and recall management if issues arise.

2. Pressure & Temperature Ratings

These markings define the valve’s safe operating limits—exceeding them can lead to catastrophic failures (e.g., leakage, body rupture).

 

  • Nominal Pressure Class (Pressure Rating): The standardized pressure rating (e.g., 150LB, 300LB, 600LB, 900LB) that indicates the maximum pressure the valve can withstand at a reference temperature (per ASME B16.34). For example, a “600LB” marking means the valve is rated for 600 pounds per square inch (psi) at 100°F (38°C) for carbon steel.
  • Maximum Allowable Working Pressure (MAWP): The highest pressure the valve can safely handle at its design temperature (may differ from the nominal class for non-standard materials like CF8 stainless steel).
  • Temperature Range: The minimum and maximum temperatures the valve can operate in without material degradation (e.g., -20°F to 600°F for CF8 stainless steel globe valves).

3. Material Specifications

Markings here confirm the valve’s compatibility with process fluids (e.g., corrosive chemicals, high-temperature steam) and ensure compliance with industry standards.

 

  • Body Material: The material of the valve’s main body (e.g., “CF8” for 304 stainless steel, “WCB” for carbon steel, “C12A” for chrome-moly steel). This is critical for corrosion resistance and strength.
  • Trim Material (Optional but Recommended): The material of internal components (disc, seat, stem) that contact the process fluid (e.g., “13Cr” for mild corrosion, “Stellite 6” for abrasion resistance). Trim compatibility prevents premature wear.

4. Size & End Connection Details

These markings ensure the valve fits correctly into the piping system and avoids misinstallation.

 

  • Nominal Pipe Size (NPS): The standard size of the valve’s inlet/outlet (e.g., NPS 2, NPS 4). Note: NPS is a nominal measurement, not the actual inner diameter.
  • End Connection Type: The method used to connect the valve to the pipeline (e.g., “RF” for Raised Face flange, “BW” for Butt-Weld, “NPT” for National Pipe Thread). For flanged valves, include the flange standard (e.g., “ASME B16.5” for flanged dimensions).

5. Regulatory & Standard Compliance

Markings here verify that the valve meets mandatory safety and performance standards, which is essential for industries like oil & gas, chemicals, or power generation.

 

  • Standard Compliance: Symbols or labels indicating adherence to key standards (e.g., “ASME B16.34” for design, “API 602” for small forged valves, “ISO 10497” for fire-safe design).
  • Pressure Equipment Directive (PED) Marking (EU): For valves used in the EU, the PED CE mark (e.g., “CE 0086”) plus the “PED Category” (e.g., Cat. II, III) to confirm compliance with pressure equipment safety rules.
  • Fire-Safe Certification (If Applicable): A mark like “API 607” or “ISO 10497” to indicate the valve can maintain sealing integrity during and after a fire (critical for hazardous environments).

6. Operational Direction (For Globe Valves Specifically)

Globe valves are directional—fluid flows through them in a specific path to ensure proper sealing and flow control. A permanent arrow must be marked on the valve body to indicate the recommended flow direction (e.g., “FLOW →”). Installing the valve in reverse can cause poor performance, seat damage, or increased pressure drop.

Why Permanent Marking Matters

  • Safety: Prevents operation beyond pressure/temperature limits, reducing leak or rupture risks.
  • Maintenance: Enables technicians to quickly identify spare parts, material compatibility, and service history.
  • Compliance: Meets regulatory requirements for traceability and safety in high-risk industries.
  • Error Prevention: Avoids misinstallation (e.g., wrong flow direction, mismatched pipe size) that could disrupt processes.

 

Always ensure markings are visible (not covered by insulation or paint) and durable enough to withstand the valve’s operating environment—this guarantees the information remains usable for the valve’s entire service life
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