Dresser-Rand Unveils New Valve

Dresser-Rand, a global supplier of rotating equipment solutions to the oil, gas, petrochemical, and process industries, launched its new Magnum® HammerHead™ valve.

Specifically designed for high molecular weight applications at both low and high compressor speeds, the new valve can be applied to all brands of reciprocating compressors.

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and finite element analysis (FEA) were used to develop the HammerHead valve’s geometry, improving the valve flow area by as much as 60 percent compared to standard Magnum® valves. Minimal valve losses translate into improved compressor efficiency. While undergoing development, flow testing revealed that the HammerHead valve surpassed all other valve types tested, including poppet, plate and ring-type valves.

Setting the HammerHead valve apart from other poppet valves is its ability to be applied at high compressor speeds. Its unique element design minimizes tensile stresses. The streamlined flow path with optimized seat, guard and lift areas, maximizes valve flow area and is more tolerant of particles and liquids in the gas. Only one element is used for all valve sizes, which simplifies inventory management, minimizes replacement costs and increases interchangeability.

Precision-guided element and springs increase the reliability of moving parts for long-term operation of the valve. Its proven element geometry reduces fatigue stresses for extended life, while minimizing power losses, which result in a long life in some of the most demanding applications.

The results delivered by the new valves, so far, include lower power consumption and a corresponding increase in compressor flow. In addition, several clients have benefitted from improved valve reliability and compressor efficiencies after upgrading to this new valve.