Valve test benches: Safety first

The testing of valves is of central importance for the safety and efficiency of industrial plants. Particularly in sectors such as the chemical industry, power generation and water management, valves must be regularly checked for functionality in order to recognise and reduce potential risks at an early stage. Safety valves in particular are subject to especially high inspection requirements. A thorough inspection ensures that the valves function reliably. It is essential to take into account the relevant legal requirements and guidelines such as the Pressure Equipment Directive (PED) as well as standards such as DIN EN 12266 and international standards such as ASME and API. Compliance with these specifications not only contributes to safety, but also to the competitiveness of companies.

The valve industry is subject to continuous change, especially due to technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), big data and cloud computing, which provide more intelligence and automation. Smart valves enable functions such as remote control, autonomous adjustments and fault diagnostics, helping to increase efficiency and reduce energy consumption. New materials that can withstand extreme conditions enable the production of valves that are more durable and require less maintenance. The increasing digitalisation of industrial processes is also increasing the need for automated valves for more precise control and monitoring.

Regular inspections enable the early detection of potential defects or signs of wear. This allows necessary repairs or maintenance work to be carried out in good time before a failure occurs, which could shorten the service life of the valve and cause considerable costs and time expenditure for operators. After the repair, the inspection ensures that the valve is ready for use again.

Digitalisation and automation are moving into focus 

Automation is also becoming increasingly important in traditional valve testing. Highly automated testing systems, which are specially designed for series testing and can be seamlessly integrated into existing production processes, are playing an increasingly important role. The increasing networking of valve test benches and computer systems is also increasing the complexity of these systems. As more and more measurement data is recorded and processed digitally, the software aspect is becoming increasingly important. Manufacturers of valve test benches are working closely and continuously with their customers to meet the growing and dynamically changing requirements.

The rise of hydrogen as a potential energy source of the future poses new challenges for the valve industry. Valves used in hydrogen applications must meet particularly high material requirements, as hydrogen can penetrate the crystal lattice of metals and make them brittle. Not only must the materials and seals of the valves withstand the special conditions, but the test benches must also work reliably under these demanding conditions.