Smart Valve Gearbox Delivers Swift Detection of Fugitive Emissions

Published: 3rd February 2017 | Issue 40

Shown here in prototype form, the Rotork Fugitive Emission Detector Gearbox™uses pioneering technology to detect fugitive emissions from valves.

A significant percentage of the fugitive emissions generated in a process plant comes from the valves. Plant operators are incurring increasing capital and operating costs in tackling these issues.

Valve manufacturers are constantly improving their products to reduce the risk of fugitive emission leakage, but when the problem still occurs, it leads to loss of profit and revenue, increased maintenance costs and contamination of the environment.

To meet this challenge, Rotork Gears is developing a new smart gearbox designed with an extra function for leak detection. This pioneering technology is a method of detecting fugitive emissions using the valve operator.

The Fugitive Emission Detector Gearbox™ surpasses existing technology as it forms an integral part of the valve operator and is not an external measurement device. It accurately detects leakage within the cavity formed between the valve and valve operator.

No labour input is required after commissioning as live and continuous information is relayed via a wired or wireless network to the chosen destination. The prompt notification of fugitive emissions to the appropriate personnel facilitates significant reductions in the severity of any leaks and the timely repair or replacement of leaking equipment.

The technology does not interfere with valve operation and does not require specific knowledge of the valve. In addition to the direct detection of leaking fluids the system can be used as a diagnostic tool to minimise the need for preventative maintenance and increase the effectiveness of asset management.

The Fugitive Emission Detector Gearbox™ is Patent Pending; Patent Application Number GB1604656.7.

Tel: +44(0)113 256 7922
Email: information@rotork.com
Web: www.rotork.com

Rotork UK