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GAS/VAPOUR SIZING
0705

TS30 Control Valve Selection for

Compressible Fluid Flows
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Contents

Contents _______________________________________________________________2
TS30 Control Valve Selection for Compressible Flows ___________________________3
TS30.1 Nomenclature __________________________________________________________________ 4
TS30.2 Gas/Vapour Flow Valve Sizing Procedure ____________________________________________ 5
TS30.3 Process/Application Data Requirements ______________________________________________ 6
TS31 Gas/Vapour Sizing ___________________________________________________7
TS31.1 Introduction to Gas/Vapour Flow Valve Sizing ________________________________________ 7
TS31.1.1 Introduction ______________________________________________________________ 7
TS31.1.1 Expansion Correction Factor _________________________________________________ 7
TS31.1.1 Multi-stage Correction Factor ________________________________________________ 7
TS31.1.1 Flow Regimes ____________________________________________________________ 7
TS31.1.1 Normal Flow _____________________________________________________________ 7
TS31.1.2 Choked (Critical) Flow _____________________________________________________ 8
TS31.1.2 Mach Number/Shock Waves_________________________________________________ 8
TS31.1.2 Energy Conversion and Pressure Drop Limitations________________________________ 8
TS31.2 Gas/Vapour Sizing Equations ______________________________________________________ 9
TS31.2.1 Valve Flow Coefficiet ______________________________________________________ 9
TS32 Gas/Vapour Velocity_________________________________________________18
TS32.1 Introdction _______________________________________________________________ 18
TS32.2 Factors Influencing Velocity Limits ____________________________________________ 19
TS32.2 Velcity Calculations ________________________________________________________ 19
TS33 Gas/Vapour Noise Prediction__________________________________________22
TS33.1 Aerodynamic Noise Generation ___________________________________________________ 22
TS33.1 Prediction of Aerodynamic Noise______________________________________________ 22
TS33.1 Pipework Generated Noise ___________________________________________________ 22
TS33.1 Noise Due to Vibration______________________________________________________ 22
TS33.1 Poor Pipework Configuration_________________________________________________ 22
TS33.2 Methods of Noise Abatement _____________________________________________________ 23
TS33.2 Source Treatment __________________________________________________________ 23
TS33.2 Downstream Attenuators ____________________________________________________ 24
TS33.3 Line Treatment ____________________________________________________________ 24
TS33.4 Noise Prediction Technique for Gas/Vapour Flows ________________________________ 25
TS33.13 Gas/Vapour Noise Level Prediction Technique For In Line Attenuators _______________ 34
TS33.14 Frequency Spectrum of Aerodynamic Noise ____________________________________ 35

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TS30 Control Valve Selection for Compressible Fluid Flows

Selection of a control valve for a compressible flow (gas vapour) application requires examination of a number
of factors, which should be considered in a logical sequence. This section of the Technical Manual provides the
information required to examine these factors, which include the Cv calculation, fluid velocity and noise level
prediction. It is important to note that omission of these aspects could lead to incorrect selection of a control
valve for a particular application.

The Cv calculation includes consideration of the flow regime together with the effects of compressibility and
staging the pressure drop. Additionally, a technique for evaluating the effect of pipework configuration on the
calculated Cv is presented.

Another important consideration in selection of a valve on a compressible flow application is aerodynamic noise
generation, this also encompasses fluid velocity calculations.

PAGE 3
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Nomenclature

Unit Description Imp SI

Cv, Valve Flow Coefficient U.S. units U.S. units

Cvvisc Viscous Flow Coefficient U.S. units U.S. units
Cvr Valve/Reducer Flow Coefficient U.S. units U.S. units
Valve Flow Coefficient S.I. units S.!. units
Cf Valve Pressure Recovery Factor - -

Cfr Valve/Reducer Pressure Recovery Factor - -

d Valve Bore Size inches mm

D Pipe Bore Size inches mm
F Pipe/Reducer Corrector Factor - -
Ki Coefficient of Incipient Cavitation - -
KBi Inlet Bernoulli Coefficient - -
Kin Inlet Head Loss - -
K1 Inlet Loss Coefficient - -
Kout Outlet Loss Coefficient - -
n Number of Pressure Drop Stages - -
P1 Upstream Pressure p.s.i.a. BarA
P2 Downstream Pressure p.s.i.a. BarA
∆P Pressure Drop across Valve p.s.i. BarA
∆Ps Sizing Pressure Drop p.s.i. Bar
∆Plimit Limiting Pressure Drop for Critical Flow p.s.i. Bar
∆Pvrlimit Limiting Pressure Drop across p.s.i. Bar
Valve/Reducer
T1 Inlet Temperature °F °C
Q Volume Flow Rate Sft3/hr Nm3/hr
W Mass Flow Rate lb/hr kg/hr
G Specific Gravity - -
Mw Molecular Weight - -
Z Compressibility Factor - -
a Speed of Sound - -
Mn Mach Number - -
v Fluid Velocity ft/sec rn/sec

SPL Sound Pressure Level dBA dBA

X Pressure Coefficient - -
Y Pressure Ratio Coefficient - -
Z Sizing Factor Coefficient - -
N
Hg Trim Attenuation Factor - -
E
D
AT Temperature Attenuation -

Greek Characters
θ Pipe Reducer Angle degrees degrees
γ Ratio of Specific Heats - -
ρ Fluid Density lb/ft3 kg/rn3

TS30.1 PAGE 4
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Gas/Vapour Flow Valve Sizing Procedure

The following flowchart details the overall sequence of steps used during the sizing and selection of a control
valve for a particular gas/vapour flow application. For individual consideration of gas/vapour sizing, velocity and
aerodynamically generated noise, reference should be made to Sections TS31, TS32 and TS33 respectively.

START

Select Trim Style*

Determine the Valve Flow Coefficient

Select Design CV and Valve

Determine Cf Value at Valve Opening

N

Re-calculate Valve Flow Coefficient

Calculate Pipework Correction

Is Design CV OK?

Yes

Calculate Flow Velocities

Is Velocity Select Design CV & Valve Size

Yes

Calculate Sound Pressure Level

N
Is SPL OK Select Different Trim Style

Yes

* Pressure drop limit 100 Bar (1450 psi) per stage

END

TS30.3 PAGE 5
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Process/Application Data Requirements

The information required to fully specify the size and type of valve for gas/vapour service applications can be
broken down into different categories. For valve sizing and selection, this information can be classified as
essential, preferred or additional. The following chart categorises the information required into these three
areas. The information presented here relates to valve selection only, for actuator selection refer to TS8O.

Process Units Flow Units - Temp Units -

Flow Condition Max Normal Minimum
1 Quantity
2 Line Fluid
3 Flow Rate
4 Inlet
5 Pressures Outlet
6 P
7 Temp. at Inlet
8 Molecular Weight MW
9 Compressibility Factor, Z
10 Ratio of Specific Heats, γ
11
12 DP Actuator Sizing
13 Design Press./Temp.
14 Line Size In/Out/Sch.
15 SPL (dBA) Max.Limit
16 Predicted SPL (dBA)
17 Calculated Cv
18
19 Valve Size C.M. Trim
20 Body Form Design CV
21 Catalogue No.
22 End Conns. Style Rating
23 Rated Press. Temp.
24 Body Material
25 No of Seats Design
26 Trim Type Rings
27 Char’s Flow Dir
28 Material
29 Type of Bonnet
30 Packing Lub. /Lub No
31 Max. Leakage
32 Stem Dia Valve Duty

Absolute minimum flow information (essential)

Information required for full analysis (preferred)

Additional design information

Full valve specification

TS30.3 PAGE 6

TS31 Gas/Vapour Sizing
Gas/Vapour Flows
Introduction
The flow of a liquid through a control valve may be
considered as ‘incompressible flow’ provided it does not
produce vapours as described in Technical Data Sheet
TS2O. This type of flow does not produce any
significant change in density at any point on the flow
path. Gas and Vapour flow, however is quite different
because they expand with a fall in pressure and
compress with an increase in pressure. The flow of any
fluid through a control valve is accompanied by
appreciable variations in density from the valve inlet to
the outlet. The greatest change is a reduction in density
due to the drop in pressure from the valve inlet to the
vena-contracta. This change in density must be
considered in the calculation of the size of trim required
for a control valve handling a gas or a vapour (a
compressible fluid).
Expansion Correction Factor
Valve sizing formulae for compressible fluids can be
quite complicated due to the inclusion of terms
recognising the change in density of the fluid. To avoid
such complicated formulae an Expansion Correction
Factor can be introduced for compressible fluids. This
Expansion Correction Factor is a function of the
thermodynamic properties of the fluid and compensates
for the differences between gases and liquids in the
coefficient of velocity and contraction.
Multi-stage Correction Factor
correct The arguments put forward in the previous
sections of this technical data sheet all refer to
compressible fluids flowing through a control valve,
which has a single stage trim (one step of pressure
reduction). Kent Introl designs control valves for very
high-pressure drop services, which incorporate multi-
stage pressure reduction trims. It has already been
explained that gases and vapours undergo changes of
state with increases and decreases of pressure. Liquids
do not to any significant extent.
For the calculation of liquid flow through a multi-stage
trim the same sizing formulae can be used as for the
single stage trims but of course the Cv value must be
inserted for the multi-stage trim.
S31.1.1
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In the case of gases, some adjustment is required to
the single stage trim sizing formulae for these to be
suitable for multi-stage trims. This is necessary
because gases undergo significant changes of state
(pressure/volume/ temperature) between each
pressure reduction stage, which are not taken into
account in the single stage trim formulae. A multi-stage
correction factor, VH, has been developed which
renders these formulae suitable for multi-stage control
valve sizing. It takes into account the effect on the
gas/vapour flow of the changes in stage between the
pressure let down stages. It is not a constant for each
type and size of trim but varies with the ratio of the
pressure drop to the inlet pressure ∆P / P1.
Flow Regimes
It is explained in technical data sheet TS20 how liquids
can flow through control valves in two principal regimes.
There is Normal Flow where the flowing quantity is
proportional to the square root of the pressure drop
across the valve, and Choked (or Critical) Flow when
cavitation and flashing develop and increases in
pressure drop produce no increase in flowing quantity.
A similar phenomenon exists with gases and vapours.
These have two principal flow regimes; Normal Flow
and Choked (or Critical) Flow.
Normal Flow
The Normal Flow regime as its name implies is the
most usual. Throughout this regime, an increase in
pressure drop across the valve produces an increase in
flowing quantity. At low pressure ratios (P1 /P2) the flow
is almost proportional to the square root of the pressure
drop, similar to the liquid normal flow regime, but as the
pressure ratio increases (higher pressure drops) the
compressibility effects of the fluid begin to have a
pronounced effect on its behavior. The relationship
between flow and pressure drop gradually diminishes
until further increases in the pressure ratio (P1/P2)
produces no further increase in flow. The Normal Flow
Regime has then ceased and the Critical (or Choked)
Flow Regime has started.
PAGE 7

Choked (Critical) Flow
It follows from the preceding paragraph that choking is
considered to occur when with constant upstream
conditions, the flow rate through the valve cannot be
increased further by reducing the downstream
pressure.
A physical explanation of the phenomenon is that the
information of any reduction of pressure downstream of
the throat has to be propagated upstream in the form of
a rare fraction wave. However, the fastest portion of
such a wave has a velocity that equals sonic velocity.
Thus, once the velocity at the throat reaches sonic
velocity, no information can be transmitted upstream so
the fluid is unaware of any further reduction of pressure
in the downstream pipe. It can be shown that critical
(choked) flow across convergent and divergent nozzle
occurs when:
γ
Pvc  2  γ −1
= 
Pout  γ + 1 
In a flow restriction such as an orifice or a valve, the
stream forms its natural contour (see Fig 21.2 ), and the
minimum flow area of the jet stream is located just
downstream of the minimum flow area (at the vena
contracta).
Choking of the flow starts to occur when the velocity of
the fluid at the vena contracta reaches sonic velocity.
Once the maximum velocity has been achieved, further
reduction in the downstream pressure will lead to an
increase in the area of the jet at the vena contracta.
However, the flow does not become fully choked until
the vena contracta has moved back towards the orifice
and has achieved its maximum size. Only then does
the flow become fully choked.
TS31.2.1
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Mach Number/Shock Waves
Sound is propagated by means of a succession of very
small pressure waves. The speed of propagation of a
very small pressure wave (relative to the fluid) is:
a = γRT
This velocity is known as the sonic velocity or acoustic
velocity in the gas.
When the velocity of the fluid at a particular point is less
than the velocity of sound, small pressure waves can
be propagated both upstream and downstream.
However, when the velocity of the fluids exceeds, the
local sonic velocity a small pressure wave cannot be
propagated upstream. The local speed of sound, a,
sharply divides two essentially different types of flows.
In compressible flows, it is useful to express the velocity
of the fluid in terms of the sonic velocity. The ratio (fluid
velocity ÷sonic velocity) is known as the Mach Number
(Ma).
Fluid velocities less than the sonic velocity are known
as subsonic (M<1), those greater than the sonic
velocity is supersonic (M>1).
Energy Conversion and Pressure Drop
Limitations.
During the selection of the valve trim design it is neces-
sary that the energy conversion levels and pressure
drop across the valve are considered. Generally, by
ensuring predicted Sound Pressure Level is less than
110 dBA will ensure that the correct trim design has
been selected for the level of energy dissipation. With
respect to pressure drop a maximum of 100 bar (1450
psi) is allowed per stage of pressure letdown.
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y
 ∆p  S
Gas/Vapour Flow Sizing Equations K = S1 1 − 2 S  where y = − S23 31.04
 C f P1  Fk
Valve Flow Coefficient
The valve flow coefficient (Cv) discussed in TS 50 is Note that the minimum value of K =1 and that the
used to determine the valve and trim size required to maximum value corresponding to critical flow conditions
provide the capacity (and control) for a particular flow are given in Table 31.2.
rate at a specified pressure drop. A Cv calculation
should be performed at maximum, normal and
d) A Multi-stage correction factor is applied when
minimum operating conditions to ensure both
multi-stage trims are specified. This can be either
rangeability and maximum required capacity of the
read from Figure 31.9 or calculated using the
valve can be achieved. The design Cv should be
following equations.
selected to give suitable valve opening at normal
operating conditions.
Single stage trims VH = 1
a) Determine the compressible flow coefficients, Cf ∆p
and R. Refer to Table 31.1 for values of R and Cfr Two stage trims VH = 1 + 0.33 31.05
if the opening is known see Figure 31.4 - 31.8. P1
∆p
b) Determine the limiting pressure drop Three stage trims VH = 1 + 0.48
P1
corresponding to the occurrence of choked flow
using equation 31.01. f) The Inlet Specific Volume is required if the
mass flow rate valve sizing equations are used.
∆PLIMIT = C 2
f Fk × R × P1 31.01
The equation for calculating the specific volume of
the flow is given below.
c) Set the valve sizing pressure drop, ∆Ps.
IMPERIAL 31.06
Z × 10.72 × (460 + T1 )
If the pressure across the valve is less than the limiting ν1 =
pressure drop then the flow is termed normal and the M W × P1
sizing pressure drop should be set to
METRIC 31.07
Z × 8314 × (273 + T1 )
∆Ps = ∆P 31.02 ν1 =
M W × P1 × 105
If the pressure drop is greater than the limiting pressure g) If the volumetric sizing equations based on
drop then the flow is choked (sonic flow occurs at the
volume flows at reference conditions are used
valve trim) and the sizing pressure drop should be set
then the Compressibility Factor (Z) should be
to
evaluated. To determine Z, calculate the reduced
∆Ps = ∆Plimit 31.03 pressure PR and the reduced temperature TR
using the equations below.
d) The next stage in the calculation procedure is
to calculate the Expansion Correction P1
Factor (K). This takes into account the PR = 31.08
PC
expansion of the fluid as it passes through the
valve. (Note that the coefficients used in this T
TR = 1 31.09
calculation depend upon the number of TC
pressure drop stages within the trim).
The expansion correction factor can be
Using these factors find Z by referring to
determined either by using the equation below
figure 31.10
and reference to Table 31.1 or read from Figures
31.1 — 31.3

TS31.2.2 PAGE 9
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h) The valve flow coefficient (C) should be j) Determine the ratio of the calculated Cv to
calculated using the appropriate equation the design Cv and read the correct value of
below. Cf from Figure 31.4 to 31.8.
(i) Flow by weight
k) Re-calculate the limiting pressure drop using
IMPERIAL 31.10
(b) and repeat steps (c), (d), and (h) and (i).
KW ν1
CV = 0.0158 Table 31.1 Trim Stage Coefficients.
VH ∆p S
Number of stages
METRIC 31.11 One Two Three
KW ν1 R 0.47 0.65 0.75
CV = 0.0366 S, 1.0 0.97 0.9
VH ∆p S
S2 0.65 0.53 0.6
(ii) Flow by volume at Standard reference conditions S3 0.92 0.9 1.0
(T=15.6 °C (6o °F), P=1.013 BarA (14.7 p.s.i.a)).
IMPERIAL 31.12
KQS G ( 460 + T ) Z Table 31.2 Critical K Values.
CV = 0.735 × 10 −3
VH P1∆p S Ratio of Number of stages
METRIC 31.13 Specific Heats y One Two Three
KQS G ( 273 + T ) Z 1.1 1.55 1.73 2.0
CV = 0.241 × 10 −2
VH P1∆p S 1.2 1.54 1.78 2.0
(iii) Flow by volume at Normal reference conditions 1.3 1.53 1.77 2.0
(T=O °C (32 °F), P=1.013 BarA (14.7 p.s.i.a)).
1.4 1.50 1.72 2.0
IMPERIAL 31.14
1.5 1.48 1.70 2.0
KQ N G ( 460 + T ) Z
CV = 0.777 × 10 −3
VH P1∆p S
METRIC 31.15
KQ N G ( 273 + T ) Z
CV = 0.255 × 10 −2
VH P1∆p S
(iv) Flow by volume at actual operating conditions
IMPERIAL 31.16
KQ 1
CV = 0.0158
V H ν 1 ∆p S
METRIC 31.17
KQ 1
CV = 0.0366
V H ν 1 ∆p S
i) Select the valve design Cv, and valve size by
making reference to TS 90. Generally, a design
Cv should be selected so that the valve is
between 50 and 70 % open under normal
operating conditions. For more information
on the selection of design Cv and flow
characteristic refer to TS 60.

TS31.2.2 PAGE 10
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Figure 31.1 K Values for Single Stage Trims.

Figure 31.2 K Values for Two Stage Trims

TS31.2.2 PAGE 11
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Figure 31.3 K Values for Three Stage Trims

TS31.2.4 PAGE 12
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Table 31.3 Compressible Valve Pressure Recovery Factor

Valve Trim Flow
Trim Style Cf (Fully Open)
Type Size Direction
Microspline All sizes Over 1.26
Under 1.19
Full
Over 1.13
Contoured
Under 1.2
Reduced
Series 10 Over 1.06
Ported All sizes Over or under 1.24
HF All sizes Over or under 1.33
HFD All sizes Over or under 1.18
HFT All sizes Over or under 1.11
Under 1.19
Full
Over 1.13
Contoured
Under 1.2
Series 14 Reduced
Over 1.06
Ported All sizes Over or under 1.24
HF All sizes Over or under 1.33
Ported Full Over or under 1.22
HF All sizes Over or under 1.29
XHF All sizes Over or under 1.3
Series 12
HFD All sizes Over or under 1.16
XHFD All sizes Over or under 1.18
HFT, XHFT All sizes Over or under 1.11
Full 1.2
Contoured Over and under
Reduced 1.06
Series 20 HF All sizes Over and under 1.33
HFD All sizes Over and under 1.18
HFT All sizes Over and under 1.11
Mixing and
Series 30/31 ‘V’ Port All sizes 1.21
diverting
Under 1.2
Full
Over 0.50
Contoured
Under 1.26
Reduced
Over 0.66
Series 70/71
Ported All sizes Over or under 1.22
HF All sizes Over or under 1.22
HFD All sizes Over or under 1.3
HFT All sizes Over or under 1.32
Ported All sizes Over or under 1.22
HF All sizes Over or under 1.28
XHF All sizes Over or under 1.29
Series 72/73
HFD All sizes Over or under 1.3
XHFD All sizes Over or under 1.32
HFT,XHFT All sizes Over or under 1.32
Cylindrical All sizes Through 1.26
Fixed area
Flat All sizes Through 1.22

TS31.2.6 PAGE 13
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TS31.2.8 PAGE 14
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TS31.2.8 PAGE 15
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TS31.2.8 PAGE 16
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TS31.2.8 PAGE 17
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TS32 Gas/Vapour Velocity

Introduction

When sizing a control valve, it is usually the trim size which is of interest and most of what has been said in the previous
sections of this data sheet about velocity refers to the velocity of the fluid at the vena contracta. There is, however, a strong
argument for checking the fluid velocity in the valve body inlet and outlet sections. If these velocities exceed the maximum
recommended limits, problems can arise through excessive vibration and noise.

High inlet velocities may result in high dynamic fluid forces acting on the valve plug and stem causing it to vibrate which could
lead to mechanical failure. High outlet velocities may prove to be a source of secondary noise generation but a more serious
problem can develop from excessive outlet velocities with gases and vapours through the formation of shock waves if the
velocity is approaching sonic. These shockwaves, besides generating intolerable noise levels, can impose rapidly changing
forces of high magnitude on the valve plug leading to instability and violent vibration.

This section of the Technical Manual contains the necessary information for valve inlet and outlet velocities to be calculated
along with the values of the recommended maximum limits.

TS32.1 PAGE 18

Factors Influencing Velocity Limits
The main factors influencing the velocity limits
presented in this section are trim design and valve size.
The changes due to valve size, i.e. reduced inlet
velocity with valve size are based upon dynamic
considerations, i.e.
1) Ensuring the frequency of the inlet turbulence is
different to the natural frequency of the trim.
2) Energy conversion considerations.
The outlet velocity levels are limited by a requirement
for velocity levels to be less 0.3 of sonic and also
energy dissipation.
Different trims are by design less prone to vibration due
to velocity impingement, for example a cage guided
plug design is inherently better than a contoured trim
having a top guided design and can therefore be
allowed higher flow velocities
TS32.2
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Velocity Calculations
a) The inlet and outlet velocities can be determined
by utilizing the appropriate equations in Table 32.1.
b) Compare the calculated flow velocity with the
recommended limits presented in Table 32.2.
c) If the velocities are outside these limits then a
larger valve or inlet/outlet flanges should be considered.
It should be noted that there is no exact dividing line
between a correct solution and a solution that will
definitely cause problems. Consequently, when
checking the velocity limits a certain amount of flexibility
should be allowed.
d) In addition to the velocity limitation, there is also
an outlet Mach number limit based on the required
noise level. The fluid sonic velocity can be calculated
from the expressions presented in Table
32.3. The Mach number can be determined from the
expression below.
v
Mn =
a
By referring to Figure 32.1 the minimum noise level that
can be predicted for the corresponding Mach number
can be determined. TS33 also deals with limits of the
outlet Mach number.
PAGE 19
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TABLE 32.1. Gas/Vapour Velocity Equations.

Velocity Internal Pressure Volume Molecular Specific Temp. Mass Specific

Expression for
valve flowrate weight gravity flowrate volume
Mean velocity
diameter
v d P Q M G T W u

v = 0.051uW 3
ft/s inches - - - - - lb/hr ft /lb
d2

v = 354uW rn/s mm - - - - - kg/hr

3
m /kg
d2

v = 1.52x10-3 QT
2 3
ft/s inches lbf/in A Nft /hr - - °R - -
d2 P

v = 1.31 QT rn/s mm bar A Nm /hr

3
- - °K - -
d2 P

v = 0.547 WT ft/s inches lbf/in A

2
- lb/lb mol - °R lb/hr -
d2 PM

v = 29.5 WT rn/s mm barA - kg/kg mol - °K kg/hr -

d2 PM

TABLE 32.2. Recommended Maximum Velocities for Gas/Vapour

Valve Valve Trim Maximum Inlet Maximum Outlet Max. Outlet Mach no. for
Valve Size
Type Rating Style Velocity Velocity Required Noise Level
in mm ft/s rn/s ft/s rn/s >95 dBA <95 dBA <85 dBA
0.5-2 15-50 340 104
Up to and 3-6 80-150 295 90
including Contoured 8-14 200-350 265 81
Series ANSI 600 16-18 400-450 190 58
10/20 20 500 150 46 830 253 0.65 0.5 0.3
24 600 115 35
1-12 25-300
Ported +
All 14-20 350-500 475 144
HF family
24 600
1-12 25-300
Ported +
Series 12 All 14-20 350-500 475 144 830 253 0.65 0.5 0.3
HF family
24 600 (1150) (350) (0.9) (0.7) (0.4)
Up to and 1-2 25-50 226 78
Series
including ‘V’ Port 3-6 80-150 220 67 640 195 0.65 0.5 0.3
30/31
ANSI 600 8-12 200-300 200 61
Up to and 4-12 100-300 200 61
Series
including Vane 14-24 350-600 100 30 350 107 0.65 0.5 0.3
61/62
ANSI 300 >24 >600 80 24
Series Refer to Series 10
All Contoured All sizes Sonic 0.65 0.5 0.3
70/71 velocity limits
Series 1-12 25-300
Ported +
70/71 All 14-20 350-500 475 144 Sonic 0.65 0.5 0.3
HF family
72/73 24 600 (0.9) (0.7) (0.4)

TS32.3 PAGE 20
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Table 32.3 Sonic Velocity Equations

Velocity Internal Pressure Volume Molecular Specific Temp. Mass Specific

Expression for
valve flowrate weight gravity flowrate volume
Mean velocity
diameter
v d P Q M G T W u

a = 75.5 Pν ft/s -
2
lbf/in A - - - - -
3
ft /lb

a = 350 Pν rn/s - barA - - - - -

3
m /kg

T
a = 46 ft/s - - - - Non-dim °R - -
G
T
a = 18.8 rn/s - - - - Non-dim °K - -
G

TS33.1 PAGE 21

TS33 Gas/Vapour Noise Prediction
Aerodynamic Noise Generation
Aerodynamic noise produced as a by product of flow
through control valves is considered to be the most
troublesome in terms of the environment. It is attributed
to the presence of high turbulence levels and shock
waves in the valve, downstream of the flow restriction.
These high levels of turbulence are a result of
dissipating high levels of energy by throttling the flow.
The turbulence energy is converted by a non-linear
process into internal and acoustic energy, and
subsequently the acoustic energy is propagated
downstream with a small percentage being transmitted
through the pipewall and into the surroundings. Valve
noise usually seems to emanate from a point in the
downstream pipework approximately 1 to 2 pipe
diameters from the exit of the valve. This distance is
related to the pipework configuration and outlet flow
velocity.
Prediction of Aerodynamic Noise
The processes involved in both the generation of the
noise and the propagation of the noise in the down-
stream pipework and the subsequent transmission
through the pipewall are all extremely complicated; all
being inter related, see Figure 33.1. The likelihood of a
physical description that adequately describes these
processes is very remote. However, several studies
have been made into simplified systems, such as free
jets, which have helped in the understanding S of some
of the basic principles behind turbulence/shock gener-
ated noise. In the most significant contribution, Light-hill
established the foundation for subsequent studies into
noise generation by turbulent free jets. Further
observations by Powell, who examined the choked flow
problem (shock noise) have also led to a greater
understanding of the physical processes.
However, even from this theoretical basis, the
development of any aerodynamic noise generation
prediction technique must rely heavily on experimental
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data collected from control valve flows. Intro! have
developed their low noise valve design and prediction
techniques from such data, along with field test data. In
addition, Introl have been engaged with an
experimental research program into the mechanisms of
noise generation in control valves.
Pipework Generated Noise
Valve outlet/pipe generated noise can produce yet
another noise problem. Should outlet velocities tend
towards sonic velocity, then the pipe generated noise
can become a serious problem. Such conditions can
lead to shock wave formation leading to vibration of the
downstream pipework creating objectionable noise as a
by-product. It should be noted that even before sonic
velocity is reached that high valve outlet velocities will
contribute to the overall sound pressure level. In
general if low noise levels are to be achieved then the
valve outlet velocity should not exceed 0.3 Mach.
Noise Due To Vibration
High fluid velocities and shock wave formation can lead
to high dynamic forces acting on the valve trim. These
forces can result in vibration of the valve plug, leading
to objectionable discrete noise levels and also
premature failure of the valve plug assembly. For this
reason recommended velocity levels both at the inlet
and outlet of the valve should be considered when
selecting an appropriate valve size.
Poor Pipework Configuration
A major contribution to high external noise levels is poor
pipework configuration or pipework support. Even on
the most innocuous duty high noise levels can be
produced when care has not been taken with the piping
layout. Elbows and T-junctions should be a minimum of
5 pipe diameters and preferably 10 pipe diameters
downstream of the valve outlet. Further elbows
immediately before the valve can in cases lead to
vibration/noise problems.
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Methods of Noise Abatement
Valve generated noise can be reduced by the applica-
tion of lagging or the fitting of in-line silencers. However,
a better and more economical solution is to reduce the
production of this type of noise at source, by using a
valve fitted with a specially designed low noise trim.
This is referred to as source treatment.
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changes in direction of individual jets and variations in
flow area to accommodate for the expansion of the
fluid. These trims produce high frictional/impingement
losses, reduce the trim outlet flow velocity and by the
very fact of splitting the flow, produce a much lower
acoustic efficiency. Additionally, at high pressure ratios,
coherent shock wave formations are controlled by
impinging jets onto the outer sleeves. Such trim
designs are capable of producing attenuation levels of
greater than 30 dB.

Source Treatment
The range of low noise trim design are detailed below in
The most effective method of noise reduction is to
Table 33.1.
prevent its generation at source by careful design of the
valve flow paths. High velocities, sudden expansion and
changes of direction of the main flow stream should be Table 33.1 Low Noise Trim
avoided. Introl’s range of low noise valve trims have
Trim Reference Number of Pressure
been designed with this in mind. The ‘low noise’ trim
Drop Stages
consists of one or more concentric sleeves, see Figures
33.2 and 33.3, depending on the severity of the service. HF One
These sleeves incorporate a series of holes selected to HFD, XHFD Two
give optimum attenuation performance. HFT, XHFT Three
HFQ1, XHFQ1 Three
HFQ2, XHFQ2 Five
Thus, each successive sleeve splits the flow into many
small radial jets, while the combined influence of
multiple sleeve arrangements produces sudden

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Downstream Attenuators from the source propagating down the pipe and
causing a noise problem further downstream where the
Another means of reducing the external noise level is to
piping is not lagged or where the flow exhausts to
reduce the pressure drop across the valve. This can be
atmosphere.
achieved by introducing additional pressure drop
stages (baffles) either within the valve body or in the
downstream pipework. Baffles are used when the Thermal Insulation
pressure ratios are too high for the valve to handle and
In many cases, pipework upstream/downstream of the
/ or when the valve outlet velocity is above the
valve will be lagged to reduce thermal losses. The
recommended level. These devices - being non-
effect of thermal lagging on the sound pressure level
variable in orifice area - are flow rate dependant and
can lead to attenuation figures of 10-12 dB,
are thus only effective over a relatively small portion of
approximately 3-4 dBA attenuation per inch of
the valve rangeability. They are usually most effective
insulation thickness.
at flows varying between 70 % and 100% of maximum.

As with acoustic installation, noise will emanate from

Line Treatment downstream pipework which is unlagged.
Silencers
An alternative means of reducing the noise is by line
treatment. This will normally involve the use of
silencers. These units are designed to absorb the
sound energy so that it does not propagate
downstream of the valve. The internal construction of
these devices vary with the service conditions, but
generally the design consists of a diffuser section
followed by perforated tubes. These tubes are
surrounded by acoustically absorbent material (which is
prevented from penetrating the tubes by shields of fine
gauze).The mean fluid velocity in the silencer should be
limited to 120 ft/sec,(36m/sec).

Silencers can reduce the sound pressure level by as

much as 50 dBA, however they are an added expense
and complication to the plant engineer.

Pipe Wall
Attenuation due to the schedule of the pipe wall can be
determined using the noise prediction technique, for
example changing the pipe schedule from S40 to S120
can reduce the noise level by as much as 8dB.

Acoustical Insulation

Aerodynamic sound developed in the downstream

pipework can only be treated by means external to the
valve. The use of lagging can give 8 - 10 dBA noise
reduction per inch, up to a maximum of 20 to 25 dBA.
However, this treatment does not prevent sound waves

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Noise Prediction Technique for Gas/Vapour Flows The information required is:

The formula for predicting valve noise, presented Process Data/CalculatedValve/Pipe Details
below, may be used for valves of differing designs, Inlet pressure Valve style
provided that the appropriate correction factors are Outlet pressure Trim style
used. It is applicable to the flow of compressible fluids Operating Cv Temperature
for normal and choked flow conditions. Size of pipework Schedule of pipe
Molecular weight Design Cv
This formula gives the SPL in dB(A) at a listening point
1m along the pipework and at a distance of 1m from
Procedure
the pipe surface. The formula assumes spherical free
field radiation with a tolerance band of +0/-5 dBA. 1. Calculate the operating Cv (refer to section
TS 31.2).
The overall predicted SPL is built up from a number of
2. Calculate the valve pressure ratio P1/P2.
contributory effects, these can be simply described as
3. Read the values of X, Y and Z from Figures
X log P1 Efficiency by which power dissipated 33.4,33.5 and 33.6 respectively.
across the valve is converted into
4. For all trim designs read the trim attenuation
acoustic energy.
factor from Figures 33.7 a—e.
Y log P1/P2 Contribution to SPL of noise generated
5. Refer to Figure 33.8 for the maximum
by shock wave/turbulance interaction.
recommended pressure ratio for the trim style
Z log Cv Bulk flow contribution selected.

8.5 log Mw Correction for acoustic velocity 6. Read the valve pressure ratio attenuation
correction factor, E, from Figure 33.9 a).
N Transmission loss Frequency
Correction Factor. 7. Determine the valve opening attenuation
correction factor, D, from Figure 33.9 b).
Hg Valve trim design factor, accounts for
attenuation produced by different trim 8. Read the temperature attenuation factor from
styles. Figure 33.10.

E Valve Opening Attenuation Correction 9. Read the reduced lift correction factor from
Factor. Figure 33.11.

AT Temperature attenuation 10. Determine the transmission loss frequency

T Reduced lift Correction Factor
The following procedure details the necessary steps to
perform the sound pressure level prediction for gas/
vapour flows for control valves only.
correction factor from Figure 33.12.
11. For pipe size and pipe schedule determine
the pipe attenuation Ap from Table 33.2.
12. Substitute the values into the SPL formula
below to calculate the predicted SPL in dBA.

IMPERIAL 33.01
P1
SPL = XLOGP1 + YLOG + ZLOGCv + 41.5 + 8.5LOGM W − ( H g × E × D ) − T − AP N − AT
P2
IMPERIAL 33 01
P1
SPL = X ( LOGP1 + 1.16) + YLOG + ZLOGCv + 41.5 + 8.5LOGM W − ( H g × E × D ) − T − AP N − AT
P2

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Table 33.2 Outlet Pipe Attenuation Factor Ap dB

Nominal Pipe schedule
pipe
size 5 10 20 30 40 80 120 160 STD XS XXS
inches
1 39 42.5 44 44 49 53.5 56 58.5 49 53.5 62.5
1.5 36 40 42 42 46.5 51 53.5 57.5 46.5 51 61
2 34 37 40 40 45 48 53 56.5 45 48 60
3 32 35 39 39 44.5 46.5 52 55.5 44.5 46.5 59.5
4 30 33 38 38 43 46 51.5 54.5 43 46 59
6 29 31 36 36 41 45.5 50 54 41 45.5 57
8 28 30 31.5 34.5 39 44 48.5 53 39 44 55
10 28 30 31 34 38.5 44 48 52.5 38.5 41 52
12 28 29 30.5 33.5 38 43.5 47.5 52 35.5 38.5 50
14 27.5 28.5 30 33.5 37 43 47 51.5 33.5 37 48
16 27 28 29 33 36 42.5 46.5 51 33 36 37
18 25 26 28.5 32 35 42 46 50.5 31 33.5 44
20 25 26 28 32 35 41.5 45.5 50 30 32 42
24 24 25 27 31 34 40.5 44.5 49 28.5 31 41
30 24 25 26 30 33 39.5 43.5 48 27 30 40

Table 33.3 Pipe Schedules Against Pipe Wall Thickness

Nominal Outside Wall Thickness (inches)
Pipe Diameter Sch Sch Sch Stand Sch4 Sch Sch Sch Sch Sch Sch Sch XX
Size inches 10 20 30 ard 0 60 Str. 80 100 120 140 160 Str.
1 1.315 .133 .133 .179 .179 .250 .358
11/2 1.900 .145 .145 .200 .200 .281 .400
2 2.375 .154 .154 .218 .218 .344 .436
3 3.500 .216 .216 .300 .300 .438 .600
4 4.500 .237 .237 .337 .337 .438 .531 .674
6 6.625 .280 .280 .432 .432 .562 .719 .864
8 8.625 .250 .277 .322 .322 .406 .500 .500 .594 .719 .812 .906 .875
10 10.750 .250 .307 .365 .365 .500 .500 .594 .7129 .844 1.000 1.125 1.000
12 12.750 .250 .330 .375 .406 .562 .500 .688 .844 1.000 1.125 1.312 1.000
14 14.000 .250 .312 .375 .375 .438 .594 .500 .750 .938 1.094 1.250 1.406
16 16.000 .250 .312 .375 .375 .500 .656 .500 .844 1.031 1.219 1.438 1.594
18 18.000 .250 .312 .438 .375 .562 .750 .500 .938 1.156 1.375 1.562 1.781
20 20.000 .250 .375 .500 .375 .594 .812 .500 1.031 1.281 1.500 1.750 1.969
22 22.000 .250 .375 .500 .375 .875 .500 1.125 1.375 1.625 1.875 2.125
24 24.000 .250 .375 .562 .375 .688 .969 .500 1.219 1.531 1.812 2.062 2.344
26 26.000 .312 .500 .375 .500
28 28.000 .312 .500 .625 .375 .500
30 30.000 .312 .500 .625 .375 .500
32 32.000 .312 .500 .625 .375 .688 .500
34 34.000 .312 .500 .625 .375 .688 .500
36 36.000 .312 .500 .625 .375 .750 .500

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Gas/Vapour Noise Level Prediction

Technique For In-Line Attenuators

When performing calculations to determine the noise

levels produced by valves with in-line attenuators, it is
necessary to consider each pressure let down stage
separately. It is therefore necessary to determine the
pressure drop and Cv of each let down component. A
procedure for determining the pressure drop across
these units (“baffles”) has been developed by Intro!,
however, the procedure is beyond the scope of simple
calculations. Such calculations are performed using a
computer program.

Having established these values, the procedure

discussed for control valve noise prediction can be
repeated, by using the baffle P11P2, and Cv The baffle
should be treated as an HF trim when determining the
attenuation factor Hg and the reduced lift correction
factor T, set to zero.

Note: in the calculation of the individual element SPL

the outlet pipe size and pipe schedule should be used
to determine the pipe attenuation factor, Ap

In order to determine the overall noise level the effect of

attenuation produced by downstream baffles must be
accounted for. This can be achieved by using the
following rules.

SPLvalve = SPLvalve − Numberofbaffles × 3

SPLBaffle = SPLBaffle − ( Numberofbaffle − 1) × 3

Where i is the baffle position reference number, i.e. for i

= 1 baffle location is furthest downstream, i = 2 is
upstream of baffle number 1, etc.

When adding together noise levels predicted for the

individual elements, the following equation should be
used.

 SPLvalve SPLBaffle1 SPLBaffle2 SPLBaffle3 

SPL = 10 LOG  Anti log + Anti log + Anti log + Anti log + etc 
 10 10 10 10 

Note: All logarithms are to the Base 10.

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Frequency Spectrum of Aerodynamic Factor n given in Table 33.4.

Noise
The frequency spectrum of noise generated by
aerodynamic effects can be described as being broad
band. There is no simple method of accurately
calculating the contributions of various frequency bands
to the overall sound level for valves controlling
compressible fluids.

Figures 33.15 and 33.16 present frequency

distributions of the external noise field for both a
contoured design and an HF design. These were fitted
in the same pipework configuration and were measured
for similar operating conditions. The main difference is
the overall drop in each of the octave bands, and the
increase in peak frequency from 2 kHz for the
contoured design to 4 kHz for the HF design. Low noise
trim designs besides utilising other noise reducing
methods raise the peak frequency considerably and
these higher frequencies suffer greater transmission
loss through the pipe wall. The increase in transmission
loss with frequency can be expressed as:

TL = 20 LOG ( f ) − 33
Thus, the dominant frequency for compressible fluids is
usually between 1 kHz and 8 kHz. If the peak
frequency is below 500 Hz and the vibrations are of an
appreciable magnitude this would indicate a vibration
problem as opposed to aerodynamic noise generation.
The peak frequency is dependant upon a number of
factors, these are:

1. P1/P2
2. Trim style
3. Hole size
4. M2, Modified Mach Number
5. Downstream pipe diameter

An approximate calculation of the peak frequency can

be made by using the following expression.

1,300 × M × Ns × n
f =
0.015 Cv C f
The calculation depends on the value of the Strouhal
number, which is a function of fluid velocity and the trim
characteristic dimension. The trim Strouhal number can
be evaluated from Figure 33.14 and the valve Strouhal
number is obtained by multiplying the trim Strouhal
number by the Valve Type Correction

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