New Zahroof unloader valve for reciprocating compressors
August 19, 2016
Zahroof Valves Inc. (ZVI), established with a focus on improving the performance of reciprocating compressors through the introduction of its innovative compressor valve and 10-year warranty, recently announced the launch of its newest product: the ZVI unloader valve.
The ZVI unloader valve is a patent-pending, piston-style unloader, designed to greatly improve reliability over traditional finger-style unloaders. It features a much lower added clearance volume compared to plug-style unloaders.
Setting the ZVI unloader valve apart is the ability to service it in the field without any additional machining. It is a more reliable unloader, as there are no fingers acting against a dynamic valve element. Unlike a plug-type unloader, there is not a large increase in clearance volume in the cylinder that can detrimentally affect the compressor throughout. The flow through the unloader is better than in the case of plate or channel valves, improving unloaded power, as well as eliminating drag forces and the aerodynamic flutter of valve elements. The new unloaders do not have the misalignment / assembly issues of plug-style unloaders. The actuation force required for the ZVI unloader valve is much less than that required for a plate-, channel- or plug-style unloader.
The ZVI unloader valve can be used in all brands of compressors, at any speed, for both lubricated and non-lubricated cylinders. It can be used with virtually any gas where the maximum differential pressure across the unloader is up to1500 psi.
UloaderModule
“The ZVI unloader valve is an important advancement in a compressor industry where breakthroughs are few and far between,” said Zahroof Mohamed, President of Zahroof Valves. “The flexibility in the design makes this technology applicable to users who are planning on an upgrade to an existing unloader system, adding a complete unloader system to a unit, or to the OEM compressor manufacturer who is looking for a reliable cylinder unloading system.”
“The design of the unloader system for a specific application is backed by analysis and simulation using ZVI’s Dynamic Compressor Simulation program. In an economy where it is important to reduce operational costs, the ZVI unloader does so by reducing downtime, reducing maintenance costs and improving efficiency.”