A High Pressure Control Valve is a versatile solution that features field-reversible topworks for easy field conversions.
Why Reverse the High Pressure Control Valve?
Do you need to reverse the function from fail-open to fail-close for a different application?
For example, maybe you have been using a the valve as a suction controller on the inlet of a compressor. In this case you had it set to fail-open.
Now you want to use it for back pressure service, to hold pressure on a three-phase separator—in which case you would want the valve set up to fail-open.
Should Your Valve Fail Open or Close?
In this 3-minute video, Jason shows you how to convert the topworks on a Kimray High Pressure Control valve from fail-close to fail-open.
How to Reverse the High Pressure Control Valve fail position
- Remove the upper adjusting screw with an adjustable wrench.
- Remove the bonnet bolts with a 9/16" and 11/16" wrench.
- Remove the bonnet, upper spring plate, spring, and lower spring plate.
- Place a 3/8" wrench on the flats of the upper stem to stop it from rotating as you loosen the diaphragm plate by hand.
- Next, lift up the diaphragm and diaphragm plate to get the lower stem in the correct position.
- Remove the coupling block with a 7/16" socket wrench.
- Lift up on the diaphragm and diaphragm plate to remove the upper stem. Moving the diaphragm plate back and forth some will help to not shear the O-ring in the lower adjusting screw when pulling out the stem.
- Use a 3/8" wrench to remove the stem from the pivot sleeve.
- Then, install the stem into the opposite side of the pivot sleeve.
- Remove the pivot from the upper adjusting screw and install it on the lower adjusting screw in the valve, beveled side facing up. (Note: sometimes the pivot will have come off the adjusting screw and be stuck to the upper spring plate instead)
- On top of the pivot, install the lower spring plate, spring, and upper spring plate.
- To prevent sheering the O-ring, apply grease to the stem.
- Replace the diaphragm assembly by sliding the stem through the spring plates, spring and into the lower adjusting screw.
- Next, install the coupling block with both flat surfaces facing up. Also change the indicator plate from pressure open to pressure closed.
- Align the diaphragm holes with the bolt holes. Also align the pressure port on the bonnet with the breather plug hole on the bottom. Then reinstall the bonnet, bonnet bolts and lifting rings.
- Install the upper adjusting screw.
- Finally, move the breather plug from the top side of the actuator to the bottom side.
That’s how to convert a High Pressure Control Valve from fail-close to fail-open.
Download a printable PDF guide
To speak with an expert about converting your control valve's fail position, contact your local Kimray store or authorized distributor.
