Metso recently announced the launch of the HART version of its Neles ValvGuard VG9000 safety valve controller. Neles ValvGuard VG9000 is a ‘new generation’ safety-valve controller and automatic partial-stroke testing (PST) device for both emergency shutdown (ESD) and emergency venting valves (ESV). It combines new features and capabilities with all the benefits of the first-generation Neles ValvGuard VG800 taking automatic partial-stroke testing to a completely new level. TÜV Rheinland has certified VG9000 as compliant with IEC61508, up to SIL3.
Highly cost-efficient
Plant safety targets can be reached more economically with the Neles ValvGuard VG9000 than with traditional solutions. Its extensive safety-valve-testing capabilities include partial-stroke testing (PST), internal pneumatics testing and emergency trip testing. Safety-valve condition can be constantly monitored using the diagnostics data gained from the tests the controller performs. In addition, the VG9000 is able to collect valve diagnostics during trip situations.
There is no need to mount extra instrumentation and parallel limit-switches, because the VG9000 has market-leading pneumatics capacity and optional internal limit switches. The reduced number of safety-related components also increases plant safety while simultaneously creating cost savings. The VG9000, now available in both HART and FOUNDATION Fieldbus versions, can be used with both single- and double-acting actuators. The new HART version supports also both safety AO’s and DO’s.
Enables alarm management and predictive maintenance
The Neles ValvGuard VG9000 provides real-time alarm management at no extra cost. The availability of safety valves is maximized because emergency valve-related on-line diagnostics are integrated into device functionality.
The diagnostics information collected by VG9000 is presented in an easily understandable form via a graphical FDT/DTM interface, such as Neles FieldCare. The usability of VG9000’s interface is also taken to a new level when compared to first-generation partial-stroke testing devices. Because the diagnostics information enables predictive maintenance, potential valve failures can be detected and corrected before they can have any impact on the process or plant safety.