Metering and Needle Valves For Our Use

Left C

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Should we start a discussion about needle and metering valves? ... About what to look for, part numbers, Cv, and whatever else pops up.

I've been using Ideal 52-1-12 needle valves. This model of Ideal works very well over a wide range.
Ideal needle valves: http://www.idealvalve.com/

I just picked up an Ideal 54-2-11 stainless steel straight through needle valve. I wonder if it will offer a good flow range. You can compare its specs with the 54-1-11 valve which has a lot of similar specs to the 52-1-12. The differences are the body material and shape.
Ideal 54 series: http://idealvalve.thomasnet.com/vie...ies-forged-stainless-needle-valves?&forward=1
Ideal 52 series: http://idealvalve.thomasnet.com/vie...-series-forged-brass-needle-valves?&forward=1

I've also used the Swagelok "M" series metering valves.The "M" series has been reported only offer control over about a 1/4 turn range. It seems the "S" series Swagelok valves would be a better choice for our use.
Swagelok metering valves - description pdf: http://www.swagelok.com/downloads/webcatalogs/EN/MS-01-142.pdf
"M" series discussion: http://www.barrreport.com/showthread.php/7368-B-4MA-Swagelok-metering-valve-adjustment-questions
Swagelok metering valves - catalog: http://www.swagelok.com/search/find_products_home.aspx?SEARCH=/search/Metering/id-10000276/type-1
 

Oreo

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May 6, 2010
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I would definitely like to see some more discussion on this.

It is my experience that the Swageloc medium flow series is indeed too high a flow range for all but the largest aquariums. It will work for smaller ones but the low-flow range would be much better. I'd like to see some links to those valves for sale though and common prices- retail & ebay.
 
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Left C

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The link at the end of this paragraph shows all the Swagelok " Low-Flow Metering Valves, Cv up to 0.004" shown in their catalog. There are many others that have been manufactured that aren't listed, but they can be made or you will see them for sale. Also, some may have different fittings, different handles, different seals, etc that I didn't list. These are ones with Ethylene Propylene O-Rings, Kalrez O-Rings, Double Pattern Metering Valves, Swagelok VCR Metal Gasket Face Seal Fittings, Adjustable-Torque Slotted Handles, etc: http://www.swagelok.com/search/find...0.004+(1000+psig+[68+bar])/id-10002278/type-1

1/8" Silver-Mist Chrome-Plated Brass
  • List Price $103.43 B-SM2-A: Brass Low-Flow Angle-Pattern Metering Valve, 1/8 in. MNPT
  • List Price $83.54 B-SM2-S2-A: Brass Low-Flow Angle-Pattern Metering Valve, 1/8 in. MNPT x 1/8 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting
  • List Price $75.03 B-SS2: Brass Low-Flow Metering Valve, 1/8 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting
  • List Price $67.76 B-SS2-A: Brass Low-Flow Angle-Pattern Metering Valve, 1/8 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting
  • List Price (ASK FOR QUOTE) B-SS2-A-SL: Brass Low-Flow Angle-Pattern Metering Valve, 1/8 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting, Slotted Handle
  • List Price $110.40 B-SS2-VH: Brass Low-Flow Metering Valve, 1/8 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting, Vernier Handle

1/4" Silver-Mist Chrome-Plated Brass
  • List Price $77.08 B-SS4: Brass Low-Flow Metering Valve, 1/4 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting
  • List Price $66.42 B-SS4-A: Brass Low-Flow Angle-Pattern Metering Valve, 1/4 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting
  • List Price $112.96 B-SS4-VH: Brass Low-Flow Metering Valve, 1/4 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting, Vernier Handle


1/8" 316 Stainless Steel
  • List Price $123.41 SS-SS2: SS Low-Flow Metering Valve, 1/8 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting
  • List Price $111.73 SS-SS2-A: SS Low-Flow Angle-Pattern Metering Valve, 1/8 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting
  • List Price $149.14 SS-SS2-SC11: SS Low-Flow Metering Valve, 1/8 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting, SC-11 Cleaned
  • List Price $148.32 SS-SS2-A-VH: SS Low-Flow Angle-Pattern Metering Valve, 1/8 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting, Vernier Handle
  • List Price $140.94 SS-SS2-VH: SS Low-Flow Metering Valve, 1/8 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting, Vernier Handle
1/4" 316 Stainless Steel
  • List Price $127.10 SS-SS4: SS Low-Flow Metering Valve, 1/4 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting
  • List Price $109.58 SS-SS4-A: SS Low-Flow Angle-Pattern Metering Valve, 1/4 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting
  • List Price $145.76 SS-SS4-A-VH: SS Low-Flow Angle-Pattern Metering Valve, 1/4 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting, Vernier Handle
  • List Price $161.3 4 SS-SS4-SL: SS Low-Flow Metering Valve, 1/4 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting, Slotted Handle
  • List Price $144.63 SS-SS4-VH: SS Low-Flow Metering Valve, 1/4 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting, Vernier Handle

Did you notice that all but two of these have Swagelok tubing fittings? There is one with two 1/8" MNPT fittings. Another has one 1/8" MPT and a 1/8" tubing fitting at the upper end of this angle shaped valve. They are:
  • List Price $103.43 B-SM2-A: Brass Low-Flow Angle-Pattern Metering Valve, 1/8 in. MNPT
  • List Price $83.54 B-SM2-S2-A: Brass Low-Flow Angle-Pattern Metering Valve, 1/8 in. MNPT x 1/8 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting
 
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argnom

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Thanks for the info. Left C. I just realized that I work a few blocks aways from one of their distribution centers. I'll check if they do walk-in sales. I could save on shipping. :p
 

Left C

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argnom;51997 said:
Thanks for the info. Left C. I just realized that I work a few blocks aways from one of their distribution centers. I'll check if they do walk-in sales. I could save on shipping. :p

Are you going to get one of their metering valves?

I'm wondering how well either of the following valves will work.
List Price $103.43 B-SM2-A: Brass Low-Flow Angle-Pattern Metering Valve, 1/8 in. MNPT
List Price $83.54 B-SM2-S2-A: Brass Low-Flow Angle-Pattern Metering Valve, 1/8 in. MNPT x 1/8 in. Swagelok Tube Fitting
 

argnom

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Yep, but I'll wait a couple of months, I just stated a new job and the finances are a little low these days so I have to be carefull... If I can get a better price than retail, I'll let you guys know. I could always pick them up. I'll keep everybody posted.

I really do not know what model I'll get, but I'm certain that somebody over there will know their stuff and be able to tell me what model will work the best for our use.

Cheers!
 

Left C

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Oreo;51958 said:
... I'd like to see some links to those valves for sale though and common prices- retail & ebay.
I added the list prices to the Swagelok metering valves today.
 
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Koen_v_V

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I've just ordered a low flow B-SS6MM (Brass Low-Flow Metering Valve, 6 mm Swagelok Tube Fitting) for my second CO2 output to my second AM1000. Hopefully all parts will fit and nicer flow control is provided. Keep you guys updated.
 

Left C

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A fins' thread that I remember reading a year or two ago is one that is on the list in the thread above. It's: http://fins.actwin.com/aquatic-plants/month.9710/msg00174.html

In this post it says: "... The Nupro valve you have listed is not the smallest one they have available. The one you have listed, they quote as being their "M series" valve and have a max Cv rating of 0.03. This rating is like the equivalent of resistance. Which, according to their data sheet, translates to a flow rate of 1.2 cubic feet per minute when connected to an inlet pressure of 2 bar (35psig). ...

They do have a smaller valve, which is listed as being the "S series". This has a max Cv rating of 0.004, which at the same inlet pressure of 2 bar (35psig), translates to a maximum flow rate of 0.15 cubic feet per minute. This valve has a number of turns till open of 8-12.

The version I bought is (a "S" series) labeled as B-SS4 (The B stands for brass and the 4 stands for 1/4") The 1/8" version is labeled as B-SS2.

The valve comes standard with fine adjustment handle, but the vernier to go with it, adds a -VH to the labeling, so the one I bought is then labeled B-SS4-VH.

The version you refer to is labeled B-4MG, which is a 1/4" fitting version of the "M series", a 1/8" version of the same is labeled B-2MG. Again, adding a -VH turns it into the vernier version.

The valve is fantastic, allowing me total extremely fine control over my CO2 flow rate. I can wind the rate from about 1 bubble every 5 minutes, to about 4-5 bubbles a second, linearly, if the inlet pressure remains constant.

Changing the inlet pressure allows me a greater control range. ..."

It's hard reading, but the author, Marque Crozman, is actually praising the "S" series B-SS4-VH and not the "M" series B-2MG. Many people praised the "S" series. See 3) in the "Aquarium Needle/Metering Valve Recommendations" above.

In some of the other articles in the same thread, some people liked the "M" series and some didn't. See 7) in Other Valves in the thread. This seems to fit with what many of us experienced.
 

Left C

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Parker hr series metering valves

In the link that S&KGray posted, Parker HR series metering valves were mentioned as being very good. I made a simple list of their descriptions and specs found on Parker's site. I noted what I thought might work or not, but I'm not sure. I need everyone's help making this list as accurate as we can make it. If you have any thoughts, please post them. The flow rate section (I guessed here) and the stem seal/packing section (I don't know what seal mediums work with pressurized CO2.) really need some help.



PARKER METERING VALVES (HR SERIES) 4170-HR: http://www.parker.com/portal/site/P...c622110VgnVCM10000032a71dacRCRD&from=&pageno=

The Parker HR Series Metering Valve offers the highest degree of precision metering for moderate pressure applications.

A choice of seven precision ground, tapered flat, non-rotating and non-rising valve stems enable repeatable metering at flow capacities as low as 0.0004 Cv. With up to 15 stem turns to reach the maximum flow capacity of these seven orifice sizes, this valve offers the ultimate in precision flow control. This series also features shut-off capability not found in most metering valves.

These screwed bonnet designs are manufactured from stainless steel or brass forgings and are provided with stem seals below the stem threads to isolate the system media from the thread lubricant.

A choice of knurled plastic knobs, turns counter knobs, and screwdriver slotted stems are available.

The valves can be provided in both inline and angle patterns and can accommodate tubing sizes from 1/16 inch up to 1/4 inch.

A variety of US Customary and SI port connections, including CPI™ and A-LOK® compression, and female and male NPT are available.

SPECIFICATIONS

PRESSURE RATING
250 PSIG (17 BAR) – ONLY CHOICE AVAILABLE

CONFIGURATION
INLINE – OK
ANGLE – OK

FLOW RATE
CV = 0.0004 > VERY GOOD ? NOT SURE ??
CV = 0.0070 > VERY GOOD
CV = 0.0140 > OK
CV = 0.0200 > OK ?
CV = 0.0210 > OK ?
CV = 0.0300 > PROBABLY TOO HIGH ?
CV = 0.0320 > PROBABLY TOO HIGH ?
CV = 0.0470 > TOO HIGH
CV = 0.0490 > TOO HIGH
CV = 0.1180 > TOO HIGH
CV = 0.1550 > TOO HIGH

INLET SIZE
1/8” – USED MOST OFTEN
1/4” – OK

INLET CONNECTION
SINGLE FERRULE COMPRESSION
DOUBLE FERRULE COMPRESSION
MALE GASKET FACE SEAL
FNPT
MNPT

OUTLET SIZE
1/8” – USED MOST OFTEN
1/4” – OK

OUTLET CONNECTION
SINGLE FERRULE COMPRESSION
DOUBLE FERRULE COMPRESSION
MALE GASKET FACE SEAL
FNPT
MNPT

STEM TYPE
0
1
2
3
4
5
6

STEM SEAL/PACKING
ETHYLENE PROPYLENE RUBBER > ?
FLUOROCARBON RUBBER > ?
ETHYLENE PROPYLENE RUBBER > ?
BUNA-N RUBBER > GOOD ?
HIGHLY FLUORINATED FLUOROCARBON RUBBER > ?

BODY MATERIAL
BRASS - OK
STAINLESS STEEL - OK

OPERATED
KNURLED - OK
SLOTTED STEM - OK
TURNS COUNTER - BEST

TEMPERATURE RATING
-25 F TO 200 F (-32 C TO 93 C)
-25 F TO 400 F (-32 C TO 204 C)
-50 F TO 300 F (-47 C TO 149 C) - BEST

ADDITIONAL DETAIL
CLEANED FOR OXYGEN SERVICE – OK, BUT NOT NECESSARY FOR CO2 USE

SYNONYM
METERING VALVE

PRODUCT TYPE
Valve, Process Needle, Metering
 
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Left C

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Swagelok regs - Cv, vave sizing, calcsl - Cv calculator - Swagelok metering valves

I was looking for some added info and I found some new (to me, anyway) goodies ... Swagelok regs! They even have two stage models and high sensitivity models and more. Also, I found some good technical info from Swagelok's site. The metering valve info isn't new, but I included it here.

Swagelok regs: http://www.swagelok.com/downloads/webcatalogs/EN/MS-02-230.PDF

Valve sizing, flow calculation and Cv: http://www.swagelok.com/downloads/webcatalogs/EN/MS-06-84.pdf

Cv calculator: http://www.swagelok.com/tools/CV_Calculator.aspx

Swagelow metering valves: http://www.swagelok.com/downloads/webcatalogs/EN/MS-01-142.pdf
 

Tom Barr

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I really like the Ideal metering valves, they run in the 60$ ranges.
Nice folks, USA made fast response etc.

I made little tick marks like a vernier handle so I have a reference on the turns and can adjust incrementally easily.

Regards,
Tom Barr
 

hbosman

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For the price of the Swagloks, I think I would rather go with an Ideal as well. No need for hose to npt adapters, unless you really want to spend $103.00. For now, the Fabco inline is good enough for me. It does the job for $22.00
 

Tom Barr

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Well, if you can get the right brand/model for the Swagelok and they are on ebay surplus sites etc.............then they can be had for 10-40$ each.
But you have to look for the ones with the MPT/FPT.........

With Ideal, there's no mucking around looking/bidding for all that.


Regards,
Tom Barr