ASTM International

Standard Test Method for Performance Testing of Excess Flow Valves
 N F1802

Annotation

This test method covers a standardized method to determine the performance of excess flow valves (EFVs) designed to limit flow or stop flow in thermoplastic natural gas service lines.2

All tests are intended to be performed using air as the test fluid. Unless otherwise stated, all flow rates are reported in standard cubic feet per hour of 0.6 relative density natural gas.

The test method recognizes two types of EFV. One type, an excess flow valve-bypass (EFVB), allows a small amount of gas to bleed through (bypass) after it has tripped, usually as a means of automatically resetting the device. The second type, an excess flow valve-non bypass (EFVNB), is intended to trip shut forming an essentially gas tight seal.

The performance characteristics covered in this test method include flow at trip point, pressure drop across the EFV, bypass flow rate of the EFVB or leak rate through the EFVNB after trip, and verification that the EFV can be reset.

Gas distribution systems may contain condensates and particulates such as organic matter, sand, dirt, and iron compounds. Field experience has shown that the operating characteristics of some EFVs may be affected by accumulations of these materials. The tests of Section 11 were developed to provide a simple, inexpensive, reproducible test that quantifies the effect, if any, of a uniform coating of kerosene and of kerosene contaminated with a specified amount of ferric oxide powder on an EFV’s operating characteristics.

Excess flow valves covered by this test method will normally have the following characteristics: a pressure rating of up to 125 psig (0.86 MPa); a trip flow of between 200 and 2500 ft3/h (5.66 and 70.8 m3/h) at 10 psig (0.07 MPa); a minimum temperature rating of 0°F(–18°C), and a maximum temperature rating of 100°F (38°C).