Drax upgrades valve analysis
21 Sep 2006
Drax Power is optimising the operation of its control valve set-up through the implementation of a major diagnostics programme at its 4,000MW plant near Selby — Europe's largest coal-fired power station. The power generator has engaged Severn Unival — a control valve after-market services company — as consultant for the selection of smart positioners and the implemention of a predictive maintenance strategy.
Drax instrument engineer Rob Wilson (above) said the valve footprint and data analyses have enabled the power company to focus on problem valves and direct the resource to where it is required. "It has been a great investment and the move toward predictive maintenance is expected to provide a good return."
Severn Unival helps customers to utilise the full diagnostic capabilities of modern control valve positioners, said Jonathan Jones, general manager of the firm's asset optimisation team.
Where customers do not have diagnostic positioners, the company offers a stand-alone/portable package to analyse non-smart positioners, said Jones. "This enables the customer to benefit from the predictive maintenance techniques inherent in smart positioners without the capital expenditure required to upgrade the plant."
