Selecting a Gas Distribution Management System

Selecting, installing, and the management of an appropriate gas distribution system is critical for the petrochemical industry in Alberta. Petrochem facilities require a gas distribution management system that is designed to fit specific needs based on the chemicals used, the required pressure, and flow of gasses, and the space limitations of the existing layout. Successfully and efficiently getting gasses from the source to the end process is not only about limiting waste and lowering costs but also about making sure end processes can be successfully completed.

Choosing a gas distribution management system involves understanding the subsystems within that gas distribution management system and how those components work with processing needs. Typically, those subsystems are:

• source inlet connection
• primary gas pressure control
• automatic changeover
• point-of-use

We will describe below the importance of the subsystems within a gas distribution management system, their relationship to the processes in use, and the benefits of working with a local Alberta vendor for your gas system needs.

The Role of Subsystems Within a Gas Distribution Management System

A gas distribution management system must adhere to Alberta processing requirements and regulations. To ensure this, each of the four subsystems within the gas distribution system must work in conjunction to fit processing requirements. Let’s take a look at each subsystem and the requirements for efficient operation. 

Source Inlet Connection

The source inlet connection subsystem connects one or more high-pressure fluid supplies to the gas distribution system. This subsystem includes cylinder connections, tubing, hoses, and filters. It may also include vent, purge, and relief functions to ensure gas from the cylinder(s) is safely delivered to the primary gas pressure control or automatic changeover subsystems.

To prevent failure, it is imperative that the tubing of the source inlet works with the requisite pressure standards and be constructed of a material that does not react with the gas being used. The tubing also needs to create a strong seal between components of the gas distribution system and the valves and cylinders being used.

Primary Gas Pressure Control

The primary gas pressure control panel allows operators to monitor gas as it flows through the gas distribution system. Primary gas pressure control panels are extremely important to alert personnel to potential problems in the gas distribution system. Changes to the pressure may indicate a leak or that a contaminant has entered the system. These issues may pose safety hazards to operators and risks of toxins being released into the environment. Gas pressure control panels also utilize pressure regulators to alter the flow and pressure of the gas to fit optimal standards. 

Automatic Changeover  

The automatic changeover manifold allows for seamless switching between gas sources without the need to stop the flow of gas. It is important to consider the overall infrastructure when selecting an automatic changeover manifold as there are several design options. 

Auto changeover manifolds can be autonomous or semi-autonomous.

• The semi-autonomous manifold utilizes pressure differential for the initial switch, but then requires an operator to switch back. 
• The autonomic changeover manifold senses the pressure differential and then automatically switches back and forth. 

The needs of the gas distribution system should be considered when selecting between the different types of changeover manifolds. There are high purity manifolds (which incorporate two diffusion-resistant regulators to allow for the changeover system to be completely isolated); high-flow primary changeover systems (which provide an uninterrupted high flow of gas); electronic changeover systems (which utilize electric sensors to provide a fully automatic changeover when one of the gas cylinders become depleted); and liquid changeover systems (which are used for administering vapourized gas from cryogenic containers).

Point-of-Use

The point-of-use is the last stage of pressure control prior to gas usage. This subsystem utilizes a pressure regulator, gauge, and isolation valve to adjust pressure. When deciding on a point-of-use subsystem, it is important that the gauges and isolation valves are compatible with the requisite pressure, temperature, and chemicals in the system. And, these units are closest to the end user, they need to be intuitive and safe.

Additional Considerations 

Cylinders, valves, and tubing are important to consider to keep gas distribution management systems operating at peak efficiency while minimizing maintenance issues and costs.

• Having high-quality cylinders with the appropriate pressure specifications will help prevent gas leaks. It is also recommended that cylinders use a bypass line to purge chemicals and quick connects to allow for safe disconnecting from the system. 
• The tubing for a gas distribution management system should be composed of materials that do not react or corrode with gasses in the systems. The size and fit of the tubing should also correspond with the ideal pressure and flow of the gas in the system. 
• Valves should be selected based on needs for continuous, semicontinuous, or discrete gas flow. Valves should be constructed of materials that are not corroded or damaged when in contact with the gasses in the system.

Selecting and implementing these components for a gas distribution management system can be tricky. If even one component does not meet processing standards—for aspects such as pressure, temperature, flow rate, and chemicals used in processing—it will result in costly inefficiencies with extra processing gas needing to be purchased, excess fugitive emissions, and additional wear and tear throughout the system. Working with a local Alberta vendor of gas distribution management systems can provide you with the expertise and understanding to get the most out of your gas distribution management system

Partner with Edmonton Valve & Fitting for Your Gas Distribution Management System Needs

Edmonton Valve & Fitting can help Alberta industries with the selection, implementation, and maintenance of a gas distribution management system. Regardless of your processing needs, our team of experts can assist you in making decisions about the subsystems and components necessary for the safe and efficient operation of your gas distribution management system.

Our Field Advisors can evaluate and optimize your existing gas distribution system and recommend quality Swagelok components that can improve safety and efficiency. Or, we can provide design support for a custom gas distribution system from the ground up to optimize your gas handling applications. Our gas distribution system design and fabrication services include standardized, modular systems and industry-leading Swagelok components customized to your specific needs.