Signature
Series
Performance Testing
Here's an easier way to
track the operating health of your control valve: Use Signature Series factory testing as
the starting point in your control valve maintenance program.
Diagnostic
Capability
AMS ValveLink®
Software
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We use AMS ValveLink
Software and the diagnostic capability of FIELDVUE®
instruments to thoroughly test
each FIELDVUE instrument-equipped control valve in the factory as part of its final
assembly checkout. Why? To create a benchmark of a properly assembled valve's
performance just prior to shipment.
Data Comparison
If your control valve is
equipped with a FIELDVUE instrument that includes diagnostic capability, after the valve
has been in service you can use AMS ValveLink Software to run the same
tests that were originally run at the factory. Then, by importing
Signature Series data into the AMS ValveLink Software, you can compare
"as-shipped" performance with the valve's current operating condition.
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Operating Signature
In this
test, as actuator
pressure increases, the valve travels to the open position, represented by the red
line. As the actuator pressure decreases, the valve closes, represented by the blue
line. This "signature" reveals critical performance characteristics such
as seat load, actuator bench set, spring rate, and valve friction. Tests run at
different points in the life of the control valve can be overlaid on each other.
Differences found between the two plots will help you identify control valve problems or
trends that may be affecting your process.
Dynamic Error Band
In this test we are looking
at the dynamic response of the complete control valve assembly (valve, actuator, digital
valve controller). As the input current increases, the valve opens, represented by
the red line. As the input current decreases, the valve closes, represented by the
blue line. Dynamic error and dynamic linearity are revealed through software
analysis of the data.
Step Response
In this test, four (4)
steps of 10% (of the total valve travel) were performed. The number of steps and
the step size are configurable throughout the range of travel. The blue line
represents the actual step input and the red line represents the travel response of the
valve. This type of test will reveal overdamping, underdamping, stroking speed, and
the control valve response to small steps.
The
Factory Signature Series Lineup
Three levels of Signature
Series tests are available, with each level providing valuable diagnostic data. When
you order a Signature Series test, you receive complete documentation both as paper copy
and on a 3-1/2 inch diskette.
Signature
Series 1
Signature Series 1 results
may be ordered at any time prior to or following the manufacture and assembly of the
valve. Contact your Emerson Process Management sales office or sales
representative to obtain Signature
Series 1 data. Within the Signature Series 1 test level, you receive:
- Valve Signature Curve (as recorded from -5 to 105% input)
- Dynamic Error Band Curve (as recorded from -5 to 105% input)
- Valve Specification Details
- Device Display
- Monitor Results (taken at 12 mA, 50% input)
- Alert Display
- Configuration Data
Signature Series 2
Series 2 testing is performed
only when specified as part of the original valve order. Therefore if Series 2
testing was not specified on the original order, test results are not available following
shipment of the valve from the Fisher manufacturing plant. In addition to Signature
Series 1 information, you receive:
- Step Response Curve (0 to 100% change in 25% steps over 10-second collection time)
- Drive Signal (as recorded
from -5 to 105% input)
Signature
Series 3
Series 3 testing provides user
specified Series 1 and 2 tests and allows any change in end points or scan times.
This capability lets you tailor the testing to your specific requirements or process
needs.
Take
Advantage of the Signature Series
You can begin to take
advantage of the Signature Series simply by contacting your Emerson
Process Management sales office or sales
representative. Remember that
for new valves yet to be manufactured, you can specify any of the Series testing levels.
If your control valve is already in service, you can still improve your valve
maintenance picture by utilizing AMS ValveLink Software. Regardless of your control valve situation,
Emerson Process Management
can provide you with the diagnostic data you need to keep your valves operating at top
performance! |
