@GCA: ACI Unveils Dynamic Variable Orifice

ACI Services has released its dynamic variable orifice (DVO), designed to control line pressure pulsations in reciprocating compressor systems, flow metering stations and other systems that require reduced pressure waves via damping. The DVO was launched at the Gas Compressor Association (GCA) Conference and Expo in Galveston, Texas.

Typically, operators use orifice plates to control pipe pulsations, but these devices are fixed and do not allow room for flexibility, said Roy Houston, ACI Services’ eastern region territory manager. With the DVO, operators can adjust the amount of restriction within the pipe by rotating the device’s adjustment shaft. The shaft rotates a small bevel gear, which engages a segment of the DVO’s ring gear. This action opens and closes small windows within the DVO to control flow and pulsations within the pipe.

The DVO comes in two embodiments – flat plate and conical. It features a standard maximum allowable working pressure (MAWP) of 1500 psi (103.4 bar) and requires installation between a pair of standard ANSI flanges.

“The DVO become a good weapon in your arsenal,” Houston said. “It provides a much broader operating range than with fixed orifices. Pressure drops and horsepower losses can be optimized or minimized as operating conditions change.”