Abstract
Some gate valves are susceptible to pressure locking and thermal binding which prevent the safety function. The safety related gate valves susceptible to pressure locking and thermal binding shall be identified and taken preventive actions to ensure the safety function. The identification of the gate valves susceptible to pressure locking and thermal binding needs the evaluation of system design, valve and piping arrangement, test requirements, and operating conditions. Application of preventive methods should consider the system safety function, applicability, effectiveness, interface with system design, and cost. The selection procedure of valves susceptible to pressure locking and thermal binding can be effectively used in industry including nuclear power plants. In order to prevent the pressure locking, the hole can be drilled through the one disc of upstream side or down stream and the external equalizing line can be installed from bonnet to downstream or upstream. The double disc parallel seat valve type can be used instead of flexible wedge gate valve to prevent the thermal binding. The identification of gate valves susceptible to pressure locking and thermal binding, and preventive actions will meet the regulatory requirements and enhance the availability and safety of plants.