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API 607 vs API 608: Key Differences and Applications

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# API 607 vs API 608: Key Differences and Applications

Introduction

When it comes to industrial valves, standards play a crucial role in ensuring safety, reliability, and performance. Two important standards in the valve industry are API 607 and API 608. While both relate to valve testing and performance, they serve different purposes and apply to different types of valves. Understanding the differences between API 607 and API 608 is essential for engineers, procurement specialists, and maintenance personnel working with industrial valves.

What is API 607?

API 607 is a standard that specifies fire testing requirements for quarter-turn valves and actuators. The full title is “Fire Test for Quarter-turn Valves and Valves Equipped with Nonmetallic Seats.” This standard evaluates the ability of a valve to maintain its structural integrity and sealing capability after exposure to fire.

Key aspects of API 607 include:

  • Testing procedure involving exposure to flames at 1400-1800°F (760-980°C)

  • Evaluation of external leakage and operability after fire exposure

  • Requirements for both soft-seated and metal-seated valves

  • Testing duration of 30 minutes

What is API 608?

API 608 is titled “Metal Ball Valves – Flanged, Threaded, and Welding End.” This standard covers the design, materials, dimensions, testing, and inspection requirements for metal ball valves used in petroleum and natural gas industries.

Key aspects of API 608 include:

  • Design requirements for full-port and reduced-port ball valves

  • Material specifications for bodies, trim, and seals

  • Pressure-temperature ratings

  • Testing requirements including shell tests and seat leakage tests

  • Marking and documentation requirements

Key Differences Between API 607 and API 608

Feature API 607 API 608
Scope Fire testing for quarter-turn valves Design and manufacturing of metal ball valves
Primary Focus Performance under fire conditions General design and performance
Valve Types Applies to various quarter-turn valves Specifically for metal ball valves
Testing Fire resistance testing Pressure testing, leakage testing
Application Safety-critical applications General industrial applications

Applications of API 607 and API 608 Valves

API 607 Applications

API 607 compliant valves are typically used in:

  • Oil refineries

  • Chemical plants

  • Petrochemical facilities

  • Offshore platforms

  • Any application where fire safety is critical

API 608 Applications

API 608 compliant valves are commonly found in: