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Type of sample valves

To suit most process conditions and designs, we offer three types of sample valves in many configurations with numerous options:

Three Types of Sampling Valves
Type Description Pros Cons
In-line Sample Valve Fitted directly on the process line or on a bypass. A constant flow through the valve guarantees a directly representative sample.
  • Directly representative sample
  • Liquid/gas flow required (re-circulation loop, process line)
Lateral Sample Valve The valve is fitted on the side or bottom of a reactor or on the side of a larger pipeline.
  • Bypass not required for large pipes
  • Reactor sampling without re-circulation loop
  • Dead space needs to be purged or flushed to guarantee a representative sample.
Top of Reactor Sample System Acts as a re-circulation loop.
  • Works under pressure as well as under vacuum
  • Directly representative sample
  • Max viscosity = 2,000 Cp

The first step in selecting a BIAR Sample Valve is to identify where it will be fitted on the process line. After you make that determination, you can outline technical specifications such as sampling temperature/pressure, size, class and product properties. Those specifications normally correspond to the Piping & Instrumentation Diagram (P&ID).

Today's Sampling Challenges Require Modular Solutions

Whether your application involves inline or reactor sampling, BIAR sampling valves are ideal because they are highly reliable, feature technology that eliminates waste, reduces emissions, and preserves sample integrity.

Our sampling valves can be easily disconnected for maintenance or cleaning and are highly customizable.

To determine the best configuration for your particular sampling system, consider these 10 questions:

  1. Application: where do you need to sample from?

  2. Location: where is the closest spot to the application that requires the least amount of piping modification and is safely accessible for the operator?

  3. Is the sample valve to be installed:
    1. On the side of a reactor or bigger process line?
    2. Directly inline (Process line, recirculation or fast loop)?

  4. If inline, is it a horizontal or vertical pipeline?

  5. What is the pipeline size and AINSI class?

  6. What is the material of construction?

  7. What are the operating and maximum temperatures?

  8. What are the operating and maximum pressures?

  9. How will the sample be collected? In a sample cylinder (aka "sample bomb") or an open-top container such as a bottle?

  10. Is the process atmosphere sensitive?

Inline Valves vs. Reactor Sampling Valves

Name Advantages Disadvantages
Inline Sampling
  • Provides a representative sample every time without the need to purge & flush
  • Process may need to be shut down to perform maintenance if installed on a process line instead of on a fast loop or bypass.
Reactor Sampling (Lateral Valve)
  • Can be used on the side or bottom of a reactor when inline installations are not possible. Hence the name Lateral Valve.
  • Can be used with air or nitrogen to push product in valve inlet back into a tank or process line to ensure the taking of a representative sample without flushing or purging.
  • Needs air or nitrogen to push back dead space and obtain a representative sample.