How it works
Turn any flange pair into a valve
The IK-Group developed and patented AOGV can be used to install a barrier between a flange pair on a system that is in continuous operation.
Why you need it - the $20m value proposition
The patented AOGV Mechanical Isolation Tool solves your problem – simple, safe and smart.
Postponement of planned shutdowns and maintenance increases the risk of unwanted incidents and longer shutdowns in the future. The patented mechanical isolation tool AOGV (Add On Gate Valve) can insert and retrieve an isolation spade on any live flanged connection, allowing you to isolate process segments for inspection and maintenance without a shutdown.
This patented field-proven technology reduces time spent for maintenance and the need for drainage, venting, purging and flushing is significantly reduced. The use of the AOGV technology also allows you to reduce your carbon footprint.
The benefits
Maintenance without cashflow shutdown
For all assets, facility downtime during the execution of site activities should be kept to a minimum, with asset integrity maintained, and any risk mitigated to “as low as reasonably practicable.” Built-in isolation points can require partial facility shutdowns and the ejection and flushing of large inventory volumes. Work scopes can result in significant production loss and personnel are more exposed, the more extensive the activity. By using the AOGV mechanical isolation tool to bring the isolation points closer to the point of interest, the area impacted by the work is reduced and as is the likelihood of large ejection of process inventory or a shutdown.
Typical applications
Positive Isolation
The AOGV provides positive isolation without any physical modifications or lasting impact to the process plant. Once the operation is complete, the flange pair is returned to its original state with a new gasket, bolts, and nuts.
The AOGV is versatile – typical applications include:
- Repair and modifications of parts of process facilities
- Retrospective installation of equipment
- Installation, repair, or replacement of valves
- Emergency plant and piping repairs
FAQs
-
At what temperature and pressure can the AOGV be used?
The temperature range is from - 280°F to + 400°F (-173°C to +200°C). Pressures up to 2500 psi (175 bar).
-
For which sizes of pipes and pressure class combinations can the AOGV be used?
We focus on the ASME class 150 & 300 in sizes from 1” to 24” but have tools that can handle sizes up to 36” ASME and up to class 2500. Please see our tool fleet at AOGV.com for available off-the-shelf sizes and class combinations.
-
How much clearance does the AOGV need either side of the flange to be installed?
As a rule of thumb, for pipes from 1”to 4” the AOGV needs 2” of clearance and from 5” and upwards a 1/2 pipe diameter is needed. This is measured from the bolts and nut side of the flange.
-
How is the AOGV going to seal on the full circumference of the flange and the bolt holes?
The seal is pre-energised, acts as a plug, and seals directly from the circumference surface all the way inside the AOGV. The bolt holes are also plugged with mechanical plugs bolted to the AOGV kit. The seal is typically an elastomer to make sure uneven surfaces can be sealed properly.
-
Can the AOGV be fitted on the flange of a 3-piece valve?
The AOGV can be fitted on most valve types and nozzles including 3piece valves.
-
Does the pipe have to handle the weight of the AOGV?
For some of the smaller sized AOGV’s the pipe can easily handle the weight but common practice is it to suspend the weight of the AOGV in chain hoists attached to a superstructure or scaffolding above the AOGV.
-
What about the condition of my flange?
When the team set up the AOGV, we remove your old gasket at the beginning of the operation and replace it with a new gasket at the end. So far, every operation has been successfully executed with a new gasket installed and system successfully recommissioned and sealed.
-
How do you perform the splitting of the flanges after the AOGV has been installed?
Either the system pressure is used for splitting the flanges or the pipe is gently moved physically e.g. with chain hoists to pull them apart. The stress tolerances are calculated for the displacements, and we analyze where in the plant you’re able to give a little with your pipe to handle the movement. The movement itself is carefully controlled and monitored by gradually releasing the compression exerted from the integrity clamps.
Positive isolation
AOGV is the most secure method for energy isolation and facilitates both spool removal (“air gapping”) as well as blind isolation (spade).
Pressure monitoring
The pressure within the AOGV is monitored and safeguarded throughout the job. Should an unsafe situation arise, work can be stopped at any point.
Reduce risk
Contrary to plugs for temporary isolations, with the AOGV there is no risk of plugs blowing out. In addition, the AOGV has no problems with various materials like for instance conventional freeze plugs can have with liquid nitrogen.
Track record
The AOGV has been successfully used in the field in sizes 1” up to 24” and on pressurized hydrocarbon systems up to 2,175 psi. Workshop testing has verified operation at temperature ranges from -261 F to +392 F.
Contact us
Kenneth Låtveit
Business Development and Sales Manager
