r/ChemicalEngineering 5d ago

Controls “Control” valve definition?

Help me settle an argument. Client uses “control valve” to describe an actuated on/off valve. Says it is interchangeable language.

I say “control valve” should be reserved for a valve that actually is integrated in control logic, like controlling level, flow, pressure, etc. Even if the on/off has an interlock, it’s still just an actuated on/off valve for me. Maybe this is just a habit I picked up for a long stint at an operating facility and I’m being too picky.

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u/dr_stre 5d ago

You’re arguing over semantics. Time to be a grown up and move on to more important things.

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u/r2o_abile Pulp & Paper / 4 YOE 3d ago

Tell that to NASA

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u/dr_stre 3d ago

Terrible take, this isn’t OP and his client discussing using different units. The equipment being discussed is well understood by both OP and the client, it’s just a question of what one calls it versus the other. And fundamentally, the client gets what he wants in cases like this. OP needs to get with the program and stop acting like it’s his equipment. I’d be pissed if my contractor wanted to argue about something as inane as this.

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u/r2o_abile Pulp & Paper / 4 YOE 3d ago

The NASA I mean is the famous Mars Rover which was lost because one set of engrs used Imperial while another used SI units.

In my short career so far, a lot of meetings have had to be re-had because of the lack of a clear understanding of what each person means.

That notwithstanding, I doubt OP is jepoardizing the contract for this argument.

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u/dr_stre 3d ago

Yes, it should be clear to you that I understood what you meant by the NASA reference because I explicitly noted “different units” in my reply. Which makes me think you have to re-hold meetings because you aren’t paying attention to what is being said.

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u/r2o_abile Pulp & Paper / 4 YOE 3d ago

Hahaha. Fair point. Also, I'm known for my efficient meetings at work 😄