Process Interlocking

The #10 factors that determine a succesful installation of valve interlocks

Process Interlocking

#1: Always be prepared to deal with last minute complications such as

> incorrect measurements > last minute change of valve type or gearbox > change of operating sequence of valves

Process Interlocking

#2: Train a few specialists or hire a specialist service engineer to supervise, who can

> make small adjustments himself locally > make an inventory of required corrective

actions > make an inventory of required materials > communicate with the engineering team of

the interlock manufacturer effectively

Process Interlocking

#3: Train the installation team > basic skills of valve interlock installation > basic understanding of interlock applications

and sequences > on-site trouble shooting of installation issues

Process Interlocking

#4: Avoid damage and missing parts during storage

> Store interlock scopes (lock bodies, mounting sets, fitting materials, hand wheels and levers) together in their supplied boxes

> Keep the boxes closed, to avoid unwanted ‘borrowing’ of handwheels or fitting materials during the storage period

Process Interlocking

#5: Sorting of materials gains time during installation

> Create workplace near areas of installation > Group all materials per area of installation > Break down the scope into areas/units/skids/

systems > Store returned items in the same place

Process Interlocking

#6: Prepare for a safe and efficient installation

> Arrange all documents, including IOM and Lock Order Information Sheet (LOIS)

> Arrange cold work permits and make your task risk analysis

> Check whether the systems in the field are ready for interlock mounting (valves installed, accessible and available, valve types correspond to LOIS?)

Process Interlocking

#7: Install strictly according to the operating logic, or ‘sequence’

> Each interlock is unique, has unique key codes and belongs to a dedicated valve tag

> Misplaced interlocks avoid that a system can be properly operated

> Sequences are found in the LOIS, where each interlock tag is linked to the proper valve tag

Process Interlocking

#8: Use commissioning keys > With the use of commissioning keys, valve

interlocks can be installed before steam blowing and hydrostatic testing

> This increases the timespan in which interlocks can be installed and reduces the risk of critical delays

> No need for master or spare keys during installation and testing

Process Interlocking

#9: Ensure an up-to-date administration > Record the progress of the installation in the

LOIS > Restore uninstalled locks and materials and

register them in the LOIS > Insert the updated LOIS into the MRO

database and share it with your interlock manufacturer for future projects

Process Interlocking

#10: Make sure to check detailed information beforehand

> Check out the Support Blog at the Netherlocks website

> Get your own copy of our white paper on succesfully installing valve interlocks