Creating a zero-emission control valve to support industry net zero goals

The purpose of this Innovate UK – Accelerated Knowledge Transfer (AKT) project was to develop a zero-emission control valve to address the environmental shortcomings of existing valve systems. Current control valves used in oil, gas, and hydrogen applications often contribute to greenhouse gas emissions through leaks, inefficiencies, or energy-intensive operations. The new valve is designed to provide a more sustainable alternative, enabling operators in these sectors to significantly reduce emissions and work toward achieving net-zero targets.

This innovation would address more stringent environmental regulations and market demand for sustainable solutions, and help to position Kent Introl as a leader in developing environmentally responsible industrial systems.

The zero-emission valve would also be designed to maintain optimal performance. Through rigorous design and testing, the project seeks to advance fluid control technology while addressing urgent global demands for sustainable industrial practices.

The AKT partnership worked collaboratively to develop the zero-emission valve system.

The team conducted extensive research and development, focusing on innovative design solutions that addressed the need for environmental sustainability. This included computational simulations such as finite element analysis and computational fluid dynamics to validate the design’s performance and functionality.

Key technical challenges, including the feasibility of the valve’s bonnet and internal operating mechanisms, were addressed through iterative design modifications. The partnership also tackled position-sensing complexities, ensuring the valve could operate efficiently with precise control. The team carried out prototyping and testing phases to refine the valve’s design and confirm its emission-reducing capabilities.

Throughout the project, the AKT team worked closely with industry experts to ensure compliance with regulatory standards, and to anticipate market demands for sustainable solutions. The project also explored potential intellectual property opportunities, positioning the valve as a unique and innovative product in the market.

By taking advantage of AKT’s resources, expertise, and collaborative approach, the partnership successfully advanced the development of the zero-emission valve, meeting the project’s objectives and setting the stage for further commercialisation and implementation in key industries.

The AKT partnership significantly advanced the development of the zero-emission valve system. Key results included the successful creation of a functional prototype, which underwent rigorous testing to assess its performance, durability, and compliance with environmental regulations.

Dr Shirsendu Sikdar, Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Huddersfield, led the project, driving a comprehensive series of simulations to validate the valve design’s effectiveness, optimise its mechanisms, and ensure it met the agreed performance standards. Currently, the valve technology is in the process of being tested and refined, with the goal of achieving market readiness in the near future. This technology has the potential to significantly reduce the environmental impact of the oil, gas, and hydrogen sectors.

The AKT partnership fostered strong collaboration among industry experts, researchers, and engineers. This synergy not only facilitated knowledge sharing but also ensured that the project remained focused on meeting both environmental and market demands.

As a direct result of the project activities, a strategic roadmap was established to guide the further development and potential commercialisation of the zero-emission valve. This roadmap outlines the next steps, including future collaboration on long-term joint research projects such as a full Knowledge Transfer Partnership. Such activity would support product enhancement, comprehensive testing, and eventual market introduction, ensuring sustained progress and alignment with sustainability goals.