CCI Atmospheric Resistors Prevent Steam Vent Noise Generation

Cerrey S.A. has recently purchased nine DRAG® atmospheric resistors to prevent steam venting noise from the HP, IP, and LP sections of the three new units at the Bajío Power Plant. These atmospheric resistors prevent the generation of noise in the first place instead of mere muffling after it already exists.

CCI Atmospheric Resistors™ utilize a tortuous flow-path to produce multi-stage pressure reduction and limit kinetic energy at the trim exit, similar to severe-service DRAG® control valves.

The HP atmospheric resistors handle flows as high as 335,000 pounds/hour (152,000 kilograms/hour) with inlet conditions of 1860 psia (128 barA) and 1055 F (568 C). Operation of each of these nine atmospheric resistors is controlled by an advanced technology valve (DRAG® and other designs depending upon specific need) in series which shares the total pressure drop with its atmospheric vent resistor.

These new atmospheric resistors at the Bajío Power Plant in Mexico are smaller and weigh much less than a conventional muffler designed for the same service. In addition, strict kinetic-energy control through multi-stage design permits the guarantee of lower noise levels throughout the steam venting systems of this new plant.

Published in SOLUTIONS Spring 2001