Engineering Standard 16 February 2022

SAES-L-108
Selection of Valves
Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee

Previous Revision: 19 February 2019 Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027

Contact: (harbmr0b) Page 1 of 33

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

Contents
Summary of Changes ................................................................................................................................... 3
1 Scope ..................................................................................................................................................... 6
2 Conflicts and Deviations ........................................................................................................................ 6
3 References ............................................................................................................................................. 6
4 General .................................................................................................................................................. 8
5 General Design Limitations .................................................................................................................. 10
5.1 Bonnet/Cover ................................................................................................................................ 10
5.2 End Connections .......................................................................................................................... 11
5.3 Ratings .......................................................................................................................................... 11
5.4 Sizes ............................................................................................................................................. 12
5.5 Stem Packing................................................................................................................................ 12
5.6 Operator ........................................................................................................................................ 12
5.7 Installation ..................................................................................................................................... 12
6 Specific Valve Type Limitations ........................................................................................................... 13
6.1 Ball and Plug Valves ..................................................................................................................... 13
6.2 Butterfly Valves ............................................................................................................................. 13
6.3 Check Valves ................................................................................................................................ 14
6.4 Plug Valves ................................................................................................................................... 15
6.5 Gate Valves .................................................................................................................................. 15
6.6 Manual globe valves ..................................................................................................................... 15
6.7 Chokes .......................................................................................................................................... 15
7 Specific Service Limitations ................................................................................................................. 16
7.1 Low Temperature Services ........................................................................................................... 16
7.2 Underwater Valves ....................................................................................................................... 16
7.3 Pressure Relief Valve Piping ........................................................................................................ 16
7.4 Flare Systems ............................................................................................................................... 16
7.5 Emergency Isolation Valves ......................................................................................................... 16
7.6 Firewater Systems ........................................................................................................................ 17
7.7 Drains and Vents .......................................................................................................................... 17
7.8 Storage Tanks and Vessels .......................................................................................................... 17
7.9 Scraper Trap Valves ..................................................................................................................... 17
7.10 Instrumentation Root Isolation Valves .......................................................................................... 17
7.11 Steam Service .............................................................................................................................. 18
7.12 Blowdown Valves .......................................................................................................................... 18
7.13 Bypass/Equalization Valves ......................................................................................................... 18
7.14 Buried Valves ................................................................................................................................ 18
7.15 Auto-Ignition services ................................................................................................................... 18
7.16 Sectionalizing and lateral valves for pipelines .............................................................................. 19
8 Materials Limitations ............................................................................................................................ 19
Document History ........................................................................................................................................ 19
Materials Appendix ...................................................................................................................................... 20

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 2 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

Summary of Changes
Paragraph Number
Change
Previous Current Technical Change(s)
Type
Revision Revision
07 May 2019 16 Feb 2022
Added SAES-A-134. Updated title for 04-SAMSS-001, 047, 051, and 055.
3 3 Modification Updated description for API 6D and API 6FA. Added API 6A and removed ISO
10423. Added API RP 615 and NACE MR0103/ISO 17945.
Replaced “All requisitions, except those for ISO 10423 valves and chokes, shall
reference 04-SAMSS-035 and 04-SAMSS-048.” with “All requisitions, except
4.5 and 7.9 4.5 Modification those for API 6A valves and chokes, shall reference 04-SAMSS-035 and 04-
SAMSS-048. All requisitions for API 6A valves and chokes shall reference 04-
SAMSS-055.”
Added note “For project reviews, list all Valve Data Sheets for 04-SAMSS valves
4.6 4.6 Modification
and chokes under Index L.”
4.7.1 4.7.3 Editorial Renumbered 4.7.1 as 4.7.3. Renumbered other sections accordingly.

4.7.2 4.7.1 Editorial Added note and included additional definition for proponent in parenthesis.

4.7.6 4.7.7 Editorial Updated note.

Changed “The use of ANSI FCI 70.2 to specify seat leakage criteria is not
permitted without the specific approval of the Chairman of the Valves Standards
4.8 4.8 Modification Committee. Chokes are exempt from this requirement.” to “The use of ANSI/FCI
70.2 to specify seat leakage criteria for valves covered under this engineering
standard is not permitted. Note: Chokes are exempt from this requirement.”
4.9 4.9 Editorial Added new note

- 4.10 Addition Added new section to address dead-legs.

Handling, hauling, receiving inspection, and storage of valves and chokes shall
- 4.11 Addition
be in accordance with SAEP-35.
Changed “Valve preventive maintenance shall be in accordance with SAEP-29.”
to “Preventive maintenance of valves and chokes shall be in accordance with
4.10 4.12 Modification
SAEP-29. Critical valves shall be included in the Equipment Inspection Schedule
(EIS) as per SAEP-20 requirements.”
When a service type is referenced in this specification and no definition has been
- 4.13 Addition
provided, refer to the definition in API RP 615.
5.1.1 5.1.1 Editorial Reworded paragraph
Changed “Bonnets retained by split rings and sealed by means of an O-ring or a
seal-welded membrane shall only be used after approval by the Chairman of the
5.1.2 5.1.2 Modification
Valves Standards Committee.” to “Bonnets retained by split rings and sealed by
means of an O-ring or a seal-welded membrane are not permitted.”
Removed “Other proposals for securing bonnets shall be specifically approved
5.1.4 5.1.4 Modification
by the Chairman of the Valves Standards Committee”. Added exception
5.2.2 5.2.2 Modification Removed “and the Chairman of the Valves Standards Committee”. Added note.
Removed “provided it is specifically approved by the Chairman of the Valves
5.2.3 5.2.3 Modification
Standards Committee.”
- 5.2.4 Addition Added new paragraph

- 5.2.5 Addition Added new paragraph

5.5 5.5 Modification Removed “except as permitted by an approved SAMSS.”

Removed “specifically approved by the Chairman of the Valves Standards
5.7.1 5.7.1 Modification
Committee.”
- 5.7.2 Modification Added new section for unidirectional Isolation valves

- 5.7.3 Addition Added new paragraph

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 3 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

5.7.2 5.7.4 Editorial Renumbered section 5.7.4

6.1 6.1 Modification Removed term “handwheel”

Removed term “high performance”. Removed “unless otherwise approved by the
6.2.2 6.2.2 Modification
Chairman of the Valves Standards Committee.”
6.2.2 a) 6.2.2 a) Modification Included term “double or triple”

6.3.1 6.3.1 Modification Deleted term “wafer”

Replaced “A non-slam internal-spring-assisted type check valve shall be installed
at the discharge of pumps and compressors. Other check valve types shall be
specifically approved by the Chairman of the Valves Standards Committee.” with
“A non-slam internal-spring-assisted nozzle/piston type check valve shall be
installed at the discharge of pumps and compressors. Other check valve types
6.3.2 6.3.2 Modification
shall be supported by a hydraulic analysis to verify that the selected check
valves have the correct dynamic response to prevent slamming and limit
pressure surge to an acceptable level (the analysis shall include consideration of
the “worst case” operating mode scenario) and specifically approved by the
Proponent (Operating organization).”
- 6.3.3 Addition added new paragraph to include basic information when specifying a check valve

- 6.3.4 Addition added new paragraph to verify check valve suitability.

6.3.3 6.3.5 Editorial Reworded paragraph.

Added “to minimize potential wear/damage to internal valve part” and changed
6.3.4 6.3.6 Addition “Chairman of the Valves Standards Committee” to “Proponent (Operating
organization)”
Removed “unless specifically approved by the Chairman of the Valve Standards
6.3.5 6.3.7 Modification
Committee”.
6.3.6 6.3.8 Modification Added “double” to the term “flanged”.
Changed “Spring-assisted non-slam piston check valves (also referred to as
nozzle check valves) shall be long-pattern with face-to-face dimensions in
accordance with API SPEC 6D. Short-pattern valves shall not be used without
6.3.7 6.3.9 Modification
the review and approval of the Chairman of the Valves Standards Committee.” to
“Spring-assisted non-slam piston-type and nozzle-type check valves shall be
long-pattern with face-to-face dimensions in accordance with API SPEC 6D.”
Changed “Gate valve designs which include internal coating on the body seat
area or guides shall be supplied with a rubber-lined wedge.” to “Gate valve
5.8 6.5 Editorial designs which include internal coating on the body seat area (such as some
AWWA valve designs for waterworks applications) or guides shall be supplied
with a rubber-lined wedge.”
- 6.6 Addition Added new section covering manual globe valves

- 6.7 Addition Added new section covering chokes

7.1.1 7.1.1 Editorial Editorial change

revised paragraph to reference materials listed in ASME B 16.34, Table 1 and
7.1.2 7.1.2 Editorial
ASME B31.3, Table A-1 for the valve design temperature.
Changed “high performance butterfly (flanged)” to “butterfly (double-flanged API
7.3 7.3.1 Modification
609 Category B triple offset-type)”
Changed “high performance butterfly” to “butterfly (double-flanged API 609
7.4.1 7.4.1 Modification
Category B triple offset-type)”.
Changed “high performance butterfly (flanged)” to “butterfly (double-flanged API
7.5 7.5.1 Modification
609 Category B triple offset-type)”
Changed “Soft seated valves shall be fire safe in accordance with API STD 607,
API SPEC 6FA, or ISO 10497” to “Soft seated Valves shall be fire-safe type-
7.5 7.5.2 Modification
tested and certified designs in accordance with API STD 607, API STD 6FA, or
ISO 10497”.
Changed “Flangeless valves shall not be used as the first block valve against
7.8 7.8 Modification storage tanks or vessels containing hazardous materials unless specifically
approved by the Chairman of the Valves Standards Committee” to “Flangeless

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 4 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

valves shall not be used as the first block valve against storage tanks or vessels
containing hydrocarbons or hazardous materials”.
7.9 4.5 Modification Removed section covering ISO 10423 valves and chokes. Now covered by 4.5.
Changed “Scraper trap mainline isolation valves shall be full bore through
conduit gate or ball valves in accordance with API SPEC 6D. The seating
configuration shall provide DIB-2 functionality unless otherwise specified. Other
valve types are permitted subject to the review and approval by the Chairman of
7.10.1 7.9.1 Modification the Valves Standards Committee and the Proponent Operating Department on a
case-by-case basis.” to “Scraper trap mainline isolation valves shall be full bore
through conduit gate or ball valves in accordance with API SPEC 6D. The
seating configuration shall provide DIB-2 functionality unless otherwise approved
by the Proponent (Operating organization) on a case-by-case basis.”
7.10.2 7.9.2 Editorial Renumbered paragraph.
Listing the requirement as an exception under 7.10.3. changed reference to ISO
7.10.5 7.9.3 Modification
10423 to API SPEC 6A.
Changed “The scraper trap isolation valve and the kicker valve shall have a
minimum trim metallurgy of Stainless Steel F51, for sour service the minimum
trim metallurgy shall be Alloy 625 or Alloy 718. In addition, the valve seat pockets
(applicable to spring loaded seats only) shall be specified to have an Alloy 625
7.10.4 7.9.4 Modification
weld overlay.” to “Scraper trap isolation valves and kicker valves shall have: (a) a
minimum trim metallurgy of 22Cr Duplex Stainless Steel (UNS S31803); and, (b)
the valve seat pockets for spring loaded seat designs only shall be specified to
have an Alloy 625 weld overlay.”
Removed “Approval of equivalents shall be referred to the Chairman of the
7.11.1 7.10.1 Modification Valves Standards Committee”. Added exception “modular piping class valve
assemblies in 7.11.2 are an exception”.
Removed “subject to specific review and approval by the Chairman of the Valves
7.11.2 7.10.2 Modification Standards Committee on a case-by-case basis”. Added considerations and
criteria for evaluation and use of such valve assemblies.
Removed “Other gate type shall be specifically approved by the Chairman of the
7.12 7.11 Modification
Valves Standards Committee.”
7.13 7.12 Editorial Renumbered paragraph.

7.14 7.13 Editorial Renumbered paragraph.

7.15 7.14 Editorial Renumbered paragraph and reworded exception.

Removed “The use of rising stem valves is not permitted without the specific
7.16 7.15 Modification
approval of the Chairman of the Valves Standards Committee.”
Removed “Other isolation valve types are permitted subject to the review and
7.17 7.16 Modification approval by the Chairman of the Valves Standards Committee and the
Proponent Operating Department on a case-by-case basis.”
Removed “A material which is equivalent or better than a material listed in the
Materials Appendix attached to this standard can be used subject to the approval
of the Chairman of the Valves Standards Committee. For service conditions
8.3 8.3 Modification which differ from those listed in the Materials Appendix attached to this standard,
consult the Chairman of the Valves Standards Committee.” Modified “See SAES-
L-132 and SAES-A-133” to “See SAES-L-132 and SAES-A-133 for additional
requirements and material limitations.”
8.4, 8.5, 8.6,
- Deletion Removed sections which are covered by the references in 8.3.
8.8
8.7 8.5 Modification Renumbered section.
Materials Materials Table I: changed TEFZEL to ETFE in the remarks column for crude oil or
Appendix Appendix Modification product; added general notes (H) and (I); changed ISO 10423 to API 6A in note
Table I Table I 18.

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 5 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

1 Scope
1.1 This Standard covers limitations on the selection of all valves normally classified
under Saudi Aramco Materials System (SAMS) Class 04. This will normally
include ball, butterfly, check, choke, diaphragm, gate, globe, needle, and plug
valves used for on-off, for manual control service or for prevention of reverse
flow, as appropriate.
1.2 Specifically excluded from the scope are:
a) Control, safety-relief, relief, surge relief, solenoid, pilot, and other valves
classified under SAMS Class 34.
b) Applications involving flues and chimneys, air conditioning and ventilation
ducts.
c) Drilling and wellhead valves classified under SAMS Class 45.
1.3 Where applicable, this Standard supplements the requirements of ASME B31,
Code for Pressure Piping.
2 Conflicts and Deviations
Any conflicts between this document and other applicable Mandatory Saudi Aramco
Engineering Requirements (MSAERs) shall be addressed to the EK&RD Manager.
Any deviation from the requirements herein shall follow internal company procedure
SAEP-302.
3 References
All referenced specifications, standards, codes, drawings, and similar material are
considered part of this engineering standard to the extent specified, applying the
latest version, unless otherwise stated.
3.1 Saudi Aramco References
Saudi Aramco Engineering Procedures
SAEP-29 General Instructions and Guidelines for Online Valve
Preventive Maintenance
SAEP-35 Valves Handling, Hauling, Receipt Tests, and Storage
SAEP-302 Waiver of a Mandatory Saudi Aramco Engineering
Requirement
Saudi Aramco Engineering Standards
SAES-A-007 Hydrostatic Testing Fluids and Lay-up Requirements
SAES-A-133 Internal Corrosion Protection Requirements

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 6 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

SAES-A-134 External Corrosion Protection Requirements

SAES-B-017 Fire Water System Design
SAES-L-109 Selection of Flanges, Stud Bolts, and Gaskets
SAES-L-110 Limitations on Pipe Joints and Components
SAES-L-132 Materials Selection for Pipelines, Piping, and Process
Equipment
SAES-L-136 Pipe, Flange, and Fitting Material Requirements
SAES-L-310 Design of Plant Piping
SAES-H-001 Coating Selection and Application Requirements for Industrial
Plants and Equipment
SAES-H-002 Internal and External Coatings for Steel Pipelines and Piping
SAES-H-004 Protective Coating Selection and Application Requirements for
Offshore Structures and Facilities
SAES-W-011 Welding Requirements for On-plot Piping
SAES-W-012 Welding Requirements for Pipelines
Saudi Aramco Materials System Specifications
04-SAMSS-001 Gate Valves, Supplementary Requirements to IOGP S-611
04-SAMSS-002 Steel Globe Valves - Flanged and Butt-welding Ends
04-SAMSS-003 Additional Requirements for Low Temperature Valves
04-SAMSS-005 Check Valves: Flanged, Lug, and Butt-welding
04-SAMSS-035 General Requirements for Valves
04-SAMSS-041 Expanding Plug Valve
04-SAMSS-042 4-Way Diverter Valves
04-SAMSS-047 Butterfly Valves– API 609 Category B
04-SAMSS-048 Valve Inspection and Testing Requirements
04-SAMSS-050 Gate Valves, Through Conduit Type, API SPEC 6D
04-SAMSS-051 Ball Valves, Supplementary Requirements to IOGP S-562
04-SAMSS-053 Steel Lubricated Plug Valves - Flanged and Welding End
04-SAMSS-055 Valves and Chokes, API SPEC 6A
Saudi Aramco Form and Data Sheet

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 7 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

SA-6233-1 Valve Data Sheet

3.2 Industry Codes and Standards
American National Standards Institute/Fluid Controls Institute
ANSI/FCI 70.2 Control Valve Seat Leakage
American Petroleum Institute
API SPEC 6A Specification for Wellhead and Tree Equipment
API SPEC 6D Specification for Valves
API STD 6FA Standard for Fire Test for Valves
API STD 598 Valve Inspection and Testing
API STD 602 Gate, Globe, and Check Valves for Sizes DN 100 (NPS 4) and
Smaller for the Petroleum and Natural Gas Industries
API STD 607 Fire Test for Quarter-turn Valves and Valves Equipped with
Non-metallic Seats
API STD 609 Butterfly Valves: Double-flanged, Lug- and Wafer-Type
API RP 615 Valve Selection Guide
American Society of Mechanical Engineers
ASME B16.5 Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings
ASME B16.34 Valves - Flanged, Threaded, and Welding End
ASME B31 Code for Pressure Piping
International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
ISO 10497 Testing of Valves — Fire Type-Testing Requirements
Manufacturers Standardization Society of the Valve and Fittings Industry, Inc.
MSS SP-45 Bypass and Drain Connections
National Association of Corrosion Engineers/International Standardization
Organization
NACE MR0103 / Materials Resistant to Sulfide Stress Cracking in Corrosive
ISO 17945 Petroleum Refining Environments
NACE MR0175 / Petroleum, Petrochemical and Natural Gas Industries -
ISO 15156 Materials for Use in H2S Containing Environments in Oil and
Gas Production
4 General

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 8 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

4.1 Valves and chokes shall be purchased in accordance with the Saudi Aramco
Regulated Vendors List (RVL).
4.2 The selection of valves and chokes shall normally be limited to the materials,
types and sizes that are listed in Saudi Aramco Materials System (SAMS) Class
04 specifications unless no suitable valve is listed.
4.3 Whenever applicable, the relevant Saudi Aramco Materials System
Specifications (SAMSS's) listed in Section 3 of this standard shall be included in
all requisitions.
4.4 At times it is necessary to purchase a valve that is generally similar to that
covered by an SAMSS but differing from it in some specific design, construction,
materials, or performance characteristics. In such cases, the SAMSS shall be
included in the purchase requisition in addition to the required modifications
provided that these modifications are in accordance with all other Mandatory
Saudi Aramco Engineering Requirements.
4.5 All requisitions, except those for API 6A valves and chokes, shall reference 04-
SAMSS-035 and 04-SAMSS-048. All requisitions for API 6A valves and chokes
shall reference 04-SAMSS-055.
4.6 Form SA-6233-1, Valve Data Sheet, shall be filled out for each non-SMG
(System Materials Group) line item and attached to every purchase requisition.
Note: For project reviews, list all Valve Data Sheets for 04-SAMSS valves and
chokes under Index L.
4.7 Field Tests
4.7.1 If requested by the Proponent (Operating organization), new valves designated
for isolation service (as specified by the Proponent Operating organization) shall
be subjected to a high pressure hydrostatic seat test prior to installation in the
line.
Note: The requirements in SAEP-35 are independent of the requirement above.
SAEP-35 mandates pressure testing of all valves which have been in long term
storage prior to installation.
4.7.2 Valves selected for seat testing shall be subjected to a shell pressure test at the
valve rated pressure unless otherwise agreed with the Proponent (Operating
organization).
4.7.3 Testing location shall be subject to Proponent (Operating organization)
acceptance. The test location shall be approved by Saudi Aramco Inspection
Department through a formal assessment.
4.7.4 A low pressure pneumatic seat test at 35 kPa (5 psig) shall be substituted for the
high pressure hydrostatic seat test for flare system valves.

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 9 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

4.7.5 Buttweld and socketweld end valves in nominal pipe size (NPS) 2-inches and
smaller are exempt from the above field testing requirements.
4.7.6 Test procedures, pressures, durations, and leakage acceptance criteria shall be
equal to those that the valves were originally purchased to, except for the shell
test pressure which should be limited to the valve rated pressure. All resilient
(soft) seated isolation valves shall have zero leakage.
4.7.7 If valves are subjected to field hydrotesting, see SAEP-35 and SAES-A-007. For
major projects where numerous valves are to be subjected to field hydrotesting,
a preservation package shall be developed and approved prior to the initiation of
any testing.
Note: Consider the valve features and materials at design stage and when
developing a preservation package, see SAES-A-133.
4.8 The use of ANSI/FCI 70.2 to specify seat leakage criteria for valves covered
under this engineering standard is not permitted.
Note: Chokes are exempt from this requirement.
4.9 Trim material includes the stem, the body and closure seating surfaces,
bushings, pins, springs, guides, and any other small parts in contact with the
service fluid.
4.10 Drain valves, valves at low points and body cavity auxiliary drains (piping and
valves) where water may collect under stagnant flow conditions shall be
addressed per the dead leg sections in SAES-L-310.
4.11 Handling, hauling, receiving inspection, and storage of valves and chokes shall
be in accordance with SAEP-35.
4.12 Preventive maintenance of valves and chokes shall be in accordance with
SAEP-29.
Note: Include critical valves in the SAEP-20, Equipment Inspection Schedule (EIS).
4.13 When a service type is referenced in this specification and no definition has been
provided, refer to the definition in API RP 615.
5 General Design Limitations
5.1 Bonnet/Cover
5.1.1 Pressure seal bonnet/cover designs are permitted in steam or other clean non-
corrosive services. The use of pressure seal bonnet/cover designs in other
services is only permitted if the body has been inlayed in the bonnet sealing area
with an 18-8 material or higher alloy suitable for the service.
5.1.2 Bonnets retained by split rings and sealed by means of an O-ring or a seal-
welded membrane are not permitted.

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 10 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

5.1.3 The use of welded bonnet valves in hydrocarbon services shall be limited to
NPS 4 and smaller provided it is approved by the Director of the responsible
operating department.
5.1.4 Screwed bonnet and screwed body valves shall not be used in any hydrocarbon
or hazardous material services unless the bonnets and body end connections
are tack welded to the body or provided with locking pin.
Exception: Choke bonnet designs that are self-locking by design (such as the Stub
ACME threaded type) can be exempted from the above requirement
provided the choke manufacturer has design calculations that
demonstrate the design is self-locking and the calculations have been
reviewed by an independent third-party certification body.
5.1.5 Straight-thru union body check valves shall be used only in portions of piping
systems where pipe unions are permissible.
5.1.6 Union bonnet valves shall not be used in any hydrocarbon or hazardous material
services.
5.2 End Connections
5.2.1 The requirements of SAES-L-110 are applicable to all valves.
5.2.2 Integral flanged valve bodies with tapped bolt holes shall not be used except with
specific approval of the Proponent (Operating organization). This requirement
does not apply to lug type valves.
Note: Integral flanged valve bodies with tapped bolt holes can be considered when
other options are not feasible or where there is a strong technical justification
for their use. Prior to using such designs, consider installation, removal and
potential for stuck bolting.
5.2.3 If requested by the Proponent (Operating organization), critical valves, welding
end valves, and others that cannot be removed from the line without serious
difficulty (e.g., in restrained pipelines), NPS 8 and larger, shall be of a type that
is repairable in the line such as a top-entry design.
5.2.4 When replacing existing valves with non-standard flange dimensions (such as
NPS 30 and larger in Class 1500), the Purchaser shall include the applicable
standard drawing in the purchase documents.
5.2.5 When raised face flanges are to be used for hydrogen service, the Purchaser
must specify the special flange face surface finish requirements per SAES-L-109
in the valve purchase documents.

5.3 Ratings

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 11 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

5.3.1 Valves utilizing soft seats do not necessarily follow ASME B16.5 or other industry
standard pressure-temperature (P-T) relationships at temperatures above 38°C.
The specific valve manufacturer’s literature shall be consulted when the
pressure-temperature ratings for higher temperatures have not been specified
by the relevant SAMSS or the Purchase Order.
5.3.2 In hydrocarbon services, the minimum body rating of threaded and socketweld
end NPS 2 and smaller valves shall be equivalent to API STD 602 Class 800.
5.4 Sizes
Valves shall be subject to the same size limitations specified for pipe in
SAES-L-136.
5.5 Stem Packing
Isolation valves NPS 3 and larger in hydrocarbon services shall not be provided with
pure polymer/elastomer stem packing or stem seals unless the valves have been
qualified as fire-safe.
5.6 Operator
5.6.1 The need for power actuation of all valves NPS 12 and larger in all pressure
classes shall be reviewed with the responsible operating organization.
5.6.2 Chainwheel operation shall not be provided for emergency isolation valves or
valves having a threaded body connection.
5.7 Installation
5.7.1 Gate valves with back-seats
Gate valves with back-seats shall not be installed with their stems below the
horizontal except in the following cases: (a) clean services, (b) when they function
as isolation valves in pressure relief and flare system piping, and (c) when in utility
or other similar non-critical services (firewater is considered to be critical service).
Critical / non-critical valves shall be specified by proponent (Operating organization).
5.7.2 Unidirectional Isolation valves
The blockage direction required during operation and also during maintenance shall
be considered prior to selecting unidirectional isolation valves.
Notes: Isolation valves that include an equalizing hole in the closure member to
connect the valve body cavity with the high-pressure (HP) side of the valve
when the closure member is in the closed position to relieve excess cavity
pressure are unidirectional designs. Such isolation valves are designed to
block flow when the pressure source is on the side of the valve designated HP.

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 12 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

It may not always be obvious to the valve installer(s) whether the marking on
a valve body (e.g., a directional arrow) indicates the direction of normal flow or
the direction of pressure against which the valve shall seal when in the closed
position. This can be opposite of the normal flow direction.
Care needs to be taken when interpreting directional arrows and marking on
valve bodies to ensure the valve is installed in the correct direction.
The system drawings (for example, piping isometrics or P&ID) shall show the valve
installation orientation with reference to the marking on the valve.
5.7.3 When ductile and cast-iron bodied valves are supplied with coating on the flange
gasket seating face, the gaskets used during valve installation shall be
compatible with the valve and pipe flange facing.
5.7.4 Seal welding
5.7.4.1 All threaded connections on valve bodies and associated piping shall be
seal welded.
Exceptions: Exceptions are those connections that are frequently
disassembled (such as vent and drain plugs) and those that are
adjacent to elements that contain small moving parts (such as
injection fittings and body relief valves).
5.7.4.2 Seal welding shall follow the general requirements of SAES-L-110.
6 Specific Valve Type Limitations
6.1 Ball and Plug Valves
Lever operated valves shall be equipped with a self-locking handle to prevent
accidental operation.
6.2 Butterfly Valves
6.2.1 Concentric butterfly valves, such as the API STD 609 Category A type (typically
with internal rubber linings), are permitted only in non-hydrocarbon applications.
6.2.2 The use of butterfly valves in hydrocarbon service shall be limited to a maximum
rating of Class 600 and clean service. Minimum requirements in hydrocarbon
service are as follows:
a) Valves shall be designed in accordance with API STD 609 Category B
with double or triple offset-type construction.
b) Valves shall be qualified fire-safe to either API SPEC 6FA, API STD 607,
or ISO 10497, except in applications where other components of the
system are not designed to be firesafe such as Single-Point-Mooring
(SPM) systems.

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 13 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

c) The body shall be of the lug-type design with tapped bolt holes or the
double-flanged type. Use of the wafer-type body is not permitted.
d) Valves shall be full-rated.
Exception: In systems where the normal operating pressure is 103 kPa
(15 psig) or less, the valve may be specified with half-rated trim
(approximately 50% of the full-rated pressure).
e) Valves shall be bi-directional, although they may have a “preferred”
direction. Valves shall be installed in the “preferred” direction indicated on
the valve.
6.3 Check Valves
6.3.1 Dual- and single-plate check and swing check valves shall not be used in
reciprocating pump and compressor suction and discharge services or similar
pulsating services.
6.3.2 A non-slam internal-spring-assisted nozzle type check valve shall be installed at
the discharge of pumps and compressors. Other check valve types shall be
supported by a hydraulic analysis to verify that the selected check valves have
the correct dynamic response to prevent slamming and limit pressure surge to
an acceptable level (the analysis shall include consideration of the “worst case”
operating mode scenario) and specifically approved by the Proponent (Operating
organization).
6.3.3 The service, design and operating scenarios, including minimum flowrate,
maximum flowrate and frequency, shall be included in the valve purchase
documents.
6.3.4 Check valve sizing and dynamic response characteristics shall be evaluated by
the system designer and the valve manufacturer to verify the suitability of the
selected check valves for the application.
6.3.5 If requested by the Proponent (Operating organization), for parallel pump
systems with individual pump discharge piping of NPS 20 and greater, a
hydraulic analysis shall be conducted to verify that the selected check valves
have the correct dynamic response to prevent slamming and limit pressure surge
to an acceptable level. The analysis shall include consideration of the “worst
case” operating mode scenario.
6.3.6 For piping NPS 4 and larger, a turbulence-free minimum distance of 5 pipe
diameters upstream and 2 pipe diameters downstream of every check valve shall
be maintained to minimize potential wear/damage to internal valve parts. Pipe
fittings (e.g., elbows, reducers, tees, etc.) or flow-restricting devices (e.g.,
orifices, control valves, etc.) shall not be installed in these zones unless the

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 14 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

design is supported by analysis and specifically approved by the Proponent

(Operating organization).
Exceptions: Valves in intermittent service and valves in skid-mounted systems are
exempt from these requirements.
6.3.7 Check valves in sizes NPS 3 and above shall not be installed in vertical lines.
Exceptions: Valves in skid-mounted systems are exempt from this requirement.
6.3.8 Check valves in hydrocarbon service up to Class 600 shall either have a lug-type
body with tapped bolt holes or a double-flanged body. In class 900 and higher
ratings, a double-flanged body is mandatory. Wafer-type bodies are not
permitted in any hydrocarbon service.
6.3.9 Spring-assisted non-slam piston-type and nozzle-type check valves shall be
long-pattern with face-to-face dimensions in accordance with API SPEC 6D.
6.4 Plug Valves
Flanged plug valves in hydrocarbon service shall be of the inverted lubricated
pressure balanced design, except that Class 150 valves NPS 6 and smaller may
have a standard plug with springs for balancing the plug.
6.5 Gate Valves
Gate valve designs which include internal coating on the body seat area (such
as some AWWA valve designs for waterworks applications) or guides shall be
supplied with a rubber-lined wedge.
6.6 Manual globe valves
Goble valves should be sized to have the disc at least 20 % open.
Note: Operating globe valves with the disc/plug in a pinched down position can lead
to accelerated wear and flow-induced vibration and associated damage. See
API RP 615 for industry guidance.
6.7 Chokes
6.7.1 Chokes shall not be used as shutoff valves.
6.7.2 Multi stage anti-cavitation trims shall be selected for water services with a
pressure drop ratio exceeding 0.65. The pressure drop ratio is calculated by
dividing the pressure drop by the upstream pressure.
Exception: Start-up cases of short duration which are infrequent can normally be
exempted from this requirement.

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 15 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

7 Specific Service Limitations

7.1 Low Temperature Services
7.1.1 Valves in service with a low temperature between -19°C and -45°C shall meet
the requirements of 04-SAMSS-003. If the service is also sour, compliance with
NACE MR0175/ISO 15156 shall be specifically stated in the purchase
requisition.
7.1.2 All valves in service below -45°C shall be of full austenitic stainless steel
materials listed in ASME B 16.34, Table 1 and also listed in ASME B31.3,
Table A-1 for the minimum design temperature. The marking shall meet the
requirements of 04-SAMSS-003, paragraph 6.3.
7.1.3 All valves in service below -100°C shall have an extended bonnet.
7.1.4 For LPG or high pressure gases which auto-refrigerate, an upstream gate valve
shall be installed in addition to the throttling valve in any line that discharges to
the atmosphere or to a low pressure system.
7.2 Underwater Valves
Isolation valves shall be ball type per 04-SAMSS-051 with a minimum rating of
Class 300. The flange face shall be the ring joint type.
7.3 Pressure Relief Valve Piping
7.3.1 Isolation valves in stand-alone pressure relief valve inlet and discharge piping
shall be gate, ball, butterfly (double-flanged API 609 Category B triple offset-
type), or plug valves that can be car-sealed open.
7.3.2 A gate valve in this service shall be installed with the stem in or below the
horizontal position.
7.3.3 For clean gas service, the valves shall be soft seated with double block and bleed
capability if temperature permits.
7.4 Flare Systems
7.4.1 Isolation valves in flare system piping shall be gate, ball, butterfly (double-flanged
API 609 Category B triple offset-type) or plug valves.
7.4.2 A gate valve in this service shall be installed with the stem in or below the
horizontal position.
7.5 Emergency Isolation Valves
7.5.1 Emergency isolation valves (EIVs) shall be gate, ball, butterfly (double-flanged
API 609 Category B triple offset-type) or plug valves.
7.5.2 Soft seated Valves shall be fire-safe type-tested and certified designs in
accordance with API STD 607, API STD 6FA, or ISO 10497. Metal seated valves

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 16 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

shall meet the same requirement if they do not have graphite seals or their
standard specified leakage rate exceeds that of API STD 598.
7.6 Firewater Systems
Valves in firewater systems shall meet the requirements of SAES-B-017.
7.7 Drains and Vents
Atmospheric drain and vent valves shall be provided with a plug or blind on the
discharge side.
7.8 Storage Tanks and Vessels
Flangeless valves shall not be used as the first block valve against storage tanks
or vessels containing hydrocarbons or hazardous materials.
7.9 Scraper Trap Valves
7.9.1 Scraper trap mainline isolation valves shall be full bore through conduit gate or
ball valves in accordance with API SPEC 6D. The seating configuration shall
provide DIB-2 functionality unless otherwise approved by the Proponent
(Operating organization) on a case-by-case basis.
7.9.2 Drain valves shall be inverted pressure balanced lubricated plug valves with
hardfacing on the plug and body seating surfaces.
7.9.3 Kicker valves and vent valves shall be inverted pressure balanced lubricated plug
valves.
Exception: For API SPEC 6A services rated above 5,000 psi, metal seated ball
valves for isolation and chokes for throttling service may be used for
drain, kicker and vent valves, as appropriate.
7.9.4 Scraper trap isolation valves and kicker valves shall have:
(a) a minimum trim metallurgy of 22Cr Duplex Stainless Steel (UNS S31803);
and,
(b) the valve seat pockets for spring loaded seat designs only shall be
specified to have an Alloy 625 weld overlay.
The requirements of this paragraph override the materials requirements listed in
the Material Appendix, unless those are more stringent.
Note: An obturator (e.g., ball) in low alloy or carbon steel with corrosion resistant alloy
material weld overlaid on all process wetted surfaces is acceptable for meeting
the above requirement on valves larger than NPS 4.
7.10 Instrumentation Root Isolation Valves
7.10.1 Instrumentation root isolation valves shall be API STD 602 gate valves.
Exception: Modular piping class valve assemblies in 7.11.2 are an exception.

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 17 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

7.10.2 Modular valve assemblies consisting of a root isolation valve together with
bleed/vent and other types of valves (such as ball or needle) are permitted.
Prior to selecting a modular valve assembly, evaluate the likelihood and impact
of taking a modular valve assembly out of service when there is no separate root
valve.
Modular piping class valve assemblies incorporating needle or globe type valve
units disposed around the circumference of a body shall be restricted to
applications where scaling, waxing, or other fouling of the flow passages is
unlikely to occur, owing to the extremely convoluted flow passage.
Modular valve assemblies shall be of a piping class design of bolted bonnet
configuration.
Notes: Instrumentation class valve assemblies do not meet the requirements. Valve
designs with threaded spindle nut arrangements (e.g., EEMUA 182, 2nd
Edition, Figure 5.4.15) do not meet the requirements.
7.11 Steam Service
Isolation valves, NPS 2 and larger, in Class 600 and higher rated systems shall
be parallel slide gate valves equipped with a cavity pressure relief system.
7.12 Blowdown Valves
Blowdown valves in gas pipelines shall be plug valves.
7.13 Bypass/Equalization Valves
Mainline bypass/equalization valves in gas service shall be inverted pressure
balanced lubricated plug valves.
7.14 Buried Valves
Valves shall be an API SPEC 6D valve type which is designed for buried service
in accordance with the requirements in API SPEC 6D and 04-SAMSS-035.
Exceptions: Other valve types are permitted for buried service when specified and
designed with appropriate features (e.g., stem/shaft extension to raise
the operator above ground; extension casing/housing for protecting
extended stems/shafts; sealed interfaces to prevent ingress of external
contaminants and moisture; means of preventing pressure buildup in
stem extension casing/housing assemblies and operators resulting from
stem or bonnet seal leakage; position indicators; valve and auxiliaries
protected from external corrosion with suitable coating system in
accordance with SAES-H standards in Section 3).
Note: See SAES-L-110 for restrictions on flanged joints and SAES-L-109 for
requirements for protection of bolting.
7.15 Auto-Ignition services
Isolation valves shall be quarter turn non-rising stem designs.

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 18 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

7.16 Sectionalizing and lateral valves for pipelines

Isolation valves shall be in accordance with API SPEC 6D and shall be designed
with bidirectional sealing capability and DBB functionality.
8 Materials Limitations
8.1 Valves with bodies of cast iron, ductile iron, or low melting point alloys (such as
brass or bronze) shall not be used in hydrocarbon services.
8.2 Valves with steel bodies shall be used in the following cases:
a) The first valve on all tanks and other vessels if failure could create a
personnel or fire hazard or result in a large monetary loss.
b) In hazardous areas where it is essential that the valve not fail in a fire.
8.3 Minimum (basic) material requirements are specified in the attached Materials
Appendix, except as modified above.
All environmental factors and production/process variables must be evaluated
and where necessary higher corrosion resistance material grades shall be used.
Environment changes during the design life must also be considered.
See SAES-L-132 and SAES-A-133 for additional requirements and material
limitations.
8.4 Refer to paragraph 4.4 for cases where the required materials differ from those
in the 04-SAMSS.
8.5 See SAES-W-011 and SAES-W-012 for restrictions on dissimilar metal welds
(DMWs).

Document History
16 February 2022 Major periodic revision.
19 February 2019 Major revision as it is due for regular update
1 March 2016 Revised the Next Planned

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 19 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

Materials Appendix

Table I - Service and Application Requirements Valve Body and Trim Materials
Conditions Valve Materials
Environment Conc.(%) Temp.(C) Body Trim Remarks

Acid, Hydrochloric LT 37 5 - 50 PVC PVC No ferric ions or other

B-2 B-2 oxidants for B-2

Acid, Hydrofluoric 1 - 70 5 - 50 M400 C-276 No glass or glass reinforced

non-oxidizing GT 65 5 - 40 PTFE, PFA PTFE, PFA plastics; no titanium,
zirconium or tantalum

Acid, Hydrofluoric All conc. to 50 20 20

(aerated or oxidizing)

Acid, Nitric 1 - 70 5 - 50 304L (6) 304L 304L is preferred to 316L for

70 - 99 30 max. 304L 304L nitric acid

Acid, Phosphoric 1 - 85 5 - 50 316 316L Applies to chloride or fluoride

G-3(X) G-3(X) free grades of phosphoric
acid only

Acid, Sulfuric(8) 90 -100+ to 50 316 316L

or Sulfurous 1 -103 to 65 20 20
to 60 to 65 CPVC CPVC
1 - 100 100 C-276 C-276

ADIP (Amino- 20 - 30 5 - 150 CS 316 No copper alloys allowed

Diisopropanol)

Air or Nitrogen gas N/A 0 - 400 CS 410

BR BR

Ammonia, 100 0 - 50 CS 410 No copper alloys allowed

Anhydrous (10)

Carbon Dioxide
dry 100 0 - 150 CS 410
wet LT 100 5 - 90 316 316

Chlorine,
dry (12) 100 0 - 70 CS M400
M400 M400
wet (13) LT 100 0 - 70 CPVC CPVC
C-276 C-276 For castings, Alloy C-4
LT 10 0-49 PVC PVC is preferred to C-276

Chlorine/Water 1-5 to 50 PVC PVC

50 - 80 CPVC CPVC
to 80 C-276 C-276 For castings, Alloy C-4
is preferred to C-276

(Refer to General and Specific Notes at the end of Table 1)

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 20 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

Table I (Cont'd)

Conditions Valve Materials

Environment Conc.(%) Temp.(C) Body Trim Remarks

Crude Oil or N/A to 220 CS ENP Up to 10% water cut only

Product (15) during the design life.
ETFE or PEEK soft seals
and seats shall be specified if
valves will be exposed to
acidizing conditions
to 280 CS 410
CS 316
CS TC
280 to 340 CrMo5 410 See note (30)
340 to 500 316 316

Diglycolamine to 100 to 65 CS 410 Use 316 bodied valves where

(DGA) or CS 316(X) 304 or 316S.S. pipe is
Diethanolamine 20 - 70 5 - 190 CS 316 employed or for throttling
(DEA) 316(X) 316 applications

Flare Lines N/A to 400 CS 410

CS 316

Freon 100 0 to 70 CS 410

-100 to 0 316 316

Hydrocarbon Gas N/A -18 to 220 CS ENP ENP trim not permitted
including Khuff - 18 to 280 CS 410 for wet or sour gas
Gas (15, 18)
CS TC

Hydrogen (16) 100 0 - 220 CS ENP Same restriction on ENP as

CS 410 above
316(X) 316(X)
220 to 325 CrMo22 410
316(X) 316(X)
325 to 400 316 316

Hypochlorite, to 5 5 - 50 PVC PVC Treat same as chlorine/water

Sodium or Calcium to 15 0 – 60 PTFE/PFA PTFE/PFA solutions

Light Hydrocarbons 100 -18 to 220 CS ENP ENP trim not permitted for
(Butane, Ethane, -18 to 400 CS 410 wet or sour gas
Hexane, Methane, CS 316
Pentane and CS TC
Propane) and -45 to -18 LTS 316
NGL LT -45 304 304
316 316

Lube Oil 100 5 - 120 CS 410

304 304
316 316

(Refer to General and Specific Notes at the end of Table 1)

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 21 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

Table I (Cont'd)
Conditions Valve Materials
Environment Conc.(%) Temp.(C) Body Trim Remarks

Naphtha 100 0 - 150 CS 410

CS 316(X)

Sewer, Oily Water N/A 5 - 50 DI (7) Br(20)

Sewer, N/A 5 - 50 DI (7) Br(20)

Storm or Br (20) Br(20)
Sanitary PVC PVC
to 80 PP PP

Sodium 50 5 - 50 D2 20
Hydroxide 316(X) 316(X)
50 - 80 CS M400
M400(X) M400 (2)
20 5 - 50 CS M400
304L(X) 304L(X)
7 5 - 80 CS 316
CS M400
7 80 - 100 M400 M400

Steam 100 120 - 400 CS 410 Seat rings shall be overlayed

400 - 480 CRMoll 410 with Hard Facing. For Class
600 systems and higher, all
seating areas shall be
overlayed with Hard Facing

Steam 100 5 - 120 CS 410

Condensate CS 410

Sulfur Dioxide 0.5 C-276 C-276 Solution in deaerated

(Solution) sea-water, pH 1.5

Sulfur Molten 100 GT 107 CS 316 Keep dry. Moisture causes

corrosion

Water
Non-corrosive N/A 0 - 100 CS 410 Includes deaerated and/or
(oxygen free or D1 (7) Br inhibited sea, raw, well water
(inhibited) Br Br Zeolite softened, chilled, and
CS 316 boiler feed water. pH GT 6,
oxygen LT 25 ppb

Potable (Sweet) (31) N/A 5 - 50 Br (20) Br (20) Nickel Aluminum Bronze is

PVC PVC not permitted.
CS (26) 316
D1 (7) Br (20)
50 - 72 Br (20) Br (20)
CS (26) 316
5 - 72 CPVC CPVC

(Refer to General and Specific Notes at the end of Table 1)

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 22 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

Table I (Cont'd)
Conditions Valve Materials
Environment Conc.(%) Temp.(C) Body Trim Remarks

Saline N/A 5 - 80 SSS SSS For sour brine, formation and

(includes all SSS Ti disposal water, and other
untreated sea, Br (20) Br (20) highly corrosive waters such
raw, well, and as untreated sea water,
aquifier waters) Wasia water, up to NPS
(Aerated, corrosive) 4-inch. (21,23)
(14, 28, 29)
CS SSS For larger sizes, body shall
be internally lined or coated.
CS (24) Br (20) (22)
CS 316 (27)
DI Br (20)

Br (20) Br (20) For low pressure utility

D2 Br (20) service waters (raw water,
DI (7) Br (20) well water) which are not as
to 60 PE-HD PE-HD aggressive.
to 80 PP PP

Soft or Pure N/A 5 - 50 304 304 Includes Zeolite softened,

316 316 distilled or demineralized.
5 - 50 PVC PVC
5 – 72 CPVC CPVC
to 80 PP PP

General Notes:
(A) All valve designs shall incorporate features required to resist galling of mating surfaces by means of necessary
hardness differentials, weld overlays, galling resistant material combinations, etc.
(B) Trim material includes the stem, the body and closure seating surfaces, bushings, pins, springs, guides, or any
small parts in contact with the service fluid.
(C) The gate, disc, piston, ball, or plug that provide closure are normally made from the “trim” material in smaller valve
sizes (less than about 6 inches). The closure may be made from material equivalent to the valve body except
that the closure seating surfaces shall be of the material having a corrosion resistance equal to or “better” than
the trim.
(D) See Table IV(a), (b) and (c) for material designations.
(E) LT means “Less Than”, GT means “Greater Than.”
(F) (X) indicates materials for critical applications such as hazardous service, poor accessibility for maintenance, or
significant loss of production in the event of failure.
(G) Austenitic (“300 Series”) stainless steel components that are to be welded or weld overlaid shall be low carbon
(.03% carbon maximum) grades. Low carbon grades may be substituted for regular carbon grades, but not vice
versa.
(H) In making the material selections, consider all internal and external environmental factors, production/process
variables, changes during the design life, and the additional limitations and requirements in SAES-L-132,
SAES-A-133 and SAES-A-134.
(I) All materials for valves and chokes in sour service shall meet the requirements of NACE MR0175/ISO 15156.
Only use NACE MR0103 to define sour service in refinery process environments; see SAES-A-133 and
SAES-L-132.

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 23 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

Table I (Cont'd)
Specific Notes:
(2) Alloy K-500 may be substituted for Alloy 400 where additional hardness or strength is required.
(6) Do not expose stainless-steel trim to HCl acid-cleaning.
(7) Gray cast iron valve bodies may be substituted for ductile iron. However, ductile iron is preferred.
(8) Sulfuric acid concentrations over 100% (“Oleum”) contain free sulfur trioxide.
(10) Inhibited against stress corrosion cracking of steel with minimum 2,000 ppm water.
(12) Dry chlorine contains less than 2,000 ppm water; do not use with titanium components.
(13) Wet chlorine contains at least 2,000 ppm water.
(14) These services are subject to additional considerations such as galvanic compatibility, velocity effects or
additional water chemistry factors. For example, high velocities or low pH may dictate against the use of bronze
trim or Ductile Iron (DI) bodies. Copper alloy bodied valves shall not be used with carbon steel pipe in corrosive
water service without the use of insulating sets.
(15) Materials for valves in wet sour service shall meet the requirements of NACE MR0175/ISO 15156.
NACE MR0175/ISO 15156 defines sour service. See also SAES-A-133.
(16) See Nelson Charts for details concerning the influence of temperature and partial pressure of hydrogen on
material selection.
(18) Body materials for Khuff Gas valves are per API 6A. Drain valves and valves at low points where water may
collect under stagnant conditions shall be addressed per the dead leg sections in SAES-L-310.
(20) Where indicated, the zinc content of wetted copper alloy components shall be 16% or less.
(21) Availability of bronze valves in ratings above Class 150 is limited, and have not yet been tried in Saudi Aramco.
(22) Linings are generally used in butterfly valves, non-lubricated plug valves, and some wedge gate valves. Coatings
are used on ball, check, globe and gate valves; internal coatings shall be in accordance with SAES-H-002 and
04-SAMSS-035.
(23) Sour brine services may require specification of NACE MR0175/ISO 15156.
(24) Use ductile iron body, if available, for butterfly valves in non-hydrocarbon services.
(26) For potable water service, carbon steel body valves with SS316 trim are allowed in NPS 4-inch and above only.
For critical service, use coated or lined valves.
(27) Type 316 trim is only acceptable when there is a high degree of confidence that occasional oxygen ingress cannot
occur due to startup conditions, pump or valve packing leaks, etc. All trim shall be full SS316.
(28) Carbon steel overlaid with Alloy 625 may be substituted for super austenitic or duplex stainless steels (SSS)
provided that (a) the entire exposed area is overlaid and (b) the fused material has no more than 30% dilution.
(29) Where seawater is chlorinated, residual chlorine should be limited to 2 ppm or less for SSS alloys rated A in
Table IV-B, 1 ppm for those rated B, and 0.5 ppm for those rated C. Where residual chlorine exceeds 2 ppm,
the Alloy C family of alloys in Table IV-A should be considered.
(30) For refinery applications, follow SAES-L-132, Table 2.
(31) Materials for drinking water applications shall be in accordance with National Sanitation Foundation (NSF 61).

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 24 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

Table II - Alternate Stem and Spring Materials

The stem and spring alloys listed below may be used in valves having the trim materials
specified in Table I. These alloys usually may be fabricated to the required strength levels
more readily than the general trim materials and their corrosion resistance is
approximately equal to or better than that of the corresponding general trim.
Alternate Alternate
Specified Trim Stem Materials Spring Materials (2)

Stainless Steels
410 17-4, A286 17-4, X750, 600
6NM 17-4, A286 17-4, X750, 600
304 17-4, A286 17-4, X750, 600
316 N50, 718 718, R30035, Elg
20 625 R30035, Elg, 625, C-276
SSS 625 R30035, Elg, 625, C-276

Low Alloy Steels

CrMoll, CrMo22, CrMo5 17-4, 410 17-4, X750

Copper Alloys M400, MK500, SSS, 625, C-276, R30035, Elg

Br Aluminum Bronze, Nickel
Aluminum Bronze, Silicon
Bronze C69400

Nickel Base Alloys

M400 MK500, 718, C-276 (1) R30035, Elg, C-276, 625, 718
G-3 625, C-276 R30035, Elg, C-276, 625

Notes:
(1) A specialized application for gaseous chlorine service.
(2) Iron base alloy springs shall not be used in sour service.

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 25 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

Table III - Service and Application Requirements - Plastic/Elastomeric

Components
M A T E R I A L S (2)
(See Table IV)
(See Notes 7 and 8)
Regarding Fluorocarbon Materials)

Environment (1) O-Rings, Diaphragms &

Resilient Seats (8) Plastic Parts (7)

Acid, Hydrochloric EPDM, T, OT, EOT, IIR, CR PVC, CPVC, PE, PP

Acid, Hydrofluoric CSM, T, OT, EOT PP, PE, PVDC, CPE

Acid, Nitric
to 100% PTFE/Elastomer (3) FFKM CPE, PTFE, FEP
to 60% Fluorocarbon Elastomer CPVC, CPE

Acid, Phosphoric EPDM, IIR, CR, NR, CSM PVC, CPVC, PE, PP,
CPE, PVDC

Acid, Sulfuric Oleum PTFE/Elastomer, FFKM Fluorocarbon Plastics only,

except PVDF and ECTFE

Acid, Sulfuric
90%+ CSM PVDC, CPE
LT 60% CR, CSM, IIR, EPDM PVDC, CPE, CPVC

Acid, Sulfurous Fluorocarbon elastomers

Air Any within dry temperature

and pressure limits

Ammonia (8) Any except amine cured FKM, TFE/P Any except Nylon

Amines (MEA, DEA, DGA, VMQ, EPDM, T, OT, EOT, CSM FEP, PTFE
ADIP) (8) (amine cured FKM, TFE/P not suitable)

Carbon Dioxide, Dry Any within dry temperature limits

150°C and pressure limits

Carbon Dioxide, Wet Any within temperature/

90°C pressure limits

Chlorine, Dry Fluorocarbon Elastomers FVMQ (4) Fluorocarbon Plastics

Chlorine, Wet Fluorocarbon Elastomers FVMQ PVC, CPVC

Crude Oil
to 50°C Fluorocarbon Elastomers PVC, CPVC, PP, PPS
to 200°C Fluorocarbon Elastomers Fluorocarbon Plastics

Freon 11 or 12 NBR, HNBR, CSM, CO, ECO, GECO, CPVC, Nylon

TFE/E (FKM not suitable)

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 26 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

Table III (Cont'd)

M A T E R I A L S (2)
(See Table IV)
(See Notes 7 and 8)
Regarding Fluorocarbon Materials)

Environment (1) O-Rings, Diaphragms &

Resilient Seats (8) Plastic Parts (7)

Gas [T LT 121°C Fluorocarbon Elastomers (5) PVC, CPVC, PPS

(250°F)]

Gasoline (9) FKM, T, OT, EOT, FVMQ PVDF, PVDC, CPE

Gasoline, MTBE blend NBR (min. 40% acrylonitrile), HNBR, FFKM Fluorocarbon plastics

Hydrogen Sulfide T, OT, EOT, CSM, EPDM PE, PP, PVC, PVDF

Hypochlorite, Ca/Na Butyl, CSM, CR, CO, ECO, GECO, EPDM PVC, CPVC, PVDC

Light Hydrocarbons T, OT, EOT, CO, ECO, GECO, FKM, Fluorocarbon Plastics, PPS
(Butane, Ethane, Methane, FMQ, FVMQ
Pentane, Propane)

Naphtha T, OT, EOT, CO, ECO, GECO, FVMQ PVDC, CPE

Sewage, Oily CR, NBR, HNBR, , T, OT, EOT PVC, CPVC, PVDC

Sewage, Sanitary Any Any

Sodium Hydroxide Any except FKM and TFE/P Any except PVDC
at high conc.

Sodium Carbonate (all conc.) Any Polypropylene, NR, PVC,

CPVC
Sodium Sulfite Any Any

Sulfur, Molten PTFE/Elastomer, FFKM Fluorocarbon Plastics

Sulfur Trioxide Solution 0.5% Fluorocarbon Elastomers

Sulfamic Acid (to 30%) EPDM, IIR, CSM, NR PP, PVC

Water, All Services Any except EU (ester-based polyurethane) Any (6)

Notes:
(1) Temperatures are 49°C or less unless otherwise indicated.
(2) See Table IV-A, B and C for material designations.
(3) “Elastomer” indicates any backup elastomer within the permissible temperature range.

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 27 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

Table III (Cont'd)

(4) Do not use diaphragm valves in dry chlorine service.

(5) FKM (such as Viton) shall be the peroxide cured Grade GF, GLC, or equal where amine inhibitor is employed.
(6) For water services, use PVC up to 50°C. Use CPVC in range between 5°C and 72°C.
(7) The fluorocarbon plastics PTFE, FEP, ETFE, ECTFE, CTFE, PFA and PVDF are compatible with all of the
services listed in Table III, except that PVDF and ECTFE are not suitable for oleum service. To avoid excessive
repetition, these materials are not referred to in Table III, except for the notation “fluorocarbon plastics” where the
above are the only suitable materials for plastic liners.
(8) Services not compatible with fluorocarbon elastomers are the exception. These materials are not listed under
“O-Rings, Diaphragms and Resilient Seats,” except for services where fluorocarbon elastomers are the only
suitable materials for these components. The term “fluorocarbon elastomers” refers to FFKM, FKM, TFE/P, or
PTFE/E in Table IV-B, but not FMQ or FVMQ (Fluoro-silicone Rubber). FFKM (Perfluoroelastomers), and PTFE
backed elastomers (PTFE/Elastomer) are suitable for all services in Table III. FKM and TFE/P are not resistant
to concentrated nitric acid (G.T. 60%), oleum, concentrated caustic, ammonia, many amines (except “GF”), steam,
Freon. Peroxide cured FKM (grades GF or GLC) may be used in amines or ammonia, but not amine cured FKM.
(9) Nitrile Rubber (NBR) is not suitable for gasoline or sour fluids.

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 28 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

Table IVA - Metallic Material Designations

Alloy Designation Description UNS No.

17-4 17-4 PH Stainless Steel S17400

20 Alloy 20 N08020

304 AISI 304 Stainless Steel S30400

304L AISI 304L Stainless Steel S30403

316 AISI 316 Stainless Steel S31600

316L AISI 316L Stainless Steel S31603

410 AISI 410 Stainless Steel S41000

4140 AISI 4140 Steel G41400

600 Alloy 600 N06600

625 Alloy 625 N06625

6NM 13 Cr-4Ni Stainless Steel (Grade CA6NM) (3) J91540

718 Alloy 718 N07718

800 Alloy 800 N08800

825 Alloy 825 N08825

A286 Precipitation - Hardening Stainless Steel S66286

B-2 Alloy B-2 N10665

Br Bronze (See Note 1 and Table IV-B) -

C-4 Alloy C-4 N06455

C-276 Alloy C-276 N10276

CI Gray Cast Iron -

CS Carbon Steel -

CrMoll 1-1/4 Cr 1/2 Mo Steel J11872

CrMo22 2-1/4 Cr 1 Mo Steel J21890

CrMo5 5 Cr-1/2 Mo Steel J42045

D2 Ductile Ni Resist F43000

DI Ductile Iron -

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 29 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

Table - IVA (Cont'd)

Alloy Designation Description UNS No.

Elg Alloy R30003 R30003

ENP Electroless Nickel Plating -

G-3 Alloy G-3 N06985

LTS Carbon Steel for Low Temperature Applications (2) -

M400 Alloy 400 N04400

MK500 Alloy K-500 N05500

R30035 Alloy R30035 R30035

N50 XM-19 (ASTM A479) / F XM-19 (ASTM A182) S20910

NiRe Ni Resist Type 1 F41000

NiRe2 Ni Resist Type 2 F41002

SSS Special Stainless Steels (See Table IV-B)

St12 Alloy 12 R30012

St6 Alloy 6 R30006

TC Tungsten Carbide -

Ti Titanium (Unalloyed) -

X750 Alloy X750 N07750

Notes:
(1) Copper alloys shall have 16% or less zinc when used in corrosive aqueous service.
(2) Reference: 04-SAMSS-003.
(3) CA6NM Stainless Steel may be substituted for Type CA15 (AISI 410) for cast valve components.

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 30 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

Table IVB - Special Stainless Steels and Copper Base Alloys

Alloy Generic/Popular
Designation Name Form UNS No. Spec or Grade

SSS Duplex Stainless (1)

(A) Wrought S32550 A240

(A) Wrought S32750 A276, 182
(A) Wrought S32760 A276, 182
(A) Cast J93380
(B) Wrought S31803 A182-F51
(B) Cast J92205 A890-4A
CD4MCu (C) Cast J93370 A743, A890
CD4MCu (B) Cast DIN 9.4462
(B) Cast J93345 A890-2A
(B) Cast A890-3A
(A) Cast J93404 A890-5A

SSS Superaustenitic

(A) Wrought N08366 B675, B690

(A) Wrought B475, B649
(A) Wrought N08926 A240, A479
(A) Wrought S31254 A182, A312
(A) Cast A351 CKMCuN
(B) Wrought S20910 A479-XM19
(B) Wrought N08904 B625, B649
(B) Wrought N08700 B672, B599
(B) Cast A743-CN3M

BR Copper Alloys

Aluminum Bronze Cast All B148 (2)

Aluminum Bronze Wrought C60600 B169
Aluminum Bronze Wrought All B150
Valve Bronze Cast C92200 B61
Ounce Metal Cast C83600 B62
Copper-Silicon Alloy Wrought C65100 B98
Copper-Silicon Alloy Wrought C65500 B98
Copper Alloy Cast C84400 B584

Notes:
(1) SSS alloy rankings for pitting and crevice corrosion resistance are shown in parentheses next to the name, (A)
being best. SSS alloys for seawater or sour brine service must be those ranked (A).
(2) ASTM B148 components for seawater service shall receive a temper anneal heat treatment per ASTM B601
Condition “TB”.

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 31 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

Table IVC - Plastics and Elastomers

Material
Designation Generic Names Chemical Name

PLASTICS

PVC PVC Polyvinyl Chloride

CPVC Chlorinated PVC Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride

PE Polyethylene Polyethylene

PP Polypropylene Polypropylene

PVDF Polyvinylidenefluoride

FEP Fluorinated Ethylene-Propylene

ETFE Ethylene-Tefrafluoro Ethylene

ECTFE Ethylene-Chlorotrifluoro-Ethylene

CTFE Chlorotrifluoro-Ethylene

PTFE Polytetrafluoro-Ethylene

Nylon Polyamide

PVDC Polyvinylidene Chloride

CPE Chlorinated polyethylene

PPS Polyphenylene Sulfide

PEEK Polyetheretherketone

ELASTOMERS

NR Natural Rubber Poly-Isoprene

CR Chloroprene Poly-Chloroprene

EPDM Ethylene-Propylene

IIR Butyl Rubber GR-1 Isobutylene Isoprene

NBR Nitrile Rubber Butadiene-Acrylonitrile

CSM Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene

T, OT, EOT Polysulfide Rubber Polysulfide

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 32 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use

 Document Responsibility: Valves Standards Committee SAES-L-108
Issue Date: 16 February 2022
Next Planned Revision: 16 February 2027 Selection of Valves

Table - IVC (Cont'd)

Material
Designation Generic Names Polymer

ELASTOMERS (Cont'd)

CO, ECO, GECO Epichlorohydrin Rubber Epichlorohydrin

EU, AU Polyurethane Rubber Polyurethane (ester-, ether-based)

MQ,VMQ,PMQ,PVMQ Silicone Rubber Polysiloxane

FMQ, FVMQ(1)* Fluorosilicone Rubber Polyfluorosiloxane

FLUOROCARBON-ELASTOMERS

FFKM Perfluoroelastomer

FKM Vinylidene Fluoride-Hexafluoropropylene

TFE/P Tetrafluoroethylene-Propylene

PTFE/Elastomer PTFE with any elastomer backing Poly-tetrafuoro-ethylene/Elastomer

Note:
* FMQ and FVMQ are NOT categorized as fluorocarbon elastomer.

© Saudi Arabian Oil Company, 2022 Page 33 of 33

Saudi Aramco: Company General Use