MSS SP-134-2012

Valves for Cryogenic

Service, including
Requirements for
Body/Bonnet Extensions

Standard Practice
Developed and Approved by the
Manufacturers Standardization Society of the
Valve and Fittings Industry, Inc.
MSS ®
127 Park Street, NE
Vienna, Virginia 22180-4602 www.mss-hq.org
Phone: (703) 281-6613
Fax: (703) 281-6671
E-mail: standards@mss-hq.org
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE SP-134

This MSS Standard Practice was developed under the consensus of the MSS Technical Committee 114 and the MSS
Coordinating Committee. The content of this Standard Practice is the resulting efforts of competent and experienced
volunteers to provide an effective, clear, and non-exclusive standard that will benefit the industry as a whole. This
MSS Standard Practice describes minimal requirements and is intended as a basis for common practice by the
manufacturer, the user, and the general public. The existence of an MSS Standard Practice does not in itself preclude
the manufacture, sale, or use of products not conforming to the Standard Practice. Mandatory conformance to this
Standard Practice is established only by reference in other documents such as a code, specification, sales contract, or
public law, as applicable. MSS has no power, nor does it undertake, to enforce or certify compliance with this
document. Any certification or other statement of compliance with the requirements of this Standard Practice shall
not be attributable to MSS and is solely the responsibility of the certifier or maker of the statement.

“Unless indicated otherwise within this MSS Standard Practice, other standards documents
referenced to herein are identified by the date of issue that was applicable to this Standard
Practice at the date of approval of this MSS Standard Practice (see Annex B). This Standard
Practice shall remain silent on the validity of those other standards of prior or subsequent dates of
issue even though applicable provisions may not have changed.”

By publication of this Standard Practice, no position is taken with respect to the validity of any potential claim(s) or
of any patent rights in connection therewith. MSS shall not be held responsible for identifying any patent rights.
Users are expressly advised that determination of patent rights and the risk of infringement of such rights are entirely
their responsibility.

In this Standard Practice, all text, notes, annexes, tables, figures, and references are construed to be essential to the
understanding of the message of the standard, and are considered normative unless indicated as “supplemental”. All
appendices, if included, that appear in this document are construed as “supplemental”. Note that supplemental
information does not include mandatory requirements.

U.S. customary units in this Standard Practice are the standard; (SI) metric units are for reference only.

This document has been substantially revised from the previous 2010 edition. It is
suggested that if the user is interested in knowing what changes have been made,
that direct page by page comparison should be made of this document and that of
the previous edition.

Non-toleranced dimensions in this Standard Practice are nominal and, unless otherwise specified, shall be considered
“for reference only”.

Excerpts of this Standard Practice may be quoted with permission. Credit lines should read ‘Extracted from
MSS SP-134-2012 with permission of the publisher, Manufacturers Standardization Society of the Valve and
Fittings Industry'. Reproduction and/or electronic transmission or dissemination is prohibited under
copyright convention unless written permission is granted by the Manufacturers Standardization Society of
the Valve and Fittings Industry Inc. All rights reserved.

Originally Approved: February 2005

Originally Published: July 2006
Current Edition Approved: December 2011
Current Edition Published: May 2012

MSS is a registered trademark of Manufacturers Standardization Society of the Valve and Fittings Industry, Inc.

Copyright © 2012 by
Manufacturers Standardization Society
of the
Valve and Fittings Industry, Inc.
Printed in U.S.A.

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MSS STANDARD PRACTICE SP-134

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION PAGE

1 SCOPE ..................................................................................................................................................... 1
2 DEFINITIONS ........................................................................................................................................ 1
3 CLASS/SIZE DESIGNATION ............................................................................................................... 2
4 MATERIALS .......................................................................................................................................... 2
5 DESIGN .................................................................................................................................................. 2
6 GATE AND GLOBE VALVES .............................................................................................................. 3
7 BALL & BUTTERFLY VALVES .......................................................................................................... 4
8 EXTENSION LENGTH .......................................................................................................................... 4
9 FABRICATION ...................................................................................................................................... 4
10 PRODUCTION PRESSURE TESTING ................................................................................................. 4
11 LOW TEMPERATURE CRYOGENIC TESTING ................................................................................ 5

TABLE

1 Body/Bonnet Extension Length, U.S. Customary Units ......................................................................... 6

2 Body/Bonnet Extension Length, SI Metric Units .................................................................................... 6
A1 Allowable Seat Leakage Rates for Cryogenic Closure Tests ................................................................ 14
A2 Helium Test Pressures ........................................................................................................................... 14

FIGURE

1 Typical Outside Screw and Yoke Cryogenic Globe Valve ..................................................................... 7

2 Typical Outside Screw and Yoke Cryogenic Gate Valve ....................................................................... 8
3 Typical Cryogenic Ball Valve ................................................................................................................. 9
4 Typical Cryogenic Butterfly Valve ....................................................................................................... 10
A1 Typical Test Set-Up ............................................................................................................................... 14

ANNEX

A Low Temperature Cryogenic Testing .................................................................................................... 11

B Referenced Standards and Applicable Dates ......................................................................................... 15

APPENDIX

X1 Guidance for Stem Strength Calculations .............................................................................................. 16

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MSS STANDARD PRACTICE
VALVES FOR CRYOGENIC SERVICE,
INCLUDING REQUIREMENTS FOR BODY/BONNET EXTENSIONS
1. SCOPE
1.1 This Standard Practice covers
requirements for material, design, dimensions,
fabrication, non-destructive examination and
pressure testing of stainless steel and other
alloy cryogenic service valves with
body/bonnet extensions. Requirements for
check valves for cryogenic service, which may
not require body/bonnet extensions, are also
covered. This Standard Practice applies to
cryogenic gate, globe, butterfly, ball, and
check valves, and may be used in conjunction
with other valve-specific standards; including
the following identified in this Standard
Practice as a parent standard:
ASME B16.34, Valves – Flanged,
Threaded, and Welding End
API 600, Steel Gate Valves – Flanged
and Butt-welding Ends, Bolted Bonnets
API 602, Steel Gate, Globe, and Check
Valves for Sizes NPS 4 (DN 100) and
Smaller for the Petroleum and Natural
Gas Industries
API 603, Corrosion-resistant, Bolted
Bonnet Gate Valves – Flanged and Butt-
welding Ends
API 608, Metal Ball Valves – Flanged,
Threaded and Welding Ends
API 609, Butterfly Valves: Double
Flanged, Lug- and Wafer-type
API 6D, Specification for Pipeline
Valves (identical to ISO 14313)
1.2 The requirements in this Standard
Practice are not intended to supersede or
replace requirements of a parent valve standard.
1.3 This Standard Practice includes
additional construction detail requirements
specifically related to valves, including
body/bonnet extensions essential for
cryogenic applications.
1
SP-134
2. DEFINITIONS
2.1 General Definitions given in MSS SP-
96 apply to this Standard Practice.
2.2 Cryogenics The science of materials at
extremely low temperatures.
2.3 Cryogenic Fluid A gas that can be
changed to a liquid by removal of heat by
refrigeration methods to a temperature at
-100 °F (-73 °C) or lower.
2.4 Cryogenic Temperature For this
Standard Practice a temperature range of
-100°F (-73 °C) to -425 °F (-254 °C) is cryogenic.
2.5 Cold Box An enclosure that insulates a
set of equipment from the environment
without the need for insulation of the
individual components inside the cold box.
2.6 Cold Box Extension A valve
body/bonnet extension section that removes
the operating mechanism of the valve outside
the cold box and is required to be longer than
a non-cold box extension.
2.7 Non-Cold Box Extension A
body/bonnet extension that is used for valves
that are normally individually insulated.
2.8 Parent Valve Standard Endorses the
ASME B16.34 construction requirements but
has additional construction detail requirements
exceeding or not addressed by ASME B16.34.
2.9 Gas Column That portion of
body/bonnet extension that allows for the
formation of an insulating column of vapor.
2.10 Double Block and Bleed Valve Valve
with two seating surfaces that when in the
closed position, blocks flow from both valve
ends when the cavity between the seating
surfaces is vented through a bleed connection
provided in the valve body.
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE SP-134

3. CLASS/SIZE DESIGNATION The body/bonnet extension shall be constructed

of the same ASME B16.34 Table 1 group
3.1 Pressure Rating Designation Class, material as the valve body group material or a
followed by a dimensional number, is the similar ASME B16.34 group material with the
designation for pressure-temperature ratings. same cryogenic material compatibility as the
Standardized designations are as follows: valve body.
150 300 400 600 4.3 Unless otherwise specified in the
Class
900 1500 2500 4500 purchase order internal wetted parts shall
be made of a material that is suitable for
3.2 Size NPS indicates “Nominal Pipe Size” the specified cryogenic temperature and has
(U.S customary). A standard size identification a corrosion resistance that is comparable
number, not necessarily an actual dimension. with the body material.
The (SI) metric-based equivalent is called DN or
Nominal Diameter/"diametre nominel". NPS is 4.4 Packing and gasket materials in direct
related to the reference DN (used in many contact with the service fluid shall be capable
international standards). The typical relationship of operating at temperatures from +150 °F
is as follows: (+65 °C) to the lowest cryogenic temperature
of the service fluid specified in the purchase
NPS DN order.
1/4 8 4.5 When pipe or non-standard wall tube
3/8 10 material is used for constructing body/bonnet
1/2 15 extensions, the material shall be seamless.
3/4 20
1 25 5. DESIGN
11/4 32 5.1 The requirements of ASME B16.34,
11/2 40 Section 2.1.6, shall be met for weld fabricated
2 50 body/bonnet extensions.
21/2 65
3 80 5.2 Valves shall have a body/bonnet
extension integrally cast/forged or consisting
4 100
of a pipe or non-standard wall tube that
For NPS ≥ 4, the related DN = 25 distances the stem packing and valve
multiplied by the NPS number. operating mechanism from the cryogenic fluid
in the valve body/bonnet extension that might
4. MATERIALS
otherwise damage or impair the function of
4.1 Materials in contact with cryogenic fluid these items. The body/bonnet extension shall
or exposed to cryogenic temperatures shall be be of sufficient length to provide an insulating
suitable for use at the minimum temperature gas column that prevents the packing area and
specified by the purchase order. ASME B31.3, operating mechanism from freezing.
Table A1 lists mechanical properties for
Check valves do not require extensions except
materials at temperatures as low as
when they are designed for stop-check service.
-425 °F (-254 °C).
Stop check valve extensions shall follow this
4.2 Body, bonnet, body/bonnet extension, Standard Practice rules for cryogenic globe
and pressure retaining bolting shall be of valves.
materials listed in ASME B 16.34, Table 1 The purchaser shall provide the body/bonnet
and also listed in ASME B31.3, Table A1 extension length when Table 1 or Table 2
for the cryogenic valve design temperature. extension lengths are not adequate.

2
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE
5.2.1 The cast/forged extension, pipe or
non-standard wall tube thickness shall take
into account pressure stresses as well as
operating torque, stem thrust and bending
stresses induced by handwheels, gears and
power actuators.
5.2.2 The body/bonnet extension shall
meet the minimum wall thickness
requirements of ASME B16.34, Section
6.1.3, for the applicable pressure class of the
valve body unless a greater wall thickness is
specified by the parent valve specification. If
the body/bonnet extension is made from a
different ASME B16.34, Table 1, material
than the valve body and has an ASME
B16.34 pressure-temperature rating less than
the valve body, then the extension thickness
must be increased proportionately to meet the
pressure-temperature rating of the body at all
applicable temperatures.
5.3 Valves shall be designed for operating at
temperatures from +150 °F (+65 °C) to the
lowest cryogenic temperature of the service
fluid.
5.4 The pressure rating of the valve at
service temperatures below -20 °F (-29 °C)
shall not exceed the ASME B16.34 pressure
rating at -20 °F (-29 °C) to 100 °F (38 °C) for
the applicable valve body material and
appropriate Class designation.
5.5 Body/Bonnet Extensions
5.5.1 Body/Bonnet Extensions should be
used primarily for temperatures colder than
-100 °F (-73 °C). When specified by the
purchaser this Standard Practice may also be
used for valves with body/bonnet extensions
for low temperature applications for
temperatures warmer than -100 °F (-73 °C).
5.5.2 Stem to extension tube diametrical
clearance should be minimized to help reduce
convective heat losses.
5.5.3 For cold box applications, valves with
extended body/bonnets shall be capable of
operating with the stem oriented from 150 to
900 above the horizontal plane.
3
SP-134
5.5.4 Valves with extended body/bonnets in
cryogenic gas service shall be capable of
operating in any stem orientation unless
otherwise limited by the manufacturer.
5.6 Valve Stems The design of globe,
gate, and quarter-turn valves having extended
stem lengths, as required by this Standard
Practice, introduces stem buckling and angle
of twist design inputs that shall be considered
in the valve design.
Specifically for stem buckling design
considerations, a number of different model
equations, based on stem guiding end designs
(fixed, pinned, or combination thereof), are
available to the designer for consideration.
For moderate length stems where combined
compression/buckling failure mode may
occur, there are many empirical equations
that can be used. These multiple model and
empirical equations are a deterrent to
standardization of stem design methods.
Appendix X1 is offered as a guideline for stem
design, which may be used by manufacturers
that subscribe to the models and empirical
equations used in the Appendix.
5.6.1 Stem calculations are a requirement of
this Standard Practice and the manufacturer
shall utilize the guidance of Appendix XI or
other stem model derivatives to arrive at such
calculations.
6. GATE & GLOBE VALVES
6.1 Gate valves shall be provided with a
means for allowing any pressure increase in
the body/bonnet extension cavity to be vented
to the high pressure side of the closed
obturator, such as a vent hole on the higher
pressure side of the wedge, unless otherwise
specified in the purchase order.
Double block and bleed valves shall be vented
using some form of a pressure relief device
that does not violate the dual seating
requirement of the valve.
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE
6.2 A flow arrow indicating flow direction
for uni-directional valves shall be cast,
stamped, or etched on the valve body.
Alternatively, a flow arrow tag may be
attached by welding to the valve body.
6.3 Backseats, when utilized, may be at the
bottom or at the top of the body/bonnet
extension. Backseats provided at the bottom of
a bonnet extension may cause excessive
increase of extension cavity pressure. Valves
with bottom backseats shall be designed with a
provision to protect from excessive cavity
pressure buildup.
7. BALL & BUTTERFLY VALVES
7.1 Ball valves shall be provided with a
provision to vent the body and bonnet
extension cavity to the upstream side of the
closed ball, either by drilling a bleed hole in
the ball or by other means of protection
against over-pressurization of the body/bonnet
extension cavity.
Double block and bleed valves shall be vented
using some form of a pressure relief device
that does not violate the dual seating
requirement of the valve.
7.2 A flow arrow indicating flow direction
shall be cast, stamped, or etched on the valve
body. Alternatively, an arrow tag may be
attached by welding to the valve body. For bi-
directional ball valves, including block and
bleed, a flow arrow indicating flow direction
is not required.
8. EXTENSION LENGTH
8.1 Minimum extension lengths for rising
stem gate/globe valves and for quarter-turn
valves shall be per Tables 1 and 2, unless
otherwise specified in the purchase order.
8.2 Cold box valve dimensions are for
valves with body/bonnet extensions on valves
in cryogenic liquid/vapor service, which have
installation orientation restrictions. See
Section 5.5.3.
4
SP-134
8.3 Non-cold box valve dimensions are for
those valves with body/bonnet extensions for
valves in cryogenic gas or liquid service, with
the orientations of Sections 5.5.3 or 5.5.4 as
applicable.
9. FABRICATION
9.1 Valves fabricated by welding shall be
done in accordance with ASME B16.34,
Section 2.1.6.
9.2 Welding procedures, welders, and
welding operators, shall be qualified under the
provisions of ASME Boiler and Pressure
Vessel Code, Section VIII, Division 1. Welding
requirements of the parent standard shall be
met when specified in the purchase order.
9.3 The weld configuration of the bonnet
extension tube to body/bonnet connections
may be full penetration Vee groove, partial
penetration Vee groove or fillet type. Full
strength threaded joints with seal welds can
also be used.
9.4 Non-destructive examination of welds
shall be performed per ASME Boiler and
Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, Division 1
to achieve a joint efficiency as required by
ASME B16.34, Section 2.1.6.
Weld quality requirements of the parent
standard shall be met when specified in the
purchase order.
10. PRODUCTION PRESSURE TESTING
10.1 Prior to testing, each valve shall be
cleaned and degreased as specified in the
purchase order.
10.2 Each valve shall be shell and closure
tested as required by ASME B16.34. Each valve
shall be tested in accordance with the parent
standard when specified in the purchase order.
10.3 Following ASME B16.34 final testing,
each valve shall be dried of all water test
solution trapped in the valve.
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE SP-134

10.4 Each fabricated body/bonnet extension

shall be subjected to a supplemental
pneumatic testing with inert gas at 80-100 psig
(5.5-6.9 barg) for a minimum duration of 60
seconds. No visible bubble leakage is allowed
through welds or the pressure boundary as
determined by testing under water, with an
applied foaming solution, or with a mass leak
detection device.

11. LOW TEMPERATURE CRYOGENIC

TESTING

11.1 Cryogenic qualification or production

testing, when specified for an item or a sample
of an item by the purchase order or agreement
between purchaser and manufacturer, shall be
performed per the requirements of Annex A.

5
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE SP-134

TABLE 1
Body/Bonnet Extension Length, U.S. Customary Units
Dimensions are in inches.
Size Rising-Stem Valves Quarter-turn Valves
(NPS) Cold Box Non-Cold Box Cold Box Non-Cold Box
1/2 17 12 16 7.5
3/4 17 12 16 7.5
1 17 12 16 7.5
1
1 /2 21 14 20 8.5
2 21 16 20 10
3 24 18 22 13
4 26 22 24 14
6 30 24 24 17
8 34 27 26 18
10 40 32 28 25
12 45 36 32 28
Dimensions – Centerline of valve to top of stuffing box.
See Section 8 and Figures 1, 2, 3, and 4.

TABLE 2
Body/Bonnet Extension Length, SI (Metric) Units
Dimensions are in millimeters.
Size Rising-Stem Valves Quarter-turn Valves
(DN) Cold Box Non-Cold Box Cold Box Non-Cold Box
15 425 300 400 200
20 425 300 400 200
25 425 300 400 200
40 500 350 500 225
50 500 400 500 250
80 600 450 550 300
100 650 550 600 350
150 750 600 600 425
200 900 700 650 450
250 1000 800 700 600
300 1150 900 800 700
Dimensions – Centerline of valve to top of stuffing box.
See Section 8 and Figures 1, 2, 3, and 4.

6
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE SP-134

PART NAMES

1. Handwheel Nut
2. Identification Plate
3. Handwheel
4. Stem Nut
5. Gland
6. Gland Bolting
7. Yoke
8. Packing
9. Stem
10. Bonnet Extension
11. Bonnet Bolting
12. Bonnet
13. Gasket
14. Disc Nut
15. Disc
16. Body

FIGURE 1
Typical Outside Screw and Yoke Cryogenic Globe Valve
(For Illustration Only)

7
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE SP-134

PART NAMES

1. Handwheel Nut
2. Identification Plate
3. Handwheel
4. Stem Nut
5. Gland Bolting
6. Gland
7. Packing
8. Stem
9. Bonnet Extension
10. Bonnet Bolting
11. Bonnet
12. Gasket
13. Seat Ring
14. Gate
15. Body

FIGURE 2
Typical Outside Screw and Yoke Cryogenic Gate Valve
(For Illustration Only)

8
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE SP-134

PART NAMES

1. Body
2. Bonnet
4. Stem
5. Ball
6. Thrust Washer
7. Stem Bushing
9. Seat
11. Packing Flange
12. Gland Bushing
13. Packing Ring
15. Stud
16. Nut
19. Gasket
33. Handle
46. Spring
55. Bushing
56. Hex Head Caps Screw
63. Packing Washer
90. Extension

FIGURE 3
Typical Cryogenic Ball Valve
(For Illustration Only)

9
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE SP-134

PART NAMES

1. Gear Actuator
2. Handwheel
3. Handwheel Pin
4. Mounting Bracket
5. Mounting Bolt
6. Upper Journal Bearing
7. Packing
8. Housing Extension
9. Stem
10. Stop Bearing
11. Thrust/Journal Bearing
12. Disk
13. Body
14. Packing Stud
15. Packing Bolt
16. Packing Follower

FIGURE 4
Typical Cryogenic Butterfly Valve
(For Illustration Only)

10
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE
ANNEX A
Low Temperature Cryogenic Testing
A1. CRYOGENIC VALVE TEST FLUIDS
A1.1 Cryogenic valves constructed of
materials suitable for use in temperatures in the
-150 °F to -425 °F (-100 °C to -255 °C) range
(examples: Group 2 and Group 3 materials of
ASME B16.34) and requiring qualification or
production testing by the purchase order shall
be tested using liquid nitrogen as the immersion
and cool down test fluid.
A1.2 Cryogenic valves constructed of alloy
steel materials suitable for use in the -100°F to
-150 °F (-73 °C to -100 °C) range (examples:
A352 LC2 and A352 LC3, Group 1 materials
of ASME B16.34) and requiring qualification
or production testing by the purchase order
shall be tested using a immersion liquid
acceptable for the cryogenic temperature
(examples: heat transfer fluid or ethylene
glycol), which shall be cooled by control flow
through coils of liquid nitrogen or mechanical
refrigeration or by addition of cooling media
directly to the immersion fluid. Alternately the
valve body may be cooled in a closed
insulated box using nitrogen vapors or
mechanical refrigeration methods without the
use of an immersion liquid.
A2. PRELIMINARY TEST PREPARATIONS
A2.1 The valve or valves shall be pre-tested
in accordance with parent valve standard at
ambient temperature.
A2.2 The valve or valves shall be purged
with clean dry nitrogen or air to remove any
remaining moisture.
A2.3 Unless otherwise agreed with the
purchaser, testing shall be conducted on 10%
(minimum of one piece) of each valve type,
class, and size contained on the purchase order.
A2.4 All instruments (flow meters, pressure
gauges, torque wrenches, etc.) shall be
calibrated. Helium sniffing devices shall be
calibrated as per the instrument manufacturer’s
recommendation.
11
SP-134
A3. TEST EQUIPMENT
A3.1 The valve to be tested to Section A1.1
requirements shall be supported in an
insulated stainless steel tank. The ends of the
valve shall be blanked off with stainless steel
blank flanges, plugs, or plates, to contain
pressure during the test. Small diameter 18-8
or copper tubing shall be connected to each
end of the valve. Tank, flange, plugs, plates,
and fittings used for testing shall be 18-8
austenitic stainless steel compatible with
liquid nitrogen at -320 °F (-195 °C).
Similar requirements apply for valves tested to
Section A1.2 requirements except materials
for flanges, plugs, tubing or plates may be
made of a material meeting the test
temperature requirements.
During testing, gate, globe, ball and butterfly
stem orientation shall be vertical. Check
valves (piston, ball, swing, dual plate, etc.)
may be tested in either vertical or horizontal
disc position except for gravity closure check
valves, which shall be tested in a vertical disc
position.
A3.2 At least one (1) thermocouple shall be
attached to the valve body. A second
thermocouple shall be attached to the valve
packing area. A third thermocouple shall be
attached to the outlet of the pressure tubing.
The packing and pressure tubing
thermocouples should be insulated from
direct exposure to the liquid nitrogen to avoid
false readings. See Figure A1 for typical test
set-up.
A4. PURGING
A4.1 Gate and globe valves shall be partially
opened and ball and butterfly valves shall be
fully opened prior to immersion in liquid
nitrogen per Section A1.1 or other media per
Section A1.2.
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE
A4.2 A helium low pressure (15 psig min.)
(1 barg min.) shall be maintained in the valve
during immersion with a purge started as cool-
down progresses.
A4.3 The valve shall be lowered into an
insulated tank and liquid nitrogen, per Section
A1.1 or other media per Section A1.2, shall be
allowed to fill the insulated tank around the
valve, to a level approximately 1 in. (25.4
mm) above the body/bonnet bolting or
body/bonnet welded connection.
A4.4 After the valve has stabilized at the
test temperature, the helium purge shall be
turned off and the valve cycled open and
closed three (3) times.
A4.5 To safeguard against inaccurate
readings during testing, the helium purge flow
through the valve prior to subsequent
pressurization shall be verified to be zero.
A4.6 Low Pressure Seat Test
A4.6.1 The valve shall be pressurized with 80
psig (5.5 barg) helium in the open position.
A4.6.2 The valve shall be closed for a
minimum of ten minutes to stabilize the test
pressure.
A4.6.3 The valve body and packing test
temperatures shall be recorded. The leaking
gas temperature shall be measured by test
outlet tubing thermocouple (see Section
A3.2) and recorded. After five minutes, the
detected leakage rate shall be recorded and
then converted to an actual leakage rate, as
applicable, by multiplying the detected
leakage rate by correcting factor in
accordance with the Boyle-Charles rule. This
calculation shall correct the measured leakage
to standard conditions of 14.7 psig
(1.01 barg) at 60 °F (15.6 °C).
Alternately, an electronic mass flow leakage
device may be used and when calibrated to
standard conditions the temperature need not
be recorded nor the correction factor be
applied. The standard conditions leak rate
shall be recorded.
12
SP-134
A4.6.4 The maximum allowable leakage
rates shall not exceed those as listed in
Table A1.
A4.6.5 Repeat the sequence described in
Sections A4.6.1 through A4.6.4 on each seat
for bi-directional valves.
A4.7 High Pressure Seat Test
A4.7.1 Following the low pressure seat test
and with valve in the open position, gradually
increase the helium pressure until the
pressure reaches 80 psig (5.5 barg), then
close the valve and continue pressurization
until the valve reaches the test pressure listed
in Table A2. The valve shall be closed for a
minimum of ten minutes to stabilize the
pressure.
A4.7.2 The valve body and packing helium
test temperatures shall be recorded. The
leaking gas temperature shall be measured by
test outlet tubing thermocouple (see Section
A3.2) and recorded. After five minutes, the
detected leakage rate shall be recorded and
then converted to an actual leakage rate, as
applicable, by multiplying the detected
leakage rate by a correction factor in
accordance with the Boyle-Charles rule. This
calculation shall correct the measured leakage
to standard conditions of 14.7 psig
(1.01 barg) at 60 °F (15.6 °C).
Alternately an electronic mass flow leakage
device may be used and when calibrated to
standard conditions the temperature need not
be recorded nor the correction factor be
applied. The standard conditions leak rate
shall be recorded.
A4.7.3 The maximum allowable leakage
rates shall not exceed those listed in Table A1.
A4.7.4 Repeat the test sequence as
described in Sections A4.7.1 through A4.7.3
on each seat for bi-directional valves.
A4.8 Shell Test
A4.8.1 Shell test leakage shall be measured
with a sniffing device sensitive only to
helium.
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE SP-134

A4.8.2 Shell test shall be performed while
the valve is still at cryogenic temperatures
from previous seat testing.
A4.8.3 Valve shall be partially opened and
pressurized to a test pressure of 200 psig
(13.8 barg) minimum.
A4.8.4 After the shell pressure has
stabilized, the valve shall be lifted from the
liquid nitrogen for access by the helium-
sniffing device.
A4.8.5 Any sustained leakage in excess of
1 x 10-4 std cc/sec or 50 PPM (v) shall be
cause for rejection during a minimum 10
second sniffing duration.
A4.8.6 Packing leakage that can be
corrected by packing adjustment shall not be
cause for rejection.
A4.9 Ambient Low Pressure Seat Test
A4.9.1 Remove valve from test apparatus
and allow valve to warm up to ambient
temperature.
A4.9.2 Perform a low pressure seat test
using 80 psig (5.5 barg) nitrogen gas. Repeat
test on opposite seat for bi-directional valves.
A4.9.3 Acceptable leakage rate shall be in
accordance with parent valve testing standard.
A4.10.5 When testing with an inert gas,
each valve shell shall be subjected to a 200
psig (13.8 barg) pressure test for a minimum
duration of 10 minutes. No visible bubble
leakage is allowed through the pressure
boundary as determined by testing under
water, or with an applied foaming solution.
A4.10.6 If the stem packing shows signs of
leakage and requires adjustment, the pressure
shall be bled off, the packing tightened and
the valve re-pressurized for ten minutes
before resuming the test.
A5. CORRECTIVE ACTION
Valves, which fail to meet the test
requirements of this Annex, shall be
reviewed for root cause, corrective action
taken, and re-tested. Any corrective action
modifications made on the test valve shall
also be made on the balance of valves
represented by the test valve.
A6. TEST REPORT
The test report shall include the valve
information, tester’s name, and date of test,
temperatures, pressures, and durations.
Pressure-temperature charts shall be
provided, as required by a purchase order.

A4.10 Ambient Shell Test

A4.10.1 With the valve half open, and ports

sealed, pressurize the valve with 200 psig
(13.8 barg) helium or other inert gas.

A4.10.2 Shell test pressure shall be

maintained for ten minutes.

A4.10.3 When utilizing a sniffing device,

which is sensitive only to helium, the entire
body, bonnet and gasket area shall be
examined.

A4.10.4 At any time during the test, a

sustained reading of greater than 1 x 10-4 std
cc/sec or 50 PPM (v) shall be cause for
rejection during a minimum 10 second
sniffing duration.

13
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE SP-134

TABLE A1 TABLE A2
Allowable Helium Seat Leakage Rates Helium Test Pressures
for Cryogenic Closure Tests High pressure
Allowable Leakage Class Size* Seat Test **
(scc/minute/NPS) (psig) (barg)
Gate, Globe, 150 < NPS 24 230 15.8
Seat Test
Butterfly, Ball
Check 300 < NPS 24 600 41.4
Soft Metal
Seat Seat 600 < NPS 18 1200 82.7

Low pressure seat 800 < NPS 8 1600 110.3

25 50 100
Test (80 psig) 900 < NPS 8 1800 124.1
High pressure 1500 < NPS 6 1800 124.1
Seat test for Class 150, 75 150 300
*Test pressures for larger size valves shall
300 & 600 (Table A2) be limited to 300 psig (20 barg).
High pressure seat **Test pressures for butt-weld valves tested
Test for Class 800, 900 100 200 400 with a test fixture, shall be limited to 200
& 1500 (Table A2) psig (14 barg).

FIGURE A1
Typical Test Set-Up

14
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE SP-134

ANNEX B
Referenced Standards and Applicable Dates

This Annex is an integral part of this Standard Practice and is placed after the main text for convenience.

Standard Name Description

ASME; ASME/ANSI
B16.34-2009 Valves – Flanged, Threaded, and Welding End; w/ Supplement (2010)
B31.3-2010 Process Piping
BPVC-VIII, Div. 1-2010 Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, Division 1, Rules for
Construction of Pressure Vessels; w/ Addenda Reprint (2011)

API; ANSI/API
6D-2008 (ISO 14313:2007) Specification for Pipeline Valves; w/ Addendum 1 (2009) and Addendum 2
(2011), Errata 1 (2008), Errata 2 (2008), Errata 3 (2009), Errata 4 (2010),
Errata 5 (2010), and Errata 6 (2011) (Identical to ISO 14313:2007, Petroleum
and Natural Gas Industries Pipeline Transportation Systems)
600-2009 Steel Gate Valves – Flanged and Butt-welding Ends, Bolted Bonnets;
w/ Errata 1 (2009)
602-2009 Steel Gate, Globe, and Check Valves for Sizes NPS 4 (DN 100) and Smaller
for the Petroleum and Natural Gas Industries
603-2007 Corrosion-resistant, Bolted Bonnet Gate Valves – Flanged and Butt-welding Ends
608-2008 Metal Ball Valves – Flanged, Threaded and Welding Ends
609-2009 Butterfly Valves: Double Flanged, Lug- and Wafer-type

MSS
SP-96-2011 Guidelines on Terminology for Valves and Fittings

The following organizations appear in the above list:

ANSI American National Standards Institute, Inc.
25 West 43rd Street, Fourth Floor
New York, NY 10036-7406

ASME American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME International)

Three Park Avenue
New York, NY 10016-5990

API American Petroleum Institute

1220 L Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20005-4070

ISO International Organization for Standardization

1, ch. de la Voie-Creuse, Case postal 56
CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland

MSS Manufacturers Standardization Society of the Valve and Fittings Industry, Inc.
127 Park Street, NE
Vienna, VA 22180-4602

15
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE SP-134

APPENDIX X1
Guidance for Stem Strength Calculations

This Appendix is supplementary and does not include mandatory requirements.

X1.1 Valve Stems

X1.1.1 Gate and globe valve stems shall have an area and length to diameter (or radius of gyration) ratio that
precludes compression stress yield failure or elastic buckling while under compressive loading. Section 8.1
establishes a minimum extension length dimension that impacts on the stem’s length/diameter (or radius of
gyration) ratio.

X1.1.2 The following equations shall be used to determine the critical slenderness ratio of globe or gate
valve stems:

L 2CE
=π Equation #1
r Sy

Or for round solid stems with r = d/4

L π 2CE
= Equation #2
d 4 Sy

Where:
L/r = slenderness ratio for stems made from various stem cross section geometries,
L/d = slenderness ratio for stems made from round bar,
L = unsupported length of a uniformly straight stem span between the upper stem guide and
stem-to-disc interface (see Figures 1 and 2),
d = stem diameter,
r = minimum radius of gyration for stem cross section, where r = I/A,
E = modulus of elasticity of the stem material,
Sy = yield strength of stem material,
I = minimum moment of inertia about axis of bending through stem’s transverse area centroid,
A = area of stem’s traverse area,
C = constant depending on the valve stem end support conditions.

Suggested C = 2 for a stem of a globe or gate valve that has a stem guided disc/gate.
Suggested C = 4 for a stem of a globe or gate valve that has a body guided disc/gate.
Other C’s may be used at manufacturer’s option if representative of the design of their stem end
supports.

16
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE SP-134

APPENDIX X1 (continued)
Guidance for Stem Strength Calculations

X1.1.3 Using the physical dimensions of the stem intended to be used in the globe or gate valve the stem’s
actual L/r or L/d ratio shall be determined. The actual ratio shall be compared with that determined by
calculation from Equation #1 or Equation #2. If the actual stem L/r or L/d ratio is greater than that
determined by Equation #1 or Equation #2 the potential failure mode is buckling. Use the methods in
Section X1.1.4.1 to calculate the critical load and safe load requirements. If the actual stem L/r or L/d ratio
is less than that determined by Equation #1 or Equation #2, the potential failure mode is combined
compression/buckling. Use the methods in Section X1.1.4.2 to calculate the critical load and safe load
requirements.

X1.1.4 Critical and Safe Load Calculations

X1.1.4.1 If the stem’s actual L/d or L/r is greater than that calculated by Equation #1 or Equation #2 the
stem’s failure mode would be buckling. The stem’s critical load to cause buckling and safe operating
closing force shall be calculated using Equation #3 and Equation #4:

Cπ 2 EA
Fc = Equation #3 (Euler’s Equation)
(L / r )2
Or for round solid stems with r = d/4

Cπ 2 EA
Fc = Equation #4 (Euler’s Equation for Round Stems)
16( L / d ) 2

Where:
Fc = critical load to cause buckling.
Other symbols are as defined in Section X1.1.2.

The Safe Stem Load shall incorporate a factor of safety and be calculated as follows:

Fc
FS = Equation #5
N
Where:
Fs = safe stem force,
Fc = critical load to cause buckling as determined from Equation #3 or Equation #4,
N = factor of safety, commonly used = 2.

If the actual closing stem force is less than the critical as determined by Equations #3 or Equation #4 the stem
will be acceptable for use and not expected to fail by buckling, but an appropriate factor of safety shall be
applied by Equation #5 to insure a safe load determination. If the actual stem load is greater than the critical
load (Fc), than the stem’s cross sectional dimensions shall be increased. Equation #3 or Equation #4 can be
used to determine the stem required cross section dimensions.

Stem dimensional changes will change the stem’s L/r or L/d ratio, which may move the critical load (Fc)
calculations to the Section X1.1.4.2 method.

17
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE SP-134

APPENDIX X1 (continued)
Guidance for Stem Strength Calculations

X1.1.4.2 If the stem’s actual L/r or L/d ratio is less than that calculated from Equation #1 or Equation #2
the stem stress failure mode would be based on combined compression/buckling. The stem’s critical load
and safe operating closing force shall be calculated using Equations #6 or #7 and #8:

 S y ( L / r )2 

Fcr = S y A 1 −  Equation #6 (J. B. Johnson Formulae)
 4Cπ 2 E 
 

Or for round solid stems

 4 S y ( L / d )2 

Fcr = S y A 1 −  Equation #7 (J.B. Johnson Formulae for Round Stems)
 Cπ 2 E 
 
Where:
Fcr = critical load to cause combined compression/buckling stem failure,
Other symbols are as defined in Section X1.1.2.

The safe stem load shall be calculated as follows:

Fcr
Fs = Equation #8
N

Where:
Fs = safe stem force,
N = factor of safety, commonly used = 2.

If the actual closing stem force is less than the safe stem force determined by Equation #6 or Equation #7 the
stem will be acceptable for use and not expected to fail by combined compression/buckling stress. If the actual
stem load is greater than the critical load (Fc) than the stem’s cross sectional dimensions shall be increased.
Equation #6 or Equation #7 can be used to determine the stem required cross section dimensions. Increased
stem dimensional changes will change the stem’s L/r or L/d ratio, but for moderate length stems, the method
of Section X1.1.4.2 can be used to validate final stem design.

X1.1.4.3 For stem unsupported spans that fit other column end restraint models, the manufacturer may
develop L/r or L/d equations for determination of the critical load and safe load incorporating a suggested
factor of safety (N) equal to two (2). For stems not of uniform diameter, the manufacturer shall execute
more extensive calculations or tests to assure that stem buckling or combined compression/buckling is
prevented.

X1.1.5 Extended stems in quarter-turn valves shall be proportioned so that, under torsional loading, the stem
torque is limited by the stem angle of twist and as a result also limited by the critical shear stress of the stem
material. Stem diameters and stem lengths shall be proportioned such that maximum applied torque meets the
requirements of Sections X1.1.6 and X1.1.7.

18
MSS STANDARD PRACTICE SP-134

APPENDIX X1 (continued)
Guidance for Stem Strength Calculations

X1.1.6 Quarter-turn valve stem length and diameter combinations that limit stem torsional deflection or
angle of twist to π/90 radians (2-degrees) as determined by the following equation:

θ = GJ
TL
≤ 90
π
Equation #9

Where:
θ = angle of twist, radians,
T = maximum stem design torque,
L = length of stem from point of torque application to obturator attachment (see Figures 3 and 4),
G = modulus of rigidity = E/2(1+μ),
E = modulus of elasticity of the stem material,
μ = Poisson’s ratio,
J = polar moment of inertia of round stem.

X1.1.7 The stem torque shall not be greater than that which could cause the stem material to exceed its
shear stress limit at the outer fiber as calculated by the following:

πd S3τ max
TS ≤ Equation #10 (for Solid Round Stem)
16 N
Where:
Ts = the manufacturer’s designated maximum stem torque,
τmax = the stem material shear stress limit,
ds = the stem diameter,
N = 2, a factor of safety.

X1.1.8 Valves with soft seats or a soft closing member insert to be used with flammable vapors or liquids
shall be designed in such a way that there is electric continuity between the body and stem of the valve. Such
a design must be qualified by testing the maximum electrical resistance, which shall not exceed 10 ohms
across the discharge path. To test for continuity, a new dry valve shall be cycled at least five times, and the
resistance measured using a DC power source not exceeding 12 volts.

X1.1.9 Valves in flammable fluid service shall be of fire-safe design, and in case the valve is equipped with
soft-seats or a soft-closing member, the design shall be successfully fire tested as per API 607, “Fire Test for
Quarter-turn Valves and Valves Equipped with Nonmetallic Seats”.

19
 Listing of MSS Standard Practices (as of May, 2012)
TITLE
SP-6-2012 Standard Finishes for Contact Faces of Pipe Flanges and Connecting-End Flanges of Valves and Fittings
SP-9-2008 Spot Facing for Bronze, Iron and Steel Flanges
SP-25-2008 Standard Marking System for Valves, Fittings, Flanges, and Unions
SP-42-2009 Corrosion Resistant Gate, Globe, Angle and Check Valves with Flanged and Butt Weld Ends (Classes 150, 300 & 600)
SP-43-2008 Wrought and Fabricated Butt-Welding Fittings for Low Pressure, Corrosion Resistant Applications (Incl. 2010 Errata Sheet)
SP-44-2010 Steel Pipeline Flanges (incl. 2011 Errata Sheet)
SP-45-2003 (R 2008) Bypass and Drain Connections
SP-51-2012 Class 150LW Corrosion Resistant Flanges and Cast Flanged Fittings
SP-53-1999 (R 2007) Quality Standard for Steel Castings and Forgings for Valves, Flanges, and Fittings and Other Piping Components – Magnetic Particle
Examination Method
SP-54-1999 (R 2007) Quality Standard for Steel Castings and Forgings for Valves, Flanges, and Fittings and Other Piping Components – Radiographic Examination Method
SP-55-2011 Quality Standard for Steel Castings for Valves, Flanges, Fittings, and Other Piping Components – Visual Method for Evaluation of
Surface Irregularities (ANSI-approved American National Standard)
SP-58-2009 Pipe Hangers and Supports – Materials, Design, Manufacture, Selection, Application, and Installation (incorporates content of SP-69, 77, 89, and 90)
(ANSI-approved American National Standard)
SP-60-2012 Connecting Flange Joints between Tapping Sleeves and Tapping Valves
SP-61-2009 Pressure Testing of Valves
SP-65-2012 High Pressure Chemical Industry Flanges and Threaded Stubs for Use with Lens Gaskets
SP-67-2011 Butterfly Valves
SP-68-2011 High Pressure Butterfly Valves with Offset Design
SP-69-2003 Pipe Hangers and Supports – Selection and Application (ANSI-approved American National Standard)
SP-70-2011 Gray Iron Gate Valves, Flanged and Threaded Ends
SP-71-2011 Gray Iron Swing Check Valves, Flanged and Threaded Ends
SP-72-2010a Ball Valves with Flanged or Butt-Welding Ends for General Service
SP-75-2008 Specification for High-Test, Wrought, Butt-Welding Fittings
SP-78-2011 Gray Iron Plug Valves, Flanged and Threaded Ends
SP-79-2011 Socket Welding Reducer Inserts
SP-80-2008 Bronze Gate, Globe, Angle, and Check Valves
SP-81-2006a Stainless Steel, Bonnetless, Flanged Knife Gate Valves
SP-83-2006 Class 3000 Steel Pipe Unions Socket Welding and Threaded
SP-85-2011 Gray Iron Globe & Angle Valves, Flanged and Threaded Ends
SP-86-2009 Guidelines for Metric Data in Standards for Valves, Flanges, Fittings, and Actuators (Incl. 2011 Errata Sheet)
SP-87-1991 (R 1996 – Reinstated 2011) Factory-Made Butt-Welding Fittings for Class I Nuclear Piping Applications
SP-88-2010 Diaphragm Valves
SP-91-2009 Guidelines for Manual Operation of Valves
SP-92-2012 MSS Valve User Guide
SP-93-2008 Quality Standard for Steel Castings and Forgings for Valves, Flanges, Fittings, and Other Piping Components – Liquid Penetrant
Examination Method
SP-94-2008 Quality Standard for Ferritic and Martensitic Steel Castings for Valves, Flanges, Fittings, and Other Piping Components – Ultrasonic
Examination Method
SP-95-2006 Swage(d) Nipples and Bull Plugs
SP-96-2011 Guidelines on Terminology for Valves and Fittings
SP-97-2012 Integrally Reinforced Forged Branch Outlet Fittings – Socket Welding, Threaded, and Buttwelding Ends
SP-98-2012 Protective Coatings for the Interior of Valves, Hydrants, and Fittings
SP-99-2010 Instrument Valves
SP-100-2009 Qualification Requirements for Elastomer Diaphragms for Nuclear Service Diaphragm Valves
SP-101-1989 (R 2001) Part-Turn Valve Actuator Attachment – Flange and Driving Component Dimensions and Performance Characteristics
SP-102-1989 (R 2001) Multi-Turn Valve Actuator Attachment – Flange and Driving Component Dimensions and Performance Characteristics
SP-104-2012 Wrought Copper Solder-Joint Pressure Fittings
SP-105-2010 Instrument Valves for Code Applications
SP-106-2012 Cast Copper Alloy Flanges and Flanged Fittings: Class 125, 150, and 300
SP-108-2012 Resilient-Seated Cast Iron Eccentric Plug Valves
SP-109-2012 Welded-Fabricated Copper Solder-Joint Pressure Fittings
SP-110-2010 Ball Valves Threaded, Socket-Welding, Solder Joint, Grooved and Flared Ends (incl. 2010 Errata Sheet)
SP-111-2012 Gray-Iron and Ductile-Iron Tapping Sleeves
SP-112-2010 Quality Standard for Evaluation of Cast Surface Finishes – Visual and Tactile Method. This SP must be used with a 10-surface, three dimensional Cast
Surface Comparator, which is a necessary part of the standard. Additional Comparators available separately.
SP-113-2012 Connecting Joints between Tapping Machines and Tapping Valves
SP-114-2007 Corrosion Resistant Pipe Fittings Threaded and Socket Welding Class 150 and 1000 (ANSI-approved American National Standard)
SP-115-2010 Excess Flow Valves, 1¼ NPS and Smaller, for Fuel Gas Service
SP-116-2011 Service-Line Valves and Fittings for Drinking Water Systems
SP-117-2011 Bellows Seals for Globe and Gate Valves
SP-118-2007 Compact Steel Globe & Check Valves – Flanged, Flangeless, Threaded & Welding Ends (Chemical & Petroleum Refinery Service)
SP-119-2010 Factory-Made Wrought Belled End Pipe Fittings for Socket-Welding
SP-120-2011 Flexible Graphite Packing System for Rising Stem Valves – Design Requirements
SP-121-2006 Qualification Testing Methods for Stem Packing for Rising Stem Steel Valves
SP-122-2012 Plastic Industrial Ball Valves
SP-123-1998 (R 2006) Non-Ferrous Threaded and Solder-Joint Unions for Use with Copper Water Tube
SP-124-2012 Fabricated Tapping Sleeves
SP-125-2010 Gray Iron and Ductile Iron In-Line, Spring-Loaded, Center-Guided Check Valves
SP-126-2007 Steel In-Line Spring-Assisted Center Guided Check Valves
SP-127-2001 Bracing for Piping Systems Seismic-Wind-Dynamic Design, Selection, Application
SP-128-2012 Ductile Iron Gate Valves
SP-129-2003 (R 2007) Copper-Nickel Socket-Welding Fittings and Unions
SP-130-2003 Bellows Seals for Instrument Valves
SP-131-2010 Metallic Manually Operated Gas Distribution Valves
SP-132-2010 Compression Packing Systems for Instrument Valves
SP-133-2010 Excess Flow Valves for Low Pressure Fuel Gas Appliances
SP-134-2012 Valves for Cryogenic Service, including Requirements for Body/Bonnet Extensions
SP-135-2010 High Pressure Knife Gate Valves
SP-136-2007 Ductile Iron Swing Check Valves
SP-137-2007 Quality Standard for Positive Material Identification of Metal Valves, Flanges, Fittings, and Other Piping Components
SP-138-2009 Quality Standard Practice for Oxygen Cleaning of Valves & Fittings
SP-139-2010 Copper Alloy Gate, Globe, Angle, and Check Valves for Low Pressure/Low Temperature Plumbing Applications
SP-140-2012 Quality Standard Practice for Preparation of Valves and Fittings for Silicone-Free Service
SP-141-2012 Multi-Turn and Check Valve Modifications
SP-142-2012 Excess Flow Valves for Fuel Gas Service, NPS 1½ through 12
SP-143-2012 Live-Loaded Valve Stem Packing Systems
(R YEAR) Indicates year reaffirmed • Price List Available Upon Request • MSS is an ANSI-accredited American National Standards developer

Manufacturers Standardization Society of the Valve and Fittings Industry, Inc.

127 Park Street, NE, Vienna, VA 22180-4620 • (703) 281-6613 • Fax # (703) 281-6671
MSS SP-134-2012