Armstrong Pressure Reducing Valve Guide
Pressure reducing valves (PRVs) lower high-pressure steam to a usable, controlled downstream pressure. Selecting the right PRV ensures accurate pressure control, energy efficiency, and reliable operation. Armstrong offers externally piloted and direct-operated designs to match every application.
Why Accurate Pressure Reduction Matters
Steam is often generated at high pressure for efficient distribution, then reduced to lower pressures at the point of use. Accurate pressure reduction ensures process equipment operates at the correct pressure, prevents over-pressurization of downstream equipment, and can recover energy by using flash steam from condensate at each pressure stage.
GP-2000K — Externally Piloted PRV
The Armstrong GP-2000K is a high-performance externally air-piloted, diaphragm-operated pressure reducing valve. It is an ideal choice when set-point changes are frequent and access to the PRV is difficult.
Key Specifications
- Accuracy: ±1% of pressure set point from 5% to 100% of flow
- Turndown ratio: 20:1
- Body material: Ductile Iron, ASTM A536
- Maximum allowable pressure: 300 psig (20 bar) for K-1 and K-6; 185 psig (13 bar) for K-3
- Maximum temperature: 450°F (232°C)
- Working parts: Hardened stainless steel
- Diaphragms: Double stainless steel
- Service: Single-seated for dead-end service
Installation
The GP-2000K comes totally assembled and requires no field installation except the downstream sensing line and air connection. In-line repairability means the valve can be serviced without removal from the piping.
GP-2000K Models
| Model | Connection | Max Pressure | Sizes |
|---|---|---|---|
| GP-2000K-1 | Screwed NPT | 300 psig | ½″ to 3″ |
| GP-2000K-3 | Flanged ANSI 150# | 185 psig | 2½″ to 8″ |
| GP-2000K-6 | Screwed NPT | 300 psig | For specific applications |
GD Series — Direct-Operated PRVs
For simpler applications where the self-contained design of a direct-operated valve is preferred, Armstrong’s GD Series provides reliable pressure reduction. Direct-operated valves use the downstream pressure acting on a diaphragm or piston to modulate the valve position—no external pilot or power source required.
Externally Piloted vs Direct-Operated
| Feature | GP-2000K (Piloted) | GD Series (Direct) |
|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | ±1% | Wider proportional band |
| Turndown | 20:1 | Lower |
| Best for | Critical process, variable loads | Simple, constant loads |
| Complexity | Pilot + sensing line | Self-contained |