With Pressure Independent Characterized Control Valve (PICCV), every system lives up to its full potential – saving time, money, and other precious resources.
It’s a fact. Efficient operation of a flow system cannot occur without effective flow balancing and control. System instability and even minor performance anomalies will rob owners of comfort and efficiency throughout the life of the system.
Pressure independent technology helps owners maximize the energy savings of variable flow pumping systems while addressing their unique control challenges.
PICCVs directly control the water flow required by the coil and is not affected by pressure fluctuations in the system. The valves are selected based on the GPM requirements of the coil without the need for Cv calculations. By precisely controlling the flow, pressure independent valves eliminate the need for balancing valves, thus reducing the installation and balancing cost. The biggest benefit for the owner comes in the form of energy savings by eliminating overflow thru the coil.
Pressure independent valves stabilize variable flow systems for a lifetime of efficiency and worry-free, automatic balancing.
Everyone agrees that variable flow pumping systems have the potential to save facilities significant pump energy cost. But all too often these savings quickly disappear due to complex flow issues. With pressure independent control technology only a single valve is required to maintain proper flow through each circuit. Each valve can be shipped from the factory pre-set for each circuit, so there is no additional balancing required. The system performs perfectly from start-up. And if a facility adds new circuits as a result of expansion, the flow control of existing circuits remains intact – so no rebalancing is required. Pressure independent valves can be used to regulate flow through air handlers, heating and cooling heat exchangers, fan coil units, unit ventilators and VAV re-heat coils.
How It Works
Pressure Independent Characterized Control Valves (PICCV) combine a differential pressure regulator with a 2-way characterized control valve to supply a specific flow for each set degree of ball opening – regardless of system pressure fluctuations. The valve performs the function of a balancing valve and control valve in one unit. Therefore, the flow characteristic and operation of the valve is not distorted when system variables change.
As flow passes through the valve, a uniquely designed differential pressure regulator moves according to the change in pressure above and below it. The regulator assembly adjusts to the differential pressure increasing and decreasing the orifice opening so the differential pressure across the characterized control valve stays constant. The valve maintains a constant exiting flow despite any and all changes in system activity that results in pressure variation (i.e. system expansion and or redesign).
New Offerings with Exceptional Value
Belimo released the PICCV with the LRB24-SA actuator which offers a complete package; a 
modulating balancing valve, flow verification orifice and pressure independent control valve in an economic package. Flow orifice (-F models) allow independent differential pressure gauge verification of flow.
The proportional control LRB24-SA actuator features a simple push button flow setter to field set required flow. When the coil design flow is less than the factory default setting adjustments are made instantly without tools. A perfect solution for custom flow needs.
- Factory set to max flow position – must be field adjusted to achieve required flow.
- Factory default flow setting is equal to the maximum GPM rating of the valve body.
- Push button flow setter illuminates when max flow is achieved providing visual feedback to operators.
- Industry standard flow orifice option regulates flow setpoint regardless of DP changes.
Also now available is the PICCV with the KRB24-3 actuator which offers a floating point control and is an economical solution for smaller spaces without compromising functionality or efficiency. If features a fine tooth gear wheel to field set required flow.
The PICCV with the KR offers simple flow customize feature and when factory furnished with a flow orifice users have an independent device to validate flow. Once the flow is set, the PICCV takes over precisely controlling flow and eliminating coil overflow providing system efficiencies and energy savings.
- Factory default flow setting is equal to the maximum GPM rating of the valve body.
- Quick field set balancing with tab locking mechanism when coil flow is less than factory default setting.
- Position indicator provides visual feedback of flow to operators.