# API 607 vs API 608: Key Differences and Applications
Introduction
When it comes to industrial valves, standards play a crucial role in ensuring safety, reliability, and performance. Two important standards in the valve industry are API 607 and API 608. While both are developed by the American Petroleum Institute (API), they serve different purposes and apply to different types of valves. Understanding the differences between API 607 and API 608 is essential for engineers, procurement specialists, and maintenance personnel working in industries where fire safety and valve performance are critical.
What is API 607?
API 607 is a standard that specifies fire testing requirements for quarter-turn valves and actuators. The full title is “Fire Test for Quarter-turn Valves and Valves Equipped with Nonmetallic Seats.” This standard evaluates the ability of a valve to maintain its sealing integrity after exposure to fire.
Key aspects of API 607 include:
- Applies to soft-seated quarter-turn valves (ball, butterfly, plug valves)
- Tests valve performance during and after fire exposure
- Includes external leakage and operational capability tests
- Certifies valves for 30 minutes of fire exposure
What is API 608?
API 608 is titled “Metal Ball Valves – Flanged, Threaded, and Welding End.” This standard covers design, materials, dimensions, testing, and inspection requirements for metal ball valves used in petroleum and natural gas industries.
Key aspects of API 608 include:
- Applies to floating and trunnion-mounted ball valves
- Covers valves from NPS 1/2 through NPS 24
- Specifies pressure-temperature ratings
- Includes requirements for design, materials, and testing
Key Differences Between API 607 and API 608
| Feature | API 607 | API 608 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Fire testing for quarter-turn valves | Design and manufacturing of metal ball valves |
| Valve Types | Ball, butterfly, plug valves with soft seats | Metal ball valves only |
| Primary Focus | Fire safety performance | General design and performance |
| Testing Requirements | Fire exposure and leakage tests | Pressure, shell, and seat tests |
| Certification | Fire-safe performance | General quality and dimensional compliance |
Applications of API 607 and API 608 Valves
API 607 Valve Applications
API 607 certified valves are typically used in:
- Petrochemical plants
- Oil refineries
- Gas processing facilities
- Offshore platforms
- Any application where fire safety is critical
API 608 Valve Applications
API 608 compliant valves are commonly found in:
- Pipeline systems
- Production facilities
- Transmission stations
- Storage terminals
- General process applications
Choosing Between API 607 and API
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