Lagedrukssystemen

Lagedrukssystemen is a term used in Scandinavian engineering to describe systems that regulate and monitor pressure at multiple locations within an installation. The aim is to achieve controlled pressure distribution, enhance safety, and improve process performance. Typical implementations are found in pipelines and piping networks with several branches, hydraulic or pneumatic actuation systems, and large process vessels where uniform pressure or local pressure limits are important.

Principle and architecture. These systems rely on multi-point sensing, feedback control, and actuation. Pressure sensors are placed at key points to monitor local pressure. A control unit, which can be centralized or distributed, compares measured pressures to target setpoints and computes corrective actions. Actuators such as pressure regulators, relief valves, variable-speed pumps, or dampers adjust flow or bleed-off to restore or maintain desired pressures. Some designs use passive components to dampen transients, while others employ active modulation to manage demand changes and supply disturbances.

Components. Core elements include pressure sensors, a control unit, actuators (valves, regulators, pumps, dampers), piping and fittings, energy and power supplies, and communication or electrical subsystems. Safety devices such as relief valves and alarm systems are integral to prevent excursions beyond design limits.

Operation and design considerations. Setpoints are defined for each location, and the control strategy must account for system dynamics, potential interactions between zones, and transient disturbances. Proper design addresses stability, surge effects, energy efficiency, maintenance needs, and reliability of sensors and actuators.

Applications. Lagedrukssystemen are used in water distribution, process industries, oil and gas facilities, HVAC systems, and large civil or marine installations to prevent overpressure, reduce pressure surges, balance loads, and comply with safety and regulatory requirements.

See also. Hydraulic control systems, Pneumatic systems, Process control, Surge analysis, Safety relief devices.