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May 4, 2025| | 0 Comment

API 607 vs API 608: Key Differences and Applications

# 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 process industries.

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 is particularly important for applications where valves may be exposed to fire conditions.

The key aspects of API 607 include:

  • Testing procedures for fire resistance

  • Performance requirements during and after fire exposure

  • Evaluation criteria for leakage rates

  • Applicability to soft-seated quarter-turn valves

What is API 608?

API 608 is a standard that covers metal ball valves with flanged or butt-welding ends for the petroleum and natural gas industries. The full title is “Metal Ball Valves – Flanged, Threaded, and Welding End.” This standard focuses on design, materials, and testing requirements for ball valves.

The key aspects of API 608 include:

  • Design and construction requirements

  • Material specifications

  • Pressure-temperature ratings

  • Testing and inspection procedures

  • Marking and documentation requirements

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
Primary Focus Fire safety performance General valve construction and performance
Valve Types All quarter-turn valves with nonmetallic seats Specifically metal ball valves
Testing Requirements Fire resistance testing Pressure testing, material testing, etc.
Application Critical for fire-prone environments General industrial applications

Applications of API 607 and API 608 Valves

API 607 Valve Applications

API 607 compliant valves are typically used in:

  • Oil refineries

  • Chemical processing plants

  • Offshore platforms

  • Any location with high fire risk

  • Critical safety systems

API 608 Valve Applications

API 608 compliant valves are commonly found in:

  • Pipeline systems

  • Petroleum production facilities

  • Natural gas processing plants

  • General industrial fluid systems

  • High-pressure applications

Choosing Between API 607 and API 608

The choice between API 607 and API 608 depends on your specific requirements:</