Analysing experimental data on Howell Bunger valves

Howell Bunger valves are used widely as control structures and as emergency release devices because of their capacity to control the flow discharge and dissipate surplus energy. This paper, through the analysis of a large set of experimental data, deals with the main features of these valves, summarizing some observations which may help in improving the valve design. The main conclusions are based on the valve data collected during the experimental tests carried out jointly by the research teams of a primary valve manufacturer (ATB Riva Calzoni) and Politecnico di Bari. The results are compared with relevant literature .