The Legacy of the GE 354A1107P001 / Laurence BFCY800003 Butterfly Valve
Type: Wafer, Pneumatic-Operated, Stainless Steel, 8-Inch
Butterfly valves have been key to industrial fluid and gas control since the mid-20th century. They are compact, lightweight, and quick to operate. These qualities made them the preferred choice for high-volume flow control in power plants, marine systems, and process industries.
The model in focus — General Electric (GE) part number 354A1107P001, also listed as Laurence (RG) Company Inc. part number BFCY800003 — is a high-performance wafer-style butterfly valve. It is designed for cooling and sealing air systems in LM/FM turbine operations.
Laurence BFCY800003 Butterfly Valve
Historical Context and Design Heritage
Wafer-style butterfly valves became popular in the 1960s, replacing heavier gate valves in many applications. By the 1980s, stainless steel construction was standard in high-temperature and corrosive environments.
The GE 354A1107P001 / Laurence BFCY800003 valve meets ASTM F1098-87, a specification first issued in 1987 and reaffirmed in 2010. This design has been in service for over 35 years, proving its durability. Many units in turbine air systems have operated for decades, needing only seal and actuator servicing.
Technical Specifications
- Body Design: Wafer style for low weight and easy installation.
- Nominal Size: 8-inch, suited to medium-to-large air flow control.
- Connection: Flange-mounted for secure fitting.
- Body Material: 316 stainless steel for excellent corrosion resistance.
- Trim: Stainless steel for long wear life.
- Softgoods/Seals: Specialised materials to prevent leakage.
- Additional Features: Bleed assembly and extraction-type build for turbine sealing and cooling.
Pneumatic Actuator — Function and Advantages
The valve uses a pneumatic actuator, which opens or closes the disc with compressed air.
Why Pneumatic Actuation?
- Fast Response: Adjusts air flow quickly to maintain sealing pressure or cooling rates.
- High Reliability: Resists overheating and electrical faults in hot environments.
- Fail-Safe Options: Can be set to “fail-open” or “fail-closed” if air supply fails.
- Remote Operation: Allows accurate control from a central panel.
Application in Cooling and Sealing Air Systems
In LM/FM gas turbines, sealing air stops hot combustion gases from reaching sensitive parts. Cooling air keeps turbine blades and casings at safe temperatures. This pneumatic-actuated valve controls that air flow, helping maintain efficiency and protecting components.
Longevity and Service Life
Production dates vary, but the design lineage dates back to the late 1980s. Many valves still work after 20–30 years in marine and power plant use, showing the strength of the design.
The GE 354A1107P001 / Laurence BFCY800003 butterfly valve is more than a flow control device. It reflects decades of turbine engineering refinement. With stainless steel construction, tight sealing, and responsive pneumatic control, it remains a trusted component in critical air management systems.