I would assume that they are manually actuated. It sounds as if these valves are used to balance a system (like process heating or cooling). If that's the case, the valves are probably small and without the added weight of a cantilevered actuator, there may not be much risk. I would still think that most vendors would recommend hardfacing (stellite, etc.) the guide surfaces; however, that would probably be the extent of it. The other issue that may be of concern is that you plan to leave the valves and not operate them. As with any valve, if they are not stroked on regularly (i.e. every 6 months or so), they will have the tendency to bind no matter what the valve orientation. Since the valve you refer to is manually operated and is used in more of a throttling application than a true control application, it won't make a big difference whether it is installed shaft horizontal or shaft vertical. It is, however, a good idea to check with the manufacturer as others have mentioned. In addition, if it is installed shaft horizontal, it is good practice to install carbon bushings above and below the stem seal in the packing gland to ensure good stem alignment. Also, the valve should be stroked through its full travel a few times per year, otherwise it may not move when you return to adjust it."control valves should not be oriented vertically and, unless otherwise specified, the vendor most likely assumes horizontal orientation"I2I: I realize this is a bit off topic, but is this statement referring to butterfly control valves (power operated)? I have never seen a globe valve with a power-operated actuator installed shaft horizontal, such an arrangement would surely lead to side loading on the stem seal as well as wear on the trim. My interpretation of Pennpiper's post is that CV's need to be specifically designed for shaft horizontal orientation, otherwise the default assumption is to install them shaft vertical. Obviously butterfly valves are different due to the rotary motion, the type of actuator and how it is coupled to the valve.

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