Valve Maintenance: Tips and Tricks for Prolonging Valve Life
Valves are a vital component in various industries, but they often operate in harsh environments which can lead to problems. Repairing or replacing large valves can be a troublesome and expensive process, making daily maintenance and upkeep crucial. In this article, we’ll explore some essential tips for valve maintenance to help you avoid unnecessary trouble.
Valve Storage and Inspection
Proper storage and regular inspection are essential for maintaining valves. Here are some tips to follow:
- Store valves in a dry and well-ventilated room, and block both ends of the passage to prevent dirt and debris from entering.
- Regularly check valves that have been stored for a long time, and clean them to remove dirt and debris. Apply anti-rust oil to the processing surface to prevent corrosion.
- After installation, conduct regular inspections to check for wear and tear on the sealing surface, trapezoidal threads of the stem and stem nut, and packing. If the packing is damaged, replace it promptly. After overhauling and assembling the valve, perform a sealing performance test.
Maintenance During Valve Grease Injection
Valve maintenance before and after welding is crucial for the proper functioning and longevity of valves. Here are some tips to follow when injecting grease:
- Ensure that the correct amount of grease is injected. Lack of lubricant can cause the sealing surface to wear faster, while excessive grease injection causes waste. Calculate the sealing capacity of different valves based on their size and type, and then inject a reasonable amount of grease.
- Monitor the pressure during grease injection. Regular changes in pressure can lead to seal leakage or failure, blocked grease injection ports, hardened inner grease, or locked seal rings. If the pressure is too low, the injected grease mostly flows into the bottom of the valve cavity, which is common in small gate valves. If the pressure is too high, check the grease injection nozzle for blockages and use cleaning fluid to soften failed sealing grease before injecting new grease. Different seal types and materials require different grease injection pressures.
By following these maintenance tips, you can prolong the service life of your valves and prevent unnecessary trouble. Valve maintenance may seem simple, but it requires attention to detail and careful execution. Remember, proper maintenance will protect your valves and ensure they function normally for years to come.
