Maintaining Valves The Right Way

Are you looking to repair a damaged valve? Look no further than this blog post, because we have the tricks and tips to help you maintain valves efficiently.

Different types of valves, such as ball, purge, toggle, and quick exhaust, are used for various industrial applications, so their maintenance is key to ensure their longevity and smooth industrial working operations.

Although valves are of different types, there are some simple ways to maintain them. Here are a few things to keep in mind to avoid frequent repairs:

Cleaning

Regular cleaning of valves is essential to maintain their quality and safety, as dust particles can hinder the smooth flow of water, oil or gas.

There are several manufactured cleaning agents specifically formulated for certain valve parts made of metal or rubber. These cleaning agents can help prevent damage caused by corrosive reactions.

You can also clean non-metal parts using warm water, alcohol or steam to kill any bacteria or dirt. There are certain gas cleansing sprays that work well for metallic parts, and use gas to get rid of dust, dirt or grease. However, whether metal or non-metal, make sure to wipe the a valve with a clean cloth before treating it with sprays or cleaning solutions.

Prior to installation, valves must be thoroughly inspected to make sure they do not contain any contaminants or in-transit damage. To be on the safe side, dismantle the valve or for a thorough inspection.

Lubricants

Lubricate the valves with oil or grease to boost their efficiency and functionality levels.

Storing

Valves should be stored in a clean, safe area to protect them from harmful dust and weather particles. They must be covered in a protective sheet and not be exposed to the atmosphere until installed.

Leakage

Leakage is the most common problem related to valves. It can cause considerable damage, and often result in environmental hazards, in case of toxic leaks. So, it is critical to act quickly as a small leak can turn into a major problem.

As soon as you detect a leak, determine its exact cause and then refer to the manual for corrective measures. In addition to the valve, inspect the connectors, pipes, and other parts.

Often, the solution could be as simple as tightening a nut or bolt.  Other times, however, a more comprehensive solution is required. Either way, regular inspection is key to ensure leakages do not cause substantial damage.

Follow the Manufacturer’s manual

Valves should be installed, maintained and repaired according to the procedures in a manufacturer’s technical manual. If you face any trouble with a valve, refer to a manual immediately to ascertain how to fix the issue. Furthermore, keep a set of appropriate tools ready with you at all times. It is better to be prepared and save time, than to be looking around for tools when a leakage or any other problem arises.

You can follow the tips mentioned above to ensure your valves last for years. However, if you need any more information regarding valve maintenance, be sure to check out SEALEXCEL – India’s leading manufacturer of instrumental pipe valves and fittings. Visit their site today to get in touch, and they will be happy to help!