Stainless Steel Valve Maintenance And Care Tips
Posted on: 11 August 2018
There are many industrial uses for stainless steel valves for sale. Unfortunately, some business leaders neglect the type of care and maintenance that these valves require. Without regular maintenance, the lifespan of the valves can be shortened, and the risk of a valve failure will increase.
Regularly Clean The Valves
Cleaning the valves may not seem like it would provide many benefits. However, this can remove much of the dirt and grime that may accumulate on the valve. This debris will prevent the valve from being able to be easily turned, and it can even cause the valve to become completely jammed.
Replace The Valves If They Corrode
Individuals will often assume that stainless steel will always be resistant to corrosion. However, it can be possible for this metal to develop corrosion as it ages -- especially if there isn't enough chromium oxide present. This is particularly true when acidic substances may get on the valve, as these materials can severely degrade the corrosion-resistant coating.
If you notice that your valves are showing visible signs of corrosion, they should be replaced as soon as possible, as this could indicate that the valves are structurally weakened. To limit the risk of needing to use a valve that is compromised, it can be a good investment to keep extra valves in storage so that damaged ones can be quickly replaced. When storing the valves, they should be kept in a climate-controlled area to limit the amount of moisture exposure they experience while being stored.
Check The Valves For Leaks
Leaks can be a serious problem for valves that are regulating potentially hazardous or flammable substances. A leaking valve will often be the result of a failed seal. It might be possible to replace this seal, but it will usually be a better option to simply replace the valve. This is due to the potential damage that could've occurred in the interior of the valve as a result of the fluid leaking.
Determine Whether Lubrication Is Needed
Depending on the design of the valve, it may require lubrication. Without lubrication, the friction caused by turning the valve can severely damage the valve as well as making it much more difficult to turn. When applying lubrication to your valves, you will need to use the lubrication that is recommended by the valve manufacturer. Otherwise, the lubricant may quickly degrade as a result of the friction, or it may leave behind a residue that can degrade the performance of the valve.
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