Valves are an integral part of many industries, and their proper maintenance and servicing are essential for longevity and efficiency. We interviewed Kalle Kauppila, Production Manager at Maper Oy, about how our customers can optimize the performance and durability of their valves.
When Should a Valve Be Serviced?
Valve leakage is the most common, and the only, reason for maintenance or repair. It can be caused by an internal or external leak. Although the basic principle of valves is to be maintenance-free, leaks due to seal wear are possible.
Regular maintenance, such as replacing seals and balls as needed, is the key to valve longevity and efficiency. Maper offers seal kits and, if required, guidance on maintenance procedures.
Identifying Valve Maintenance Needs
Valve stiffness or movement hesitation can be signs that maintenance is needed. Maper valves are fully serviceable, making them practical in many environments.
“If the valve handle and movement are jammed, the ball, seals, or both should be replaced. The ball should only be replaced with replacing the seals, as there is usually a scratch on it that has already worn the seals. The seals alone can be replaced. You can disassemble and service the valve on the maper, and replace the body part. For example, the valve ends are welded to the pipework in a welded pipeline. In this case, it is particularly convenient that the valve body alone can be removed and replaced,”
explains Kalle Kauppila.
The same principles apply to servicing different types of valves, even though they may look very different from one another.
The Most Common Mistake When Servicing Valves
Tightening the spindle unnecessarily is a common mistake that can damage a valve. Kauppila recommends avoiding unnecessary adjustments. The basic principle is not to touch the valve after it has been installed. At their best, valves can serve customers for decades.
“A couple of weeks ago, a customer called asking for new seals for a valve installed in the 1990s. This is not at all unusual,”
says Kauppila.
Selecting Valves
When selecting valves, it is important to consider the application, connections, temperature, and pressure class requirements. Maper’s experts tailor solutions to meet customers’ needs.
When maintaining valves, it is important to take into account the operating conditions and the substances in the pipeline, which can affect the valve’s durability and performance.
“Service life is affected by what goes inside. Contaminants or hard substances will wear valves out faster. Each field also has different materials and different locations for valves,”
adds Kauppila.
Summary
Proper maintenance and servicing of valves are essential for their efficient operation. The basic principle is that if a valve is not leaking, it does not need to be touched.
Maper offers quality valves and expert support to meet customer needs. Read also our previous article Valve ABC.
Need help with valve selection or maintenance? Contact us, and let’s find a solution together!
12.3.2024
