Keep Everything Running Smoothly: High Pressure Valve Maintenance Guide

The last thing you want to see is a failed high pressure valve. These valves are used to transport fluids such as water or oil. When a valve fails, the resulting symptoms are significant.

In the worst case scenario, you will see leaking or ruptured ancillary components. Other common symptoms of a failed high pressure valve including flooding, noise, and dirt buildup.

Read on for a comprehensive guide to high pressure valve maintenance. Explore tips on how to keep this important component maintained and operating efficiently.

Functional Description

Before we dive into maintenance, it is important to understand the concept behind a high pressure valve. This component is designed to control whatever fluid is passing through.

The shutoff valve allows you to shut off the flow of fluids. In addition, you can also restrict flow to make it more manageable. If dependent on flow to operate, a valve failure can shut down the entire system.

Inspection

Perhaps the most important maintenance action is routine inspection. This is your means to identify any potential issues with the valve.

The inspection interval depends on a number of different factors. How often is the system operated? How much pressure is on the valve?

Evaluate the component for wear and tear and signs of foreign debris. Also check to verify that any strainers or plugged fittings are not clogged or blocked.

Dismantling the Valve

You will need to dismantle the valve to perform a thorough evaluation. This is a multi-step process that is not difficult.

First, relieve all pressure on the valve. Now you can remove the valve from the system it belongs to.

The next step is to open the valve stem. Next, you will need to loosen up the locking device known as the packing gland. By performing these steps, you are ready to perform an inspection, adjustment, or replacement action.

Adjustment

In some cases, the valve simply requires a minor adjustment. This occurs by tightening the packing gland to the specified torque value.

The manufacturer typically provides the required torque values. They can be found online or in a technical manual.

Cleaning and Lubrication

The valve stem is one of the most important subcomponents. If it is not moving freely, it requires cleaning and lubrication.

You should also remove any scale or residue buildup. Finally, if any external hardware is worn out, it should be replaced.

Replacement

If the valve is damaged beyond repair, it will need to be replaced. Instead of loosening the packing gland, you will need to remove it entirely. This step includes removing the valve stem.

Next, you will replace the stem and packing gland. Make certain to insert packing washers into the valve body. Like the adjustment task, you will also need to tighten the packing gland to the specified torque.

A Recap of High Pressure Valve Maintenance

While seemingly a minor part, a valve failure can create major problems. Performing maintenance actions like routine inspection and adjustment go a long way.

If you want to learn more about high pressure valve maintenance, please contact us for assistance or replacement parts.