Bad industrial valves cause 35% of all plant failures. That’s a pretty staggering number, and it’s why it’s so important to be able to identify and take care of leaks in industrial valves.
Luckily, we’re here to help you do just that. To learn how to identify and take care of leaks in industrial valves, keep reading.
Why Valve Leakage Happens
The average industrial plant can emit 600 to 700 tons a year of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from leaking equipment such as valves. In fact, plants make use of a wide range of valves. For instance, many facilities make use of gate valves.
Leaky valves often start at the gland or stem area of the body of the unit. Often, this kind of failure happens within the valve packing or O-ring.
Likewise, plants can experience leaks from pump seals. They could also experience leaks from connectors, which happen because of gasket failure. This kind of leak also happens because of improperly torqued flange bolts.
The Best Way to Find Leaking Industrial Valves
Continual monitoring and valve maintenance is the best way to find a leaking valve seal. A system of effective monitoring can help to reduce product losses.
A monitoring system can also create a safer work environment. Furthermore, leak monitoring can prevent VOCs from reaching the surrounding community.
With an effective monitoring system, you can also reduce emission fees for your plant. What’s more, you can avoid enforcement actions.
Repairing a Leaking Valve
Ideally, you’ll want to stop leaks while they’re small. As a rule of thumb, you should try the first repair within five days of detecting the leak. You should implement a permanent repair within 15 days.
Sometimes, it’s difficult to make valve repairs in this timeframe. In that case, you should add the failed valve components to a “delay of repair” list. You can then address the issue during the next shutdown cycle.
For an immediate fix, you can make physical adjustments where appropriate. For instance, you can try tightening bonnet bolts. You could also try replacing bonnet bolts.
Additionally, you can tighten packing gland nuts. You could also inject lubricant into lubricated packing.
A Permanent Fix
Some valve failures call for advanced expertise or even a full replacement. In many cases, you’ll find that a new valve is tougher, stronger, and more durable.
Also, the new valve will handle anything you throw at it. Moreover, the cost of replacing a failed industrial valve will far outweigh the capital cost.
However, you must find a service provider that will provide you with a powerful, long-lasting replacement valve. Also, you should look for a provider that will work with you as a partner, helping you meet your industrial equipment needs. One such company with a great reputation is Everlasting Valve Company.
Keeping Things in Order
Industrial valves are an important part of many factories and businesses. They help to control the flow of liquids and gases. It’s vital to make sure they’re in good condition at all times.
We hope this information helps keep your business running well. If you want to learn more about keeping things running smoothly, please feel free to visit our Business section.
