Monitoring fluid flow is an essential part of ensuring safety at factories. Gate valves help industries carry out this function optimally, by either totally blocking the flow of a liquid or allowing it to flow completely in a pipeline. So, these are used only in fully opened or fully closed positions.

But it is not enough to install gate valves—one should also maintain it regularly, so that it lasts long, enhances safety, and reduces costs in the long run. Here are some tips to increase the durability of your gate valves.

Relieve system pressure before starting the maintenance process

If pressure accumulates in the valve system, it can cause damage to the environment and injuries to workers. So, one should always relieve system pressure before starting gate valve maintenance.

Follow every step carefully when replacing the gate valve

If a gate valve needs to be replaced, it’s important to meticulously follow every step involved in the process—taking off the top body, or bonnet, and stem; screwing out the gate carefully; replacing it with the new component; and securing the top body and stem again. Reputed valve suppliers in India ensure that every step is followed thoroughly when replacing gate valves in factories.

Check bolt tightness regularly and tighten them if required

By tightening the bolts of your gate valve, you create a firm seal between the valve, flanges, and gasket. If the bolts loosen up, the seal is no longer firm, and the valve’s efficiency reduces. So, it’s important to check the tightness of the gate valve’s bolts frequently and tighten them if needed. This process should be carried out in stages, so that the pressure is evenly distributed.

Avoid using the gate valve at pressures above its working pressure

Using gate valves at pressures above the permissible pressure can not only damage the valve but also cause a safety hazard. Thus, one should check the gate valve’s optimal or working pressure and avoid using it at pressures higher than this limit.

Cycle the valve at least once a month when not in use

When valves are not in use for a long time, they might eventually stop working optimally. So, in such cases, factories should cycle their gate valves at least once a month to increase its longevity.

Clean the gate valve parts regularly

With time, the different gate valve parts may begin rusting or collecting dust. This can eventually cause problems with the valve’s functioning and act as safety hazards. To prevent such issues, it’s essential to clean every part of your gate valve regularly.

Valve maintenance is an essential aspect of increasing gate valves’ longevity. We at Brosco leave no stone unturned to help you maintain your gate valves well, so that they last long. We would be glad to understand your personal requirements and help you with end-to-end gate valve installation and maintenance. We offer different types of gate valves, including PVC and brass gate valves. Click here to reach out to us and check out our services and gate valve prices!