How to Extend the Service Life of a Butterfly Valve?
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Butterfly valves, as common control components in industrial pipeline systems, are widely used in industries such as water treatment, petrochemicals, power generation, and papermaking due to their simple structure, light weight, and quick operation.
However, many users encounter a common issue during service: after several years of operation, butterfly valves may develop problems such as poor sealing, sluggish operation, or even leakage. So, how can the service life of butterfly valves be effectively extended?
Normal temperature water systems: Cast iron or carbon steel bodies are recommended, combined with rubber seals such as EPDM or NBR.
High-temperature or corrosive media: Stainless steel bodies (such as CF8, CF8M) should be used, with sealing rings made of PTFE or metal.
Choosing the correct materials helps prevent premature corrosion or seal failure.
Clean the pipeline before installation to avoid welding slag or debris scratching the valve seat.
Ensure that the disc does not come into contact with the inner wall of the pipeline when in the fully closed or fully open position.
Flange bolts should be tightened symmetrically and evenly to prevent valve deformation or leakage caused by uneven stress.
For media containing particles, flush the valve regularly to prevent debris from accumulating on the sealing surface.
For butterfly valves that remain unused for long periods, perform a simple inspection and lubrication before reactivation.
Periodically check the elasticity of the sealing ring and the tightness of the stem.
If leakage is detected, replace the sealing ring or packing promptly to prevent the issue from worsening.
A: Under normal operating conditions, rubber-seated butterfly valves can last about 5–8 years, while stainless steel metal-seated butterfly valves may last 10 years or even longer.
Q2: What should I do if a butterfly valve has slight leakage?
A: You may first try moderately tightening the packing or bolts. If this does not resolve the issue, replace the sealing ring or inspect the valve seat for wear.
Q3: Can a butterfly valve remain half-open for long periods?
A: Not recommended. Keeping the valve half-open for extended periods can cause erosion and wear on the disc and sealing ring, shortening its service life. For flow regulation, it is better to use a control-type butterfly valve or another valve designed for throttling.
Q4: How can I tell if a butterfly valve needs replacement?
A: Replacement should be considered if the valve becomes noticeably difficult to operate, the sealing performance cannot be restored, leakage is severe, or repair costs become too high.
However, many users encounter a common issue during service: after several years of operation, butterfly valves may develop problems such as poor sealing, sluggish operation, or even leakage. So, how can the service life of butterfly valves be effectively extended?
1. Select The Right Materials
Different working conditions require different valve body and sealing materials.Normal temperature water systems: Cast iron or carbon steel bodies are recommended, combined with rubber seals such as EPDM or NBR.
High-temperature or corrosive media: Stainless steel bodies (such as CF8, CF8M) should be used, with sealing rings made of PTFE or metal.
Choosing the correct materials helps prevent premature corrosion or seal failure.
2. Proper Installation and Commissioning
Improper installation is one of the main causes of early butterfly valve damage.Clean the pipeline before installation to avoid welding slag or debris scratching the valve seat.
Ensure that the disc does not come into contact with the inner wall of the pipeline when in the fully closed or fully open position.
Flange bolts should be tightened symmetrically and evenly to prevent valve deformation or leakage caused by uneven stress.
3. Proper Operation and Routine Maintenance
During operation, avoid excessive force or keeping the valve in a half-open position for extended periods.For media containing particles, flush the valve regularly to prevent debris from accumulating on the sealing surface.
For butterfly valves that remain unused for long periods, perform a simple inspection and lubrication before reactivation.
4. Regular Inspection and Replacement of Wear Parts
The sealing ring and stem packing of butterfly valves are wear parts. Over time, they may experience abrasion or aging.Periodically check the elasticity of the sealing ring and the tightness of the stem.
If leakage is detected, replace the sealing ring or packing promptly to prevent the issue from worsening.
Conclusion
Butterfly valves are a cost-effective valve option. With proper selection, correct installation, and careful attention to operation and maintenance, their service life can be significantly extended, maintenance costs reduced, and system reliability improved.Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q1: How many years can a butterfly valve typically last?A: Under normal operating conditions, rubber-seated butterfly valves can last about 5–8 years, while stainless steel metal-seated butterfly valves may last 10 years or even longer.
Q2: What should I do if a butterfly valve has slight leakage?
A: You may first try moderately tightening the packing or bolts. If this does not resolve the issue, replace the sealing ring or inspect the valve seat for wear.
Q3: Can a butterfly valve remain half-open for long periods?
A: Not recommended. Keeping the valve half-open for extended periods can cause erosion and wear on the disc and sealing ring, shortening its service life. For flow regulation, it is better to use a control-type butterfly valve or another valve designed for throttling.
Q4: How can I tell if a butterfly valve needs replacement?
A: Replacement should be considered if the valve becomes noticeably difficult to operate, the sealing performance cannot be restored, leakage is severe, or repair costs become too high.
