The Impact of Factors on Valve Sealing Performance
Valves are used in all industries for controlling the flow of liquids, gases, and steam. Valves are usually closed or opened manually using a hand wheel, operated using an actuator with pneumatics or hydraulics or operated using electric or manual operation, or in some cases, even remotely operated. A valve is sealed so that the liquids, gases, or steam cannot escape when the valve is in either an open or closed position. For example, valves which are used in industrial processes to control the flow of hazardous gases must be sealed perfectly in order to avoid any potential risks.
The performance of a valve depends upon a number of factors which affect the valve sealing performance. The factors include type of material used, temperature, pressure, timing, and design of the valve.
Material used: The material that is used for the construction of the valve has a significant effect on its performance. The material usually influences the friction, wear and the tightness of the seal. Factors such as hardness, lubricity, melting point, and elasticity depend on the type of metal or other material used. High quality materials such as stainless steel, bronze, aluminum and other similar alloys are normally used for high pressure valves since these materials are more impact resistant, have higher mechanical strength and corrosion resistance. The selection of the material should be based on the working environment and the type of fluid or gas being used in the system.
Temperature: The temperature of the fluid or gas affects the valve’s performance. At higher temperature, the seal material can go through thermal expansion and contractions due to higher temperature which affect the performance of the valve. Also high temperature affects the sealing force that can be applied on the seal material due to changes in friction between the seal material and valve material.
Pressure: Pressure affects the performance of the valve too. High pressure affects the seal material and causes it to deform, while low pressure causes the seal material to be loose which increases the chances of leakage. The design of the valve should be made in such a way that the pressure is not more than that which the seal is designed to withstand.
Timing: Timing is important in valve sealing performance as timing plays an important role in preventing any backflow of liquids, gases, or steam. If the sealing mechanism of the valve is not synchronised with the opening/closing time of the valve, it can lead to leakage.
Design: The valve design also plays a significant role in the performance of the valve. The valve design should include tight seals, which are suitable for the pressure and temperature conditions at which the valve is intended to be working. The design should also include features such as gaskets, O-rings, and labyrinth seals which can prevent any leakage.
In conclusion, valve sealing performance is influenced by a number of factors such as material used, temperature, pressure, timing, and design of the valve. It is important to select the right material, temperature and design for the valve in order to maintain its performance and avoid any potential risks resulting from a faulty valve.
