Valves are components that ensure and regulate the unidirectional flow of fluids and gases in mechanical equipment. A malfunctioning valve could spell out serious trouble if it isn’t repaired or replaced. Knowing when and where to buy valves in Australia is essential. Here is a handy guide featuring issues and situations requiring valve replacement.
Smoking
Engines run on fuel. One set of valves allows combustible fuel and air into the engine while another releases the burnt fuel mixture. Operating machinery with burnt valves causes smoking, damaging the engine and converters—poor flow results in fuel wastage and air pollution. Moreover, excessive smoke and heat are unhealthy for those exposed to it. If you inspect the valve and notice a blown gasket, fissures, or broken belts, it’s time for a replacement.
Oil Consumption
If your fuel top-ups are unusually frequent, your valves might be kaput. Broken or damaged valves consume more fuel because of poor retention and misrouting, causing your industrial machinery to run less efficiently. Buying a new valve is far cheaper and more prudent than buying more fuel.
Abnormal Noises
Chatter occurs when the valve speedily opens and closes. Source or path treatment might resolve this issue. In source treatment, you optimize the flow of fluids or gases in the valve to reduce noise. Path treatment involves the reduction of noises after the fluid or gas has passed through the valve. Clean the valves if they are encrusted with debris. The noises and dirt could result from improper or insufficient lubrication. Changing your oil additive blend or increasing the amount or frequency of lubrication could help with noise management. If the problem persists, buy valves from a trusted dealer. Noisy valves impede the optimal functioning of machinery and create an unpleasant work environment. Overexposure to loud noises leads to hearing damage or loss.
Legal Noncompliance
Depending on your jurisdiction in Australia and the industry you work in (oil and gas, waterworks, construction, aerospace, agriculture, etc.), you ought to replace your valves according to legislation. Failure to comply might entail penalties from the state inspector or other authoritative bodies. Ensure your valves are rigorously maintained and well within their useful life to avoid workplace mishaps such as damage to personnel or equipment.
Application
Swapping valves depends on the duration and frequency of machinery operation. The nature of the substances passing through the valve is also critical. For example, chemical plants producing sulphuric or hydrofluoric acid need their valves changed sooner than plants producing phosphoric or acetic acid. Buy valves that are heavy-duty with corrosion-resistant liner and disc material. They should be able to withstand consistent high pressure. As industrial processes involve heat generation, the valves should demonstrate endurance to high temperatures. They should function in frigid temperatures if they are for cryogenic systems.
Wrapping It Up
When purchasing valves for industrial machinery, approach trustworthy suppliers. The ideal supplier will not just sell you a valve but also prove their experience and expertise by explaining the various functions and applications of the company’s product range. The product specifications on their website and catalogs should match the actual products. Consider testimonials from satisfied customers in your niche and enquire about the experts’ qualifications. Browse some websites and request a quote from the best Australian dealers today.
