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Factors Affecting Valve Life
The maintenance tables should be used as a guideline
for maintenance frequency. Additional factors that could
affect valve life include the following:
•
Process Fluid - Abrasive or fiber filled fluids are
much harder on seals, shafts, and seats than
non-abrasive fluids, such as oil.
•
Pressure drop across the valve seat - As the valve
opens or closes, the fluid is accelerated to a high
velocity at the needle/seat contact area. The rate of
wear at the valve will be much greater at 3000 psi
than at 1000 psi. Changing ball size can have a
substantial effect on wear.
•
Number of cycles - The number of cycles has a
much greater effect on valve wear than number of
gallons. If you can do the same job with fewer on/off
cycles, the valve will last longer.
•
Speed of actuation - Opening and closing the valve
quickly will decrease needle and seat life. Use short
air lines after the solenoid to improve open and
close speed. Avoid long air tube runs after the
solenoid.
•
Air pressure - Air pressure provides the force to hold
the carbide ball against the carbide seat, sealing
against fluid pressure. Any leakage through these
parts at high pressure will quickly "worm-hole" them
and cause the valve to wear out sooner.
3A8814A
Maintenance
11
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