Some discussions on carbon steel ball valves.
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I have no energy left to complain anymore – our carbon steel ball valves that have been in use on pipelines for over a year are basically useless; they either won’t close or won’t open. Has anyone else encountered this problem? It’s really frustrating. Are there any good suggestions for carbon steel ball valves?
It is estimated that your process medium is corrosive and contains a liquid phase, so there is a high likelihood that rust and corrosion will occur after one year of use, leading to reduced flexibility in operation. These days, many organizations no longer use pure carbon steel ball valves; 304 stainless steel balls have a longer lifespan and a lower failure rate, making them a very cost-effective choice overall.
Hehe, this is probably a matter of submitting a plan. The people on site are obliged to submit reports and explanations on this matter to their superiors. If you can explain things clearly and persuade them, then the changes can be made according to your wishes. I’ve attached another report; maybe it will help you in writing your expression. During the implementation process, a comparison using a restructured trial version is used first, followed by evidence based on data.
Remove the valves that are no longer usable and put them together to show to the boss. He will be very heartbroken. Only then will more money be spent on buying a good valve.
Perhaps carbon steel is not suitable for this medium; it’s cheap but of poor quality, and it’s not cost-effective at all to buy it cheaply only to end up spending a lot on its use
We encountered the same issue during production, and it hasn’t appeared again in nearly 10 years since the modification was made
Ball valves are generally made of stainless steel; 304 is usually sufficient, unless the medium is corrosive. Carbon steel is generally used for grade 1, grade 2, grade 3 applications, as well as in fire protection systems, steam, heat transfer oil, etc. Most those using carbon steel are generally globe valves. Ball valves are not recommended for carbon steel.
OP, make sure the spheres and valve seat supports are properly nickel- or chromium-plated; with such plating, they won’t fail to open under normal operating conditions.
Corrosion issues. If you change it to stainless steel. Or maybe replace the inner parts with stainless steel. It will definitely get much better
Hollow spherical carbon steel balls – only cheap products are like this