How to Save Money When Buying Types Of Valve Testing

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When it comes to acquiring a valve testing system, your primary concerns should include safety, quality, durability, performance, versatility, productivity, and return on investment.

Consider these 12 crucial questions when selecting a valve tester:

1. Are all components in the tester certified by their respective manufacturers to handle the maximum allowable working pressure of the system? Many valve testers might claim a maximum pressure rating of, for instance, 10,000 psi, but may contain components rated significantly lower, sometimes even as low as 2,500 psi. OEMs often cut costs on safety and quality by opting for cheaper components.
2. What safety measures exist within the test system? Clamping fixtures should always be physically isolated from the test-pressure control console. Ideally, the fixture should be situated in a separate area or behind protective barriers to keep operators away from pressurized components. Request the OEM to detail the safety interlocks and mistake-proof features designed to protect your workers from human error, which is the leading cause of safety incidents.
3. Where is the tester manufactured, and where do the internal parts originate? Many companies choose components from low-cost, substandard suppliers and manufacture their systems in regions with inexpensive labor. It’s essential to ensure that your tester is produced in an ISO-certified factory with a solid reputation.
4. What is the warranty situation? Look for a standard warranty of at least two years as well as available extended warranty options. A lack of a multiyear warranty may indicate that their system lacks robustness. If they can’t afford to offer such a warranty, can you afford the risk?
5. Can the tester be customized to meet your specific needs so you’re only paying for what you require? Avoid being limited to a restricted set of pre-defined models. Make sure you're not paying for features you don’t need while possibly missing out on critical ones.
6. Can the tester be upgraded on-site in the future? Ensure that it provides modular, common-platform designs that allow seamless upgrades or expansions, keeping pace with your evolving business needs.
7. Is it capable of concurrently testing multiple valves? A valve test console with multiple ports allows you to work on one while setting up the next piece on another.
8. How user-friendly is the system? Look for designs that are intuitive and ergonomic, making it faster and easier to complete your testing accurately. For example, a test fixture with a hydraulic tilt facilitates the easy loading of valves and removes air completely for safer and more accurate hydrostatic testing.
9. How precise are the measurements? Inquire from the OEM about the methods they use to achieve accurate measurements. The costs and risks of testing a valve inaccurately can be substantial.
10. What total test time should you expect? Discuss with the OEM your specific valve types, sizes, pressures, procedures, and data requirements to optimize testing duration while maximizing outcomes.
11. Can the test system be automated? Some OEMs can automate the real-time collection, visualization, and analysis of test data, as well as generate reports, providing an automated control over your testing procedures.
12. Is 24/7 support available for the tester? Quality after-sale support can greatly influence your ability to secure jobs. Make sure that your valve tester OEM is ready to support your business whenever needed.

By asking these 12 questions while purchasing a valve testing system, you will gain a clearer understanding of your total ownership costs and expected return on investment throughout the system's life. This knowledge could potentially save you millions! Any provider unable to provide satisfactory answers to these questions may not be the right fit for your business. Rather than simply purchasing a tester, aim to establish a long-term partnership with a provider that can enhance and expand your valve testing operations, delivering true economic value over the years.

For additional insights, visit www.Climaxportable.com or www.hstool.com, or call (713) 333- or (225) 450-.

Valve Applications & Valve Purchasing Guide

Dultmeier Sales has a comprehensive selection of valves suited for various makes, models, and applications. Here, you'll find all the information you need regarding the types of valves we stock and their applicable uses—along with vital advice that can guide you before making a purchase.

Understanding Valves & Common Trade Names

A valve is typically defined as a device used to regulate, restrict, or redirect the flow of a liquid or gas. Although we do offer pneumatic valve options, our primary focus here will be on liquid valves. Common trade names associated with the valves available include butterfly, ball, gate, globe, angle, needle, solenoid, check, regulating, diverter, foot, relief, unloader, backflow prevention, and float valves.

It is crucial to identify the valve type, accompanying manufacturer, inlet/outlet dimensions, operating pressures, and the temperature of the substance flowing through. Recognizing the nature of the solution is essential to confirm chemical compatibility; knowing its pH can also be significant in selecting appropriate components and materials.

How to Determine Valve Size

Valves are sized similarly to pipes – by measuring the inside diameter of the inlet/outlet port. A common error is measuring the external diameter instead. An exception exists when dealing with tubing; then you should measure the outer diameter. For hoses and pipes, focus solely on the inner diameter.

The flow rate can be contrasted by comparing the coefficient of volume (Cv) of different valves. Though it may sound technical, it simply means a higher Cv indicates more fluid can flow through while experiencing the same pressure drop. In most applications, this may not be critical, but understanding this concept enhances your overall knowledge of valves.

Manufacturers & Valve Types

Typically, manufacturers attach a metal tag on their valve bodies to confirm the brand, model, and serial number. This identification is crucial for determining your existing products, starting with the butterfly valve.

Butterfly Valves

At Dultmeier Sales, we provide various butterfly valves. Knowing which butterfly valve style you require is the first step. The two prevalent styles include Wafer and Lug bodies, where a wafer-style valve features “thru” holes running through the rim of both pipe flanges, while a lug-style valve has threaded holes for end-line applications—generally less common.

Ball Valves

Ball valves are among the most prevalent valve types. Their name originates from the internal ball that sits in a seat, effectively controlling flow. When the handle is rotated 90 degrees, the valve closes, concealing the ball. In contrast, turning the handle parallel to the inlet/outlet ports opens the valve.

Standard Port vs. Full Port

Ball valves classified as Standard Port often possess a smaller fluid path than the inlet/outlet port size implies, which might mislead those unfamiliar with these terms. For instance, a 2-inch Standard Port valve may flow similarly to a 1.5-inch valve. Standard port valves are generally less expensive but restrict flow rates, while full-port valves allow maximum flow characteristics.

High Pressure vs. Low Pressure

Understanding operating pressure is vital. Utilizing a low-pressure valve in a high-pressure system could lead to severe injuries. Typically, anything below 150 psi is regarded as low pressure, yet some valves are designed for pressures under 150 psi.

Conclusion

We hope this guide has provided valuable insights into valve types. Although not exhaustive, this information should better equip you for selecting the appropriate valve to meet your application requirements. Always remember to confirm the solution flowing through the valve, its operating pressure range, maximum pressure, and temperature—to ensure compatibility and safety.

For more knowledge, feel free to check out What Is Beveling In Welding.