High-pressure valves are engineered to withstand the demands of fluid control systems while ensuring maximum safety and performance. However, all valves will eventually wear out, even with proper care and routine maintenance. Without appropriate repair and replacement strategies, your fluid system is at risk for unexpected failures, ruptures, and other issues that can create unplanned downtime and safety hazards.
To help your organization get started building a solid repair and replacement strategy, here are three tips for knowing when to repair or replace your high-pressure valves. Additionally, you’ll find more information about how Hy-Lok Canada’s high-pressure valves deliver performance and value in any fluid system.
1. Understand Operational & Jurisdictional Requirements
Not following current repair and maintenance regulations for your industry puts your operation at risk for fines, unexpected downtime, or even equipment damage and safety hazards.
Remember: repair and maintenance regulations exist to ensure the safe operation of your equipment and prevent you from damaging your fluid system, experiencing an unexpected shutdown, or worse. Ensure your maintenance teams perform regular upkeep and maintenance, including inspecting high-pressure valves for wear and tear.
2. Know Your Components’ Estimated Lifespan
Every component in a high-performance fluid system has an estimated lifespan. In the case of high-pressure valves, operating life can be affected by numerous factors, including operating pressure, the type of fluid in the system, and general operating conditions.
In addition to the valves themselves, elastomers (commonly used for O-rings, seals, and other similar applications) can (and do) wear out quickly under high temperature and pressure conditions, leading to leaks and decreased performance. Nonetheless, o-rings and seals are commonly overlooked in many maintenance plans. To avoid any unexpected shutdowns, establish an accurate lifespan of every part of your fluid system, and ensure that components are regularly inspected, maintained, or replaced.
3. Understanding The Cost of Repair vs. Replacement
When your high-pressure valves are no longer performing up to their established standards, it’s not always easy to decide between repair or replacement. It is essential to consider what the most cost-effective option is and what will provide the best long-term solution.
If repairing a system component can save you money without hindering your system’s overall performance or causing excessive downtime, it may be the best solution. However, if the total cost of repair exceeds 60% of the cost of acquiring and installing new components, investing in new valves may be a better long-term solution to keep your fluid system operating at its peak.
High-Pressure Valves at Hy-Lok
Since 1977, Hy-Lok Canada has been a leading manufacturer and supplier of high-pressure valves and fluid system solutions. With a vast inventory of components crafted from top-quality materials (including 316 stainless steel, carbon steel, brass and specialty alloys), Hy-Lok is the clear choice for Canadian industry.
With an extensive network of distributors across the country, Hy-Lok is the ideal fluid system component partner for operations from coast to coast. Our high-pressure valves are always readily available, and custom orders are fulfilled quickly and efficiently. With expedited shipping available, your operation can rely on Hy-Lok to supply quality check valves for projects across Canada.
Learn more about our products, including availability, by contacting our team today!
