Key installation points of pneumatic diaphragm valves under different operating environments

Key installation points of pneumatic diaphragm valves under different operating environments

High temperature environment

In high-temperature environments such as oil refining and chemical high-temperature process pipelines, special attention should be paid to thermal expansion issues when installing pneumatic diaphragm valves. During installation, a certain amount of expansion space should be reserved to avoid excessive stress caused by thermal expansion of pipelines and valves. Expansion joints or flexible connecting pipes can be used to absorb thermal expansion. At the same time, choose high-temperature resistant diaphragm materials and seals, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) diaphragms, to ensure good sealing performance even at high temperatures. For pneumatic actuators, insulation measures should be taken, such as installing insulation covers, to prevent high temperatures from affecting the normal operation of the actuator.

Low temperature environment

In low-temperature environments such as freezing and refrigeration industries, valves may face the risk of freezing. During installation, the valve shall be well insulated and wrapped with insulation materials such as insulation cotton and polyurethane foam. For areas where water may accumulate, drainage holes should be set up to prevent water from freezing and damaging the valve. Choose materials with good cold resistance, such as special rubber diaphragms, to ensure that the diaphragms still have good flexibility and sealing performance at low temperatures. At the same time, the lubricating grease of the pneumatic actuator is replaced with low-temperature lubricating grease to ensure that the actuator operates flexibly at low temperatures.

Corrosive environment

In corrosive environments such as chemical and electroplating, the corrosion resistance of valves is crucial. Prioritize the selection of corrosion-resistant valve body materials, such as stainless steel, plastic, etc. The diaphragm should be made of materials with excellent corrosion resistance, such as perfluororubber diaphragm. During installation, avoid using ordinary carbon steel bolts that may be corroded, and instead use stainless steel bolts or bolts that have undergone anti-corrosion treatment. At the same time, anti-corrosion coating treatment should be applied to the surface of the valve, such as using epoxy resin coating, to further enhance the corrosion resistance of the valve.

High humidity environment

In high humidity environments such as printing and dyeing factories and seaside factories, valves are prone to rusting. During installation, moisture-proof treatment can be applied to the valve surface by applying anti rust paint or using moisture-proof packaging materials. Regularly inspect the surface condition of the valve and promptly address any signs of rust. For pneumatic actuators, it is necessary to ensure that a dryer is installed at the air inlet to remove moisture from the compressed air and prevent moisture from entering the actuator and causing internal parts to rust.

Maintenance strategy based on operating environment

High temperature environment maintenance

Regularly check whether the insulation measures are effective, such as whether the insulation cover is damaged and whether the insulation material has fallen off. Check the aging condition of the diaphragm and seals, and replace them in advance according to the actual operating conditions. Monitor the operating temperature of the valve to avoid temperatures exceeding the valve’s tolerance range.

Low temperature environment maintenance

Before the arrival of winter, it is important to check whether the insulation measures and drainage holes are functioning properly. Regularly start the valve to prevent it from being unable to operate due to long-term low-temperature freezing. Check the low-temperature lubrication of the actuator and promptly replenish or replace the lubricating grease.

Corrosive environment maintenance

Regularly inspect the anti-corrosion coating of the valve and the corrosion of the valve body and diaphragm, and promptly repair or strengthen protective measures if slight corrosion is found. Regularly tighten and anti-corrosion treat bolts and other connecting components to prevent loose connections caused by corrosion.

Maintenance of high humidity environment

Increase the frequency of inspection on the surface of valves and promptly remove any condensation on the surface. Regularly maintain the dryer of the actuator, replace the desiccant, and ensure that the compressed air is dry. Timely remove rust and repaint rusted areas.

Fully considering operational environmental factors and taking corresponding installation and maintenance measures is the key to ensuring the long-term stable operation of pneumatic diaphragm valves in complex environments.