Auto-recirc Valve Sticking
Auto-recirc Valve Sticking
(OP)
We have a number of Automatic Recirculation valves in service for minimum flow protection on centrifugal pumps. Service is water condensate at ~330 F.
The issue that we are having is that there is scale buildup on the inside of the valve and it is causing the recirculation plunger to stick, hence causing maintenance downtime. Has anyone else experienced this problem? If these valves can't handle a little bit of scale, how could they possibly handle a more harsh fluid such as one with entrained solids? Is it possible that the manufacturer's tolerances were too low in the manufacturing of this valve? It is an AGI valve.
Any suggestions would be appreciated.
The issue that we are having is that there is scale buildup on the inside of the valve and it is causing the recirculation plunger to stick, hence causing maintenance downtime. Has anyone else experienced this problem? If these valves can't handle a little bit of scale, how could they possibly handle a more harsh fluid such as one with entrained solids? Is it possible that the manufacturer's tolerances were too low in the manufacturing of this valve? It is an AGI valve.
Any suggestions would be appreciated.





RE: Auto-recirc Valve Sticking
For each valve furnish the maintenance history to the manufacturer. Include the current process conditions along with the original specification data. Advise of the water properties, total disolved solids, hardness, etc. Request the manufacturer to propose modifications to resolve the problems.
RE: Auto-recirc Valve Sticking
Valves designed to handle slurries generally have a "flushing connection" to which is piped a small but constant feed of liquid that flushes particles away from critical parts.
Regards,
ABScott