3 Effective Methods to Prevent Check Valve Failure

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3 Effective Methods to Prevent Check Valve Failure

Check valves, or one-way valves, let fluid flow in one direction while preventing flow in the opposite direction. They are an important component in piping; a properly functioning check valve can help protect equipment and prevent downtime. Below, we’ll review some common signs of a bad check valve and the methods used across industries to get the best performance from your valve components.

Common Causes for Check Valve Failure

Check valve failure symptoms can range from debris-related obstructions and water hammer effects to normal wear and tear.

Debris and Contamination

Debris and contamination present one of the most common threats to check valve integrity. Foreign matter can scratch the valve seat or hinder the movement of the disc, preventing a complete and tight shutoff. Over time, this leads to leakage and can cause internal damage, significantly shortening the valve’s operational life.

Improper Installation or Maintenance

Incorrect installation practices and a lack of proper routine maintenance are major contributors to premature failure. Incorrect valve sizing (e.g., oversizing) can lead to harmful vibration damage within the system. Furthermore, neglecting to establish a consistent maintenance schedule allows minor issues to escalate into complete check valve malfunction.

Wear and Tear

Standard operational use naturally causes wear and tear on internal components. The continuous opening and closing of the valve disc against the seat causes gradual erosion and mechanical fatigue. This constant friction and stress eventually compromise the tight seal needed to prevent damaging reverse flow.

Maximizing Check Valve Performance and Longevity

Proper installation and proactive maintenance are important to keep check valves operating at peak performance.

A critical step during installation is assessing the system’s flow capacity to guarantee proper valve sizing. Incorrect sizing, particularly oversizing, risks internal vibration damage, which drastically reduces the valve’s lifespan. By implementing regular maintenance on correctly sized valves, operators can effectively prevent leakage and subsequent premature failure.

Method 1: Proactive Cleanliness and Keeping to Schedules

Preventive maintenance involves keeping a pipeline and valve environment free of debris and contamination. Simple filters are highly effective for blocking particulate entry into the system. If contamination occurs, regular pipe flushing is necessary to minimize buildup and remove settled debris. Finally, establishing a consistent maintenance schedule for all check valves is essential for long-term reliability.

Method 2: Selecting the Right Valve For Your Application

Choosing the appropriate valve significantly enhances both system function and durability. Sizing and selection should be determined by the specific application’s parameters, including the flow conditions, media type, and installation orientation (vertical or horizontal). Incorrectly specified valves lead to higher costs, decreased flow velocity, and operational issues like water hammer.

Method 3: Ensuring a Consistent, Tight Seal

To maintain a secure shut-off and prevent early failure, complete routine inspections. This should include removing any foreign matter that compromises the seal. If flushing is unsuccessful, the next step is to disassemble the valve to determine the source of the issue.

Components like the disc and valve seat will need to be inspected for scratches, and all parts should be cleaned using the fluid native to the system. During reassembly, meticulously inspect the housing and trim parts for signs of corrosion or erosion. Evidence of severe corrosion or excessive roughness warrants immediate valve replacement.

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DFT®: Supporting Your Check Valve Needs

Appropriate check valve choice and regular inspections are key to preventing premature failure in any application. DFT® has been manufacturing check valves and solving issues such as water hammer, low flow, vertical flow throughout our 80+ years of experience. Contact us today to learn more about how DFT® can support your check valve needs.

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