Non-typical applications of globe valves: fine-tuning flow and potential risk analysis

Fine-tuning the valve opening: a temporary solution for flow control
Although the globe valve was not originally designed for flow regulation, in some emergency or special circumstances, the medium flow can be controlled to a certain extent by carefully adjusting the opening of the valve disc. This operation usually requires a high degree of expertise and experience on the part of the operator, as even a small change in opening can cause significant fluctuations in flow. For example, in chemical production, when a reaction process needs to temporarily reduce the amount of raw materials supplied, if the equipped flow control valve fails and it takes a long time to replace the new valve, then using the globe valve for fine-tuning becomes a good method. Emergency measures.

The key to achieving this adjustment lies in the precise control of the valve disc opening, which often requires the use of special tools or equipment, such as stem extenders, fine-tuning wrenches, etc., to ensure the stability and accuracy of the adjustment process. At the same time, considering the flow resistance characteristics of the globe valve, this adjustment may lead to increased fluid pressure loss, so when choosing this method, it is necessary to comprehensively evaluate its impact on the performance of the entire system.

Potential risk: erosion and corrosion of sealing surface
Although the globe valve can temporarily meet the needs of flow regulation in certain specific situations, long-term reliance on this method for flow control hides risks that cannot be ignored. The most obvious problem is the erosion and corrosion of the valve disc and valve seat sealing surface. The sealing surface of the globe valve is designed mainly to withstand the pressure in the fully open or fully closed state, rather than the fluid flushing under continuous intermediate opening. When the valve disc is in a half-open state, high-speed fluid passes through the narrow channel, which will have a strong scouring effect on the sealing surface and accelerate the wear and corrosion of the material.

Erosion corrosion not only reduces the sealing performance of the valve and increases the risk of leakage, but may also shorten the service life of the valve and even cause failure of the entire system. In addition, since erosion corrosion is a gradual process, it may not be easy to detect in the early stages. Once the problem is exposed, irreversible damage has often been caused.

Use with caution and alternatives
In view of the above risks, for application scenarios that require long-term or frequent flow adjustment, it is recommended to use special flow control valves, such as regulating valves, throttle valves, etc. These valves are designed with more sophisticated flow regulation mechanisms and erosion-corrosion-resistant sealing materials, which can better meet the needs of flow regulation while ensuring the stability and safety of the system.

When a globe valve must be used for temporary flow regulation, the duration of the regulation should be strictly limited, and the valve should be inspected and maintained regularly to promptly detect and address potential erosion and corrosion problems. At the same time, strengthening the training of operators and improving their understanding of valve operating principles and maintenance knowledge is also an effective measure to reduce risks.