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Plug Valves

Use plug valves to shut off or regulate gases and liquids in low-pressure systems

By W. Aiman Mueller
Plug valves, or stop-cock valves, suit a wide range of uses. However, they typically serve low-pressure systems better than high-pressure systems. The body and cover of a plug valve contain a conical or cylindrical plug. The plug seats tightly for complete shut-off, or moves to a full range of positions for regulated flow.

Applications for plug valves are too many to list, but they are common in the petroleum and chemical industries, especially the natural gas plug valve. Industrial plug valves are ideal for both gases and liquids, and they can handle slurries, high volumes and a wide temperature range.

The main variations between plug valves pertain to lubrication and materials. Based on those parameters, here are the types of plug valves:

1. Non-lubricated plug valves are prone to sticking, especially if both seat and plug are metal. Thus, they sometimes include a lifting mechanism.

2. Another type of non-lubricated plug valve employs a smooth, rubbery coating over the plug, which reduces friction when the valve opens.

3. Lubricated plug valves open more easily and wear down more slowly. The lubricant has the added advantage of increasing the integrity of the valve seal.

 

Buy from plug valve manufacturers that have wide selections

You'll want to find a valve in the correct size and with correct fittings. You'll also want the most appropriate pressure and temperature ratings. Lastly, a big concern is plug valve cost. Looking to plug valve suppliers with wide selections makes the hunt easier.
Try: Swagelok has detailed online catalogs for their plug valves. They have numerous options for their plug valves, including pressure ratings all the way up to 3000 psig. For larger or power-actuated industrial plug valves, Assured Automation is a good place to start.

Buy gas plug valves, an oil plug valve or a large sanitary plug valve

The petroleum and natural gas industries sometimes require more specialized valves. Also, sanitary plug valves have size and actuation requirements that are beyond the range of many sources. Searching manufacturers that concentrate on these industries makes the hunt for these types of plug valves much faster.
Try: Cameron carries a range of lubricated and non-lubricated plug valves for the gas and oil industries, many of which are easy to repair. For sanitary applications, Cunico is a quality option.

Repair or replace your plug valves

Check your valves regularly for leaks or corrosion. Planned repairs are much cheaper than sudden breakdowns.
Try: Replace or repair your damaged valves promptly. You may need to call a quality company like Schutte & Koerting, which refurbishes valves. Also, Furmanite provides a number of repair services for heavy industrial applications.

 

  • Many of the smaller plug valves are simple, quarter-turn valves, but there are also 3-port and even 4-way plug valves to suit an even wider range of applications.

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