Oil and gas pipeline valves are not accessories that you come across daily. Thus, it can be quite challenging when shopping for one, especially for newly-established corporations. Valves are devices that control or regulate a fluid’s flow in a pipeline. Oil and gas pipelines do “hot work”; hence an industry cannot afford to invest in a substandard valve that cannot withstand pressure. Remember, when a petroleum or gas valve malfunctions, the results can be catastrophic in terms of irreversible damages. Moreover, the company can also experience huge losses if repairs aren’t done on time.

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It is important to note that different types of valves have varying functions. For instance, a strong

 expanding gate valve lifts or closes a circular gate of a pipeline to allow and inhibit fluid flow, respectively. An expanding gate valve has proven benefits and features of zero leakage by its tight mechanical seal function. While shopping for an industrial gas pipeline valve, you must consider several other factors which include but aren’t limited to the following:

Intended Purpose

Petroleum and gas industrial valves have different functions, such as controlling the flow of

fluids or even preventing backflow. Other types of valves include safety and steam, especially for the gas. Therefore, make sure you understand the type of valve that you want before giving

your supplier the green light to proceed with shipping. You might also be interested to know that some valves close in one direction while others close in both.

Quality

Besides the intended purpose, you must also consider quality. While most brands will try to convince you about their quality, it will help if you consider direct references or thorough

research to make a judgment by yourself. The internet has made it easy to research various brands. You can join pipeline industry online community forums to see what other investors recommend. You can also read customer reviews on companies’ websites and independent

third-party platforms. Positive online reviews are like personal recommendations and will often point you in the right quality.

Testing

As mentioned earlier, petroleum and gas industries cannot afford to have pipeline accidents as the fluids are highly inflammable. Thus, it would be best if you bought valves that have

surpassed test limitations, at both company and third-party levels. Don’t install any valve in your pipeline unless it conforms to the API 598, “Valve Inspection & Testing” standards. All tests happen in a hyperbaric chamber, against high-level external pressure. Besides the internal pressure, it is essential to understand that valves can also succumb to external pressure. This is

especially important when part of the pipeline runs underwater. Remember, pressure in water increases with depth.

Budget

Lastly, you might also want to consider your spendable budget before committing to a supplier.

It is essential to understand that pricing is relative and will often closely relate to the quality of the valve. Valves are also priced according to their functions. Other factors that might affect your budget include brand and customs duty if you are importing. Nonetheless, you should spend on a valve whose features genuinely reflect the value or money paid.

The above factors will ensure that you score a durable valve, built for longevity. Remember, durable is cheap in the long run thanks to minimal repairs. However, you must still inspect the pipeline regularly as recommended by experts.

Clare Louise