Valves And Fittings – A Short Guide For Material Selection

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Valves And Fittings – A Short Guide For Material Selection

When it comes to industrial valves and fittings, you want to go for the best available material. That should not be the deciding Fittingsfactor.

Why? Because, the unit may not be suitable for your particular application.

As a fluid system engineer or plant manager, you have to be aware of all your system requirements. The fluid itself, temperature and pressure conditions, and several other factors must be considered.

It is important to choose valves and fittings constructed with the right materials. If you do your research before making the purchase, you can save the system from potential failure.

Chemical incompatibility is a major issue

Compatibility is the first thing you should consider when purchasing sealing products. Incompatible components can and will result in operation failure.

Stainless steel components are the most resistant and widely compatible options. However, they are not universally compatible. They often work well in aggressive conditions, but it doesn’t mean they will always be suitable for such environments.

For instance, 316 stainless steel products will perform if the system involves use of nitric acid. But they will fail if it’s replaced by sulfuric acid…

Even the finest material used for manufacturing sealing components has limitations.

How can you ensure chemical compatibility?

Most industries use a range of chemicals and other materials. We don’t expect you to know what works for each one of these systems.

When you order a sealing product, make sure you know the specific application requirements. This information is easily available via various online resources.

*If you’re only working with nitrogen, hydrogen or compressed gas, typically, there’s no need to worry about compatibility.

Coat it once or twice!

Sealing products, made with 316 stainless steel, are highly reliable. They ensure optimal performance and fit well with most systems.

If your processes involve chemicals that make it difficult to use stainless steel products, opt for a coated component. PTFE and other coatings are sometime available upon request.

Check out our product catalogue and contact us to learn more about pneumatic and hydraulic fittings.