We all know what valves do: they can turn things off and on or slowly release pressure. Precision comes with their use.
Regarding water companies, most can probably guess the main role of valves within their operations. They can control water flow, regulate the use of pressure, help establish correct quantities, or may be used to instigate treatment procedures with other liquids as well, as they can be used to control the presence of additives and chemicals.
However, there’s more to know about valves and their uses in water treatment facilities. Let’s explore what they are after the jump.
Diligent Replacement Schedules
Some entities wait until their equipment goes wrong before ordering replacements. They may take the phrase ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ a little too literally.
The same mantra can’t be applied to valves in water treatment facilities. When they do become faulty (and it’s a matter of time before they do), they can cause leaks. At their worst, these types of problems can cause extreme concern for all. Leaks can drain costs, create hazardous work environments, and risk the well-being of anyone nearby. Therefore, a more diligent schedule around replacements is required.
Replacing valves isn’t a reactionary procedure but a preventative one. Setting a timetable for these replacements will depend on multiple factors; the conditions around the valve, what material the valve is made from, and how often it’s used. Butterfly and globe valves tend to require replacements more often compared to their ball and gate counterparts. Either way, they should be inspected regularly as part of preventative maintenance procedures.
Reliable Suppliers
Water treatment facilities can’t maintain a diligent replacement schedule if their suppliers aren’t coming through for them. Any delays or limited stock risk exacerbating these situations.
So, they must ensure that they’re procuring their Vogt valves from responsible third parties that understand how important it is to be prompt and multifaceted. Having free standard shipping on all orders can also help the planning process, counter costs, and give those in charge of water treatment facilities more leeway to schedule deliveries. Petro Valve has a great stock range and strives to make it easier to procure any required valves in water treatment and other sectors.
There can be many unwanted consequences if water treatment facilities partner with sluggish suppliers. Considering everything from water quality to work safety is potentially on the line with reliable valves, smart decisions must be made here.
Rules and Regulations
The use of valves in water treatment facilities helps water treatment facilities comply with rules and regulations. Some defects may even lead to litigation proceedings, so valves must be replaced quickly and competently for these reasons too.
Rules and regulations where the use and condition of valves may be relevant include:
- The Environmental Protection Agency’s policies around wastewater and energy consumption.
- The NSF/ANSI 61 rules and regulations around preventing contamination of water supplies.
- The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) parameters that set standards for maintenance requirements in industrial settings – including water treatment facilities.
So, ensuring valves are working properly isn’t just about giving water treatment facilities a productive boost or ensuring workers don’t slip over. Taking action is a legal obligation, and these entities must take their responsibilities seriously.