Choosing valves for corrosive environments


Inside of a W.P. Law Location

Selecting the right type of valve for any project isn’t always as easy as it may seem. There are a variety of factors that must be taken into consideration to ensure that the valve will provide years of uninterrupted service. Not only does the fluid passing through the valve need to be considered, but the environment in which the valve will be operating is equally important. Valves may operate in a variety of environments depending upon the application. Valves that operate in agricultural and construction environments typically only have to worry about the elements. However, some industrial valve application must operate in highly corrosive environments. These corrosive environments can limit some of the options for a valve’s components making the selection process difficult. So how do you make the correct valve selection? Here are some things to consider.

What Makes The Environment Corrosive?

The environment and the type of corrosion resistance required will vary from one project to the next. Is the corrosive environment caused by salt spray near the ocean, chlorine fumes in a commercial pool pump room, or acidic gases in a plating operation? These are just some of the examples of corrosive environments that valve must operate in. Know what is creating the corrosive environment is the first step in finding the proper valve. Many people immediately look at stainless steel as a solution. However, in many cases there are thermoplastic valves that are better suited and much more cost effective.

Functionality Matters

Aside from corrosive resistance, it is also important to consider the overall durability required of the valve. Impact resistance, fatigue strength, and UV resistance are all factors to consider as well. Metal valves may be better suited for applications where there is a high risk of physical damage.

Factors to Keep In Mind

When selecting valves for any application, consider the following:

  • What is the fluid flowing through the valve?
  • Is the valve in a corrosive environment?
  • What is the risk of physical damage?
  • What are my options? Metal vs. plastic.
  • Other factors that make the application unique.

Overall, each situation requires careful consideration of the application in which the valve will need to perform. To get the help you need in selecting the right product, contact W.P. Law, Inc.

Stay Connected

Sign up today to keep up with the newest information from one of the Southeast’s leading suppliers of fluid handling equipment!

Interested In