Why Using a Plastic-Lined Valve is a smart choice over High-Cost Alloys

Published: 10th August 2023 | Issue 86

In the industrial landscape, finding cost-effective solutions that don't compromise performance is crucial. When it comes to valve selection, one option stands out as a smart choice: plastic-lined valves. With decades of experience in manufacturing KDV have seen the significance of plastic lined valves being one of the emerging best valve solutions for corrosive and abrasive flow. Add up the low-cost of ownership and its long-term reliability it became the smart choice for many.

Why Plastic lined Valves are the smart choice not the other?

Plastic-lined valves offer numerous benefits, but they may not be suitable for all applications. Certain high-temperature or high-pressure environments may still require the use of high-cost alloys. Here we listed some of the benefits of a plastic lined valve.

Enhanced safety: PTFE is highly resistant to a wide range of corrosive substances, including strong acids, alkalis, and organic solvents. This corrosion resistance ensures the integrity of the valve, reducing the risk of leaks, failures, and potential safety hazards. The non-reactivity of PTFE-lined valves enhances safety by maintaining the purity and integrity of the chemicals being handled minimizing the risk of adverse reactions or contamination. It also has a non-stick surface that prevents the accumulation of residues.

Corrosion resistance: Many organic solvents, including acetone, toluene, xylene, and methanol, can be highly corrosive to metallic valves. Plastic-lined valves, on the other hand, demonstrate remarkable resistance to these solvents. Plastic linings have a low friction coefficient, resulting in smooth flow characteristics. This minimizes the formation of turbulent flow and reduces the chances of localized corrosion or erosion that could occur in turbulent regions of the valve.

Chemical compatibility: Alloys may have good corrosion resistance, but they can still be susceptible to corrosion in certain aggressive chemical environments. PTFE exhibits exceptional resistance to a wide range of aggressive chemicals. They can withstand exposure to corrosive substances, including strong acids, alkalis, organic solvents, and hydrocarbons. It’s one of the best valve selection in the petrochemical industry because of its good temperature resistance that can withstand temperatures from cryogenic levels up to around 260°C (500°F), making it suitable for many petrochemical processes.

Cost-effective solution: Plastic-lined valves are designed to have a long service life in corrosive environments. The plastic lining acts as a protective barrier, extending the lifespan of the valve and reducing the need for frequent replacements and it eliminates the need for extensive maintenance compared to procedures associated with high-cost alloy valves.

Opting for plastic-lined valves over high-cost alloys provides numerous benefits, as mentioned above. However, the advantages extend beyond that. In recent years, there has been a notable growth in demand for plastic-lined valves, indicating their effectiveness and value in various industries. The increase in demand is a testament to the confidence and trust placed in plastic-lined valves because of their exceptional performance, cost-effectiveness, and safety features. The versatility of plastic-lined valves, combined with their ability to handle a wide range of corrosive substances, positions them as a reliable solution for critical applications. As industries continue to recognize the benefits, plastic-lined valves are proving to be the preferred choice, driving their adoption and contributing to the advancement of safety, efficiency, and overall operational success.