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An investigation of the failure of a 1/4" ball valve.

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Bibliographic Details
Title: An investigation of the failure of a 1/4" ball valve.
Authors: Moses, Daniel1 (AUTHOR) daniel-moses@utulsa.edu, Haider, Ghulam1 (AUTHOR) ghulam-haider@utulsa.edu, Henshaw, John1 (AUTHOR) john-henshaw@utulsa.edu
Source: Engineering Failure Analysis. Jun2019, Vol. 100, p393-405. 13p.
Subjects: Valves, Cavitation erosion, Mechanical abrasion, Failure analysis, Fluid control, Fluid flow
Abstract: Abstract This paper describes the failure analysis of a 1/4 in. brass ball valve that operated extensively in a partially opened state. The valve showed signs of extreme erosion and corrosion damage and was eventually replaced due to leakage from the valve body. The failure mechanisms observed are a result of improper valve selection and/or operational error. Summary of failure causes • The valve was left partially open for prolonged throttling applications. This resulted in extensive fluid and cavitation erosion. • Abrasive particles (sand) became embedded in the seals. These particles scratched grooves into the ball surface and prevented proper sealing. • Saltwater weakened the brass components through a de-alloying corrosion process. Corrosion was further expedited by cavitation. Ball valves are not intended for continuous throttling operations in harsh environments. Use of a globe type valve is recommended for controlling fluid flow rate in this application. Highlights • A ball valve was left partially open for prolonged throttling applications. • Severe fluid and cavitation erosion damaged the valve ball, seals, and body. • Abrasive particles became embedded in the seals causing scratches on the valve ball. • Saltwater weakened the brass components through a de-alloying corrosion process. • Ball valves are not recommended for controlling fluid flowrates via throttling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database: Engineering Source
Description
Abstract:Abstract This paper describes the failure analysis of a 1/4 in. brass ball valve that operated extensively in a partially opened state. The valve showed signs of extreme erosion and corrosion damage and was eventually replaced due to leakage from the valve body. The failure mechanisms observed are a result of improper valve selection and/or operational error. Summary of failure causes • The valve was left partially open for prolonged throttling applications. This resulted in extensive fluid and cavitation erosion. • Abrasive particles (sand) became embedded in the seals. These particles scratched grooves into the ball surface and prevented proper sealing. • Saltwater weakened the brass components through a de-alloying corrosion process. Corrosion was further expedited by cavitation. Ball valves are not intended for continuous throttling operations in harsh environments. Use of a globe type valve is recommended for controlling fluid flow rate in this application. Highlights • A ball valve was left partially open for prolonged throttling applications. • Severe fluid and cavitation erosion damaged the valve ball, seals, and body. • Abrasive particles became embedded in the seals causing scratches on the valve ball. • Saltwater weakened the brass components through a de-alloying corrosion process. • Ball valves are not recommended for controlling fluid flowrates via throttling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:13506307
DOI:10.1016/j.engfailanal.2019.02.047