Maintaining Valves on Your Compressor

 

Valves are critical components of any gas compressor—the machine’s performance is dependent on the condition of its suction and discharge valves. It is necessary to perform periodic maintenance on these important mechanisms so that they are able to withstand sour or dirty gas, and don’t fail in the face of flutter or high-impact forces.

Dismantle the Valves

To dismantle the valves and inner dowel pins, use a fixture or jig to pull them apart. Follow the instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. Use the proper wrenches to open the valves.

Clean the Valves

After you have disassembled the valves, examine all parts for damage and wear. Remove any residue with Trichloroethylene or diesel fuel by rubbing the plates with a soft brush. Be careful not to scratch any surfaces. Use a soft, non-cotton cloth to dry each component.

Inspect and Repair the Valves

If valve plates, damper plates, or spring plates show signs of damage, they must be replaced. If the valve’s thickness has been worn in excess of 10 percent, it will need to be changed. The seat face of each valve must be flat and free of any scratches or wear, so it won’t leak. If the valve seat is damaged, it should be replaced as well.

Reassemble the Valves

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to perform the valve assembly. Use the fixture to tighten the valve nut. The valve plate should move freely.  When installing the valve plate, place the hollow side up toward the valve keeper. Suction valves are equipped with the unloader, so check the clearance between the valve plate and the unloader lifter. Also check the clearance between the unloading piston and the lifter.

Once reassembly has been completed, check the valves for leakage under pressure. Valve cover nuts must be tightened using a torque wrench. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper specifications.

Performing regular maintenance and replacing parts such as damper prolongs the life of your suction and discharge valves, and ensures reliable performance of your compressor for years to come.