1. Preparation Before Installation
- Inspect the Valve: Ensure the three-piece ball valve is free from damage or defects, especially the seals. Check the valve markings to confirm they match the system's operating conditions (pressure, temperature, etc.).
- Clean the Pipeline: The pipeline must be clean to prevent debris from entering the ball valve, which could affect its sealing and performance.
- Prepare Tools: Have necessary tools like wrenches and sealing materials ready.
2. Installation Steps
- Confirm Flow Direction: Most ball valves are bi-directional, but for optimal performance, follow the manufacturer’s recommended flow direction marking when installing.
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Connection Method:
- Quick Clamp Connection: Sanitary-grade three-piece ball valves typically use quick clamps. Ensure both ends of the pipeline are aligned, then secure the connection using clamps. Apply even pressure to ensure a tight, leak-free connection.
- Welded Connection: For welded installations, be careful not to damage the valve’s seals during the welding process. It’s advisable to remove the middle valve body before welding to prevent high temperatures from damaging internal components.
- Tightening Bolts: When installing the three-piece ball valve, tighten bolts in a diagonal sequence to ensure even pressure distribution across all connection points.
3. Commissioning and Inspection
- Operation Check: Before pressurizing the system, manually open and close the ball valve several times to ensure smooth operation without any hindrance.
- Leakage Test: Perform a leakage test under working pressure to ensure there are no leaks around the valve connections and seals.
4. Maintenance Recommendations
- Regular Cleaning: Especially when handling sanitary-grade media like food and beverages, regularly clean the ball valve to keep it hygienic and avoid contamination of the media.
- Seal Inspection: Regularly check the condition of the seals for wear and tear, and replace them when necessary.
- Valve Disassembly and Maintenance: The three-piece ball valve is designed for easy disassembly. You can remove the middle valve body for cleaning and maintenance without disturbing the pipeline. When reinstalling, ensure all parts are properly sealed.
5. Precautions
- Avoid over-tightening the clamps or bolts to prevent damage. Make sure the valve aligns properly with the pipeline during installation.
- If welding installation is required, ensure the pipeline cools down before reinstalling the valve body to avoid damaging the seals and internal components.
This installation guide applies to most sanitary-grade three-piece ball valves. For specific requirements, refer to the product manual or contact the manufacturer for detailed technical support.