Globe valves are widely used in Malaysia’s industrial landscape for their ability to provide precise flow control and effective shut-off. From steam lines and cooling water systems to chemical dosing and gas regulation, the globe valve is a go-to choice when throttling capabilities are required.
But like any mechanical component, its performance is only as reliable as its maintenance. In high-pressure and high-temperature applications—common in refineries, palm oil mills, and power generation plants—a poorly maintained globe valve can lead to leakage, pressure drops, and even equipment shutdowns.
In this article, we explore practical maintenance tips for globe valves, tailored specifically for Malaysian industries. With insights from Natrade’s field experience and technical support services, this guide helps engineers and technicians keep their systems running smoothly.
A tell-tale sign of globe valve wear is leakage around the stem packing area. Over time, heat, vibration, and corrosion can cause the packing material to degrade. When this happens, fluid or gas may leak past the stem—posing a safety and efficiency concern.
Technicians should regularly:
In steam systems, for example, choosing the right graphite-based packing can reduce emissions and improve longevity.
Although globe valves have a relatively simple design, their stem threads and seating surfaces are subject to wear, especially in high-cycle applications. A dry or corroded stem can lead to excessive torque during operation, risking valve damage or actuator failure.
Apply suitable anti-seize or valve lubricant to the stem and yoke during scheduled maintenance. For valves exposed to saline or humid Malaysian environments, consider using marine-grade greases or protective coatings to resist oxidation.
One common issue in infrequently operated globe valves is seizing or sticking, especially in valves left in one position for months. This is a frequent challenge in firewater lines, standby equipment, or backup chemical feeds.
During plant walkthroughs, it’s good practice to:
If the globe valve is motorised, confirm actuator responsiveness and setpoints as part of system verification.
The seat and disc interface in a globe valve is responsible for creating a tight seal under pressure. However, wear from cavitation, debris, or corrosion can erode sealing surfaces over time.
During planned outages:
Stainless steel or stellite-faced trims are preferred for high-temperature or corrosive service, common in Malaysian petrochemical or geothermal applications.
In globe valves with soft-seated designs or composite gaskets, replacement intervals must be carefully monitored. Heat cycling, chemical exposure, and installation torque all influence the lifespan of these materials.
It is advisable to:
Properly resealing a globe valve ensures long-term reliability and maintains system pressure integrity.
Automated globe valves controlled via pneumatic or electric actuators require periodic calibration to maintain precise control. Drift in feedback signals or incorrect positioning can lead to throttling errors and process deviations.
Technicians should:
This is especially important in batch dosing systems, temperature control loops, and flow balancing circuits where tight accuracy is expected.
Operating in Malaysia presents unique maintenance challenges—from high humidity and monsoon rains to elevated temperatures and coastal salinity. These environmental conditions accelerate wear and require localised strategies.
For example, in coastal installations like LNG terminals or offshore processing units, globe valves made of duplex stainless steel or bronze offer better corrosion resistance than standard carbon steel. Maintenance schedules may also need to be more frequent to compensate for faster material degradation.
Natrade supports Malaysian operators with valve servicing kits, material selection guidance, and on-site diagnostics, ensuring that globe valves remain reliable in any application.
The globe valve is a reliable and precise tool in flow control—but it depends heavily on proper maintenance to deliver long-term performance. From minor issues like stem corrosion to critical failures like seat erosion, regular inspection and servicing ensure valves perform as expected, especially in Malaysia’s demanding industrial environments.
At Natrade, we offer globe valves designed for local conditions, along with servicing kits, OEM parts, and technical support to help plant operators maintain system integrity. Whether your system handles steam, water, chemicals, or gas, Natrade’s valve maintenance solutions help you stay compliant, efficient, and worry-free.
To request maintenance guides, valve specifications, or on-site support for your facility, we invite you to register your interest through our official platform.
North American Trade Source (NATS) is a trusted distributor of premium oil and gas equipment, committed to delivering innovative solutions and exceptional customer service worldwide.
