Valve Torque Reduction
Situation:
A major valve manufacturer wanted to reduce torque in rotating components and mating surfaces, while still maintaining sealing capability at the mating surfaces. The manufacturer provides a range of valve types to a variety of industries and wanted a solution that could work across different environmental conditions.
Key operating requirements included:
Testing:
To demonstrate DICRONITE®’s benefit, a test fixture was constructed and a series of tests were run comparing a control valve (steel on steel) and a valve with a DICRONITE® lubricated surface rotating against steel. The load on the fixture was progressively increased while measuring the torque required to rotate the stem.
Results:
As shown, the addition of DICRONITE® dry lubrication to the rotating surface decreased the required torque by more than 25%. This resulted in increased valve life and decreased valve wear.
In addition, DICRONITE® met the manufacturer’s operating requirements with its wide functional temperature range, chemical resistance, radiation resistance, compatibility with liquid/gaseous oxygen and rocket propellants, and compatibility with metal, plastic and elastomer substrates.
DICRONITE® was introduced resulting in lower torque and less wear and maintenance without compromising seal integrity.
