Introduction to Anti-Freeze and Maintenance of Valves

2025-06-12 08:05:30

Prepare the required tools: thermal insulation cotton, iron wire, pliers, utility knife, and carry an effective gas alarm in the gas area.  

According to the size of the valve, use a utility knife to cut the appropriate thermal insulation cotton. Then use pliers to cut the iron wire needed for binding. When wrapping the thermal insulation cotton, tear it slightly to go around the valve handle for better wrapping of the valve body. After wrapping the thermal insulation cotton, fix it with iron wire.  

During use, if freezing occurs and the valve cannot operate normally, never strike the valve with a wrench or other heavy objects. The correct approach is to close the valve, thaw it with steam or hot water, and then open it.  

For valves not used for a long time, the medium in the pipeline should be completely drained to prevent the pipeline and valve from freezing. Ensuring safe production is the obligation and responsibility of every enterprise. Valve anti-freezing is a matter of great importance, and we must not cause irreparable situations due to momentary carelessness.

Anti-freezing should also be distinguished by regions, as there is a significant difference between the north and the south. According to the characteristics of winter and the actual situation of the project, formulate anti-freezing measures for winter boilers, pressure vessels, pressure pipelines and their auxiliary valves, safety relief devices, and implement these measures effectively.  

Increase daily inspection efforts for parts prone to freezing and cracking. Pay close attention to sudden sharp temperature drops, take pre-emptive thermal insulation and response measures, and use thermal insulation materials to strengthen the insulation of equipment.  

The water in out-of-service or overhauled equipment must be completely drained to avoid freezing and cracking; pressure vessels whose media may contain water should be drained regularly, and the Drain Valves should be insulated; steam pipelines should be checked for drainage, and the drain valves and pipelines should be insulated; drain pipelines in chemical systems need thermal insulation; safety valves on boilers, pressure vessels, and pressure pipelines should be insulated to prevent freezing and failure; pay attention to heat preservation during hydrostatic tests, especially the anti-freezing of thin pipelines; when the ambient temperature is low, install level gauges on pressure vessels prone to freezing or add steam tracing pipes to pressure pipelines, and ensure the smooth flow of steam.  

It should be noted that if the pipeline is frozen and the valve cannot be opened or closed, do not force it. Urgently purchase frozen and cracked valves and arrange a maintenance team to thaw the pipeline.