Inspection of Forged Steel Flanged Check Valves

Forged steel flanged check valves are critical components in a variety of industries, including oil and gas, water systems and chemical processing. They ensure safety and reliability by allowing unidirectional fluid flow and preventing backflow. However, the presence of counterfeit or substandard valves poses a significant risk. Testing forged steel flanged check valves is important to maintain safe and reliable equipment. In this article, we will cover what a forged steel flange check valve is and ways to recognize these counterfeit components.

Difference between forged steel and non-forged steel flanged check valves

Steel flanged check valves can be forged or non-forged

Forged Steel Flanged Check Valves: these valves are made from a single piece of steel and molded under high pressure. They are known for their strength and ability to handle high pressure.

Non-forged steel flanged check valves: these valves are constructed from multiple pieces of steel welded together. They are usually cheaper, but may not be as strong and durable as forged valves.

Benefits of Using Forged Steel Flanged Check Valves

They are more durable and last longer than other types of valves.

Forged steel flanged check valves can withstand high pressure capabilities, which makes them ideal for demanding applications (e.g. water treatment plants, petrochemical refineries).

They are easier to install and maintain, and check valves have less downtime for maintenance issues and a longer service life than some complex valves.

They offer better flow rate and pressure drop performance and are favored by plants handling liquid or gas processing.

How to Inspect Forged Steel Flange Check Valve

Visual Inspection: Inspect the valve for any visible signs of damage, wear or abrasion. Look for inconsistencies in the structure and surface of the flange check valve.

Pressure Rating Verification: Compare the valve's pressure rating to industry standards; lower than expected pressure ratings may indicate that the valve is cast.

Manufacturer verification: Contact the manufacturer to verify the authenticity of the valve. If it is a reputable manufacturer, such as us, you can confirm the details of their product to verify that it is a forged steel flanged check valve.

Magnetic Particle Inspection: Magnetic particle inspection is a method of observing defects by using magnetic powder as a display medium. According to the type of magnetic powder medium applied during magnetization, the inspection method is divided into wet and dry methods; according to the time of applying magnetic powder on the workpiece, the inspection method is divided into continuous and remanent magnetism. This inspection method can detect surface and near-surface defects in the valve material.

Physical Sample Test: The physical sample of the valve is tested to evaluate his material properties and compare it with the standard of forged steel valves.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Forged Steel Flanged Check Valves

Advantages

(1) Resistant to high temperatures and pressures, suitable for extreme conditions.
(2) Effective on both abrasive and corrosive fluids, long service life.
(3) Fewer parts to replace, reducing overall maintenance costs.

Disadvantages

(1) Comparatively large size and weight can make installation of stop flange return valves difficult.
(2) Cost is generally more expensive than check valve valve types.

Conclusion

Testing forged steel flanged check valves is important to ensure safety and reliability in industrial applications. Using methods such as visual inspection, pressure rating verification, and manufacturer contact can help identify counterfeit valves. By understanding the differences between forged and non-forged valves and considering alternatives, you can make informed decisions to maintain system integrity and performance.