Regular maintenance of industrial equipment is crucial for keeping operators and the working environment safe, but it can be challenging to access all component parts easily. Thankfully, it is possible to clean valves without removing them from a machine.
Why do valves need cleaning?
When deposits of carbon build up on valves, it can affect their functionality. They may not open or close correctly, and the build-up can lead to a sluggish system with reduced airflow and decreased efficiency. It may also result in safety issues when engines misfire or increased pressure leads to an explosion.
Being able to clean valves in situ, without removing them, is ideal for saving time and money when restoring engine performance and ensuring machines run more smoothly.
Cleaning methods
Before cleaning, you will need to carry out safe isolation, locking off any isolating valves to isolate any pipes that contain pressured gas or fluid.
Fuel additives can be used in tanks to dissolve carbon deposits and maintain a clean system. A maintenance kit should clean the whole system, including intake valves.
Water decarbonisation is when water vapour is put into the intake manifold while running the engine. This loosens carbon deposits effectively.
If the valves are old and in need of replacing, you can check valve stock available from suppliers such as //orseal.com/.
If you decide to clean your valves, you should first warm up the engine to the recommended temperature before disconnecting the battery. After cleaning, you should check that there are no knocking sounds and that the power is improved.