In any piping system—whether it’s plumbing, HVAC, or fire-fighting—valves are expected to last for years, not just months. So, when valves start leaking, jamming, or underperforming shortly after installation, it raises red flags for project managers, maintenance teams, and MEP consultants alike.

So, why do some valves lose efficiency so quickly? Let’s break it down.

1. Poor Material Quality

Cheap or low-grade materials like thin brass, substandard cast iron, or plastic components often can’t withstand real-world conditions like high pressure, fluctuating temperature, or hard water.

  • Valves made from low-quality alloys may corrode or weaken faster

  • Rubber seals inside inferior valves harden or crack

  • Handles and spindles become stiff due to rust or poor threading

Result: Reduced sealing ability, frequent maintenance, and leakage.

 2. No Strainer or Debris Protection

Pipelines often carry more than just water—sand, metal particles, and rust flakes are common contaminants. Without a separate strainer, these particles can:

  • Scratch valve seats

  • Clog internals

  • Damage soft seals or diaphragms

Result: Valves lose efficiency, and may even fail prematurely.

 3. Incorrect Valve Selection

Using the wrong valve type for a particular application can severely affect performance. For example:

  • Using a diaphragm PRV where a piston PRV is needed for high pressure

  • Installing a butterfly valve in place of a ball valve for frequent shut-off cycles

  • Choosing non-lockable valves in areas with pressure tampering risks

Result: Operational inefficiencies, high wear rate, and increased downtime.

 4. Pressure & Temperature Extremes

Valves not rated for certain conditions can quickly degrade:

  • Over-pressure leads to seal damage and internal fatigue

  • High temperatures can melt or deform plastic parts or gaskets

  • Frequent pressure spikes create vibration and micro-fractures

Result: Reduced performance and shorter lifespan.

 5. Improper Installation

Even the best valves can fail if not installed correctly:

  • Wrong orientation (especially in check valves)

  • Over-tightening that damages threads or seals

  • Ignoring alignment in flanged valves

Result: Internal strain and eventual loss of efficiency.

 The Solution: Choose Right, Choose Quality

At Pipeline Products India, we only deal in tested, reliable, and brand-certified valves—built to withstand pressure, heat, flow, and time.

We recommend:

  • High-grade brass or CI valves from reputed brands like CIM Valves (Italy)

  • Separate strainers to protect downstream equipment

  • Application-matched valve selection (PRVs, ball, butterfly, or NRVs)

  • Professional installation guidance for long-term reliability

 Conclusion

Valves that fail in a few months aren't just a product issue—they're a project risk. Poor material, wrong selection, lack of strainers, or high stress conditions are often to blame.

Trust Pipeline Products India to deliver valves that don't just work—but last.

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