In highly-corrosive chemical and refining applications where in-line and atmospheric sealing is critical, sleeved plug valves provide essential defense against leaks and fugitive emissions. Because they typically face harsh conditions, repair or replacement is an important consideration. However, before those steps have to be taken, there’s a simple step to make them last longer: tightening the bolts.

Decades of innovation and ingenuity in the pipeline valve manufacturing industry have resulted in dozens of designs incorporating multiple body parts, top and bottom entry designs and sophisticated seat sealant systems. These simple valve designs make emergency sealing and repair safer and easier for technicians.

Twenty-five years ago, the member companies of the Valve Manufacturers Association of America (VMA) saw a need to promote both safety and quality in valve and actuator repair. As a result, the service operations of VMA members banded together to create the Valve Repair Council (VRC). As part of its mandate to educate manufacturers, rebuilders and customers on the importance of proper service and to provide a forum for an exchange of information, the VRC sponsors events such as this year’s meeting and exhibition in Houston, which was June 5-6.

When watching complicated events unfold, it’s human nature to sit smugly back and think: I’m glad I don’t have to deal with that. For many of us in the repair community, this was the reaction when the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) passed fugitive emissions regulations and valve manufacturers were forced to respond. Until now, we could nonchalantly stay uninvolved in the fracas.