While presenting in a recent VMA Valve Basics 101 Course in Houston, I found myself in a familiar role: explaining solenoid valves (SOVs) to attendees. (I work with solenoids so much that one VMA member at that conference joked that I needed to be wearing an I Heart Solenoids t-shirt). During the hands-on “petting zoo” portion of the program, which involves smaller groups of attendees, one of the most frequently asked questions I get from people came up: What’s the difference between direct-acting and pilot-operated SOVs, and how do we make a choice?
April 8, 2019
Because of the critical function of main steam isolation valves in nuclear applications, keeping these valves running at optimum performance levels is vital.
March 11, 2019
Cybersecurity is one of the major risks facing the valve industry, and it is not a problem that can merely be solved by other parties besides the intended victim.
March 11, 2019
Editor’s Note: We continue the series written by John Ballun, president and CEO of Val-Matic Valve and Manufacturing Corp. and released in 2016 as a book dedicated to the mentors that saved him and others from making costly mistakes in the field.
March 6, 2019
Valve modification can be defined as: adding value to standard or “commodity” valves by installing actuators, special trims, different end-connections, packing and gaskets, and other accessories or upgrades not provided on the original product.
February 25, 2019
From time to time, we are re-posting well-received or particularly valuable articles that have previously run on VALVEMagazine.com so that those who might have missed them will be able to catch up on the best of the best.
February 4, 2019
In the last year, one word has dominated U.S. trade policy: tariffs.
January 20, 2019
Happy New Year to our VALVE Magazine readers and contributors.
January 2, 2019
The relationship between valve manufacturers and their sales channels is intriguing, dynamic and at times challenging.
January 1, 2019
In November, the latest 2018 skills gap study from Deloitte and The Manufacturing Institute projected that 2.4 million skilled jobs will go unfilled in manufacturing between 2018 and 2028.
December 31, 2018
Many people in the valve industry recognize the name John Spears because he has been a featured speaker at VMA’s Market Outlook for many years.
December 18, 2018
A walk through a typical valve distributor’s warehouse will yield a contrasting view of either silver or black products.
December 17, 2018
