Why Do Some Valves Need Electroplating?
There are several important reasons for electroplating
valves.
1. Improve corrosion resistance
Resistance to medium erosion
Valves will come into contact with different media in various working environments, such as acids, alkalis, salt solutions, corrosive gases, etc. These media may have a corrosive effect on the metal surface of the valve, reducing its service life. Electroplating a layer of corrosion-resistant metal or alloy, such as chromium, nickel, zinc, etc. It can form a protective film on the surface of the valve, effectively blocking the contact between the medium and the valve base metal, thereby improving the corrosion resistance of the
valve.
Preventing electrochemical corrosion
Valves are prone to electrochemical corrosion in some humid or electrolyte-containing environments. Electroplating can make the surface potential of the valve more stable and reduce the probability of electrochemical corrosion. For example, a galvanized layer can form a dense oxide film in a humid environment, preventing oxygen and moisture from coming into contact with the base metal and thus preventing corrosion from occurring.
2. Enhance wear resistance
Wear resistance: Friction occurs between the valve core and seat, and between the valve stem and packing, during the opening and closing process of the valve. Long-term friction can cause wear on the surface of the valve, reducing its sealing performance and service life. Electroplating a layer of metal or alloy with high hardness and good wear resistance, such as hard chromium, tungsten carbide, etc. It can significantly improve the hardness and wear resistance of the valve surface and reduce the occurrence of wear.
Extend service life
The enhanced wear resistance can maintain good performance of the valve under harsh working conditions, extending the service life of the valve. Especially in some high wear and tear applications, such as mining, chemical, petroleum and other industries, electroplating is crucial for improving the reliability and stability of valves.
Preventing electrochemical corrosion:
Valves are prone to electrochemical corrosion in some humid or electrolyte-containing environments. Electroplating can make the surface potential of the valve more stable and reduce the probability of electrochemical corrosion. For example, a galvanized layer can form a dense oxide film in a humid environment, preventing oxygen and moisture from coming into contact with the base metal and thus preventing corrosion from occurring.
3. Improve appearance
Beautiful and elegant
Electroplating can give the valve surface a bright and smooth appearance, improving the overall aesthetics of the valve. In some industries with high requirements for appearance, such as building decoration and food processing, aesthetically pleasing valves can enhance the overall image of the system.
Easy to clean
The surface of the valve after electroplating is smooth, which is not prone to dust accumulation and dirt adhesion, making it easy to clean and maintain. This is very important for maintaining good performance and hygiene standards of valves, especially in industries such as food and medicine.
4. Improve conductivity
For special applications
In some situations that require conductivity, such as solenoid valves, anti-static valves, etc., electroplating a layer of metal has good conductivity, such as copper, silver, etc. It can improve the conductivity of the valve and meet the requirements of special applications.
Ensure signal transmission: In automation control systems, the conductivity of valves is crucial for signal transmission and control accuracy. Electroplating can ensure a good electrical connection between valves and control systems, improving the reliability and stability of the system.
5. Increase hardness
Enhance mechanical strength: Electroplating can increase the hardness of the valve surface, improve the mechanical strength and impact resistance of the valve. This is particularly important for valves used under high pressure, high temperature, or impact load working conditions.
Preventing deformation and damage: A harder electroplating layer can effectively resist external forces, reducing the risk of deformation and damage to the valve during use. For example, in some high-pressure valves, electroplating a hard chromium layer can increase the hardness and strength of the valve stem, preventing it from bending or breaking.
