Valve Stem Tungsten Carbide Trim Repair

Situation

Valve stem with carbide trim does not create a seal and has failed in service.

Task at Hand

Assess if we can resurface the tungsten carbide trim and repair the seal surface on the stem.

Action Plan

Regrind the taper angle on the tungsten carbide plug to meet the customer's acceptable standard. The seal surface on the stem will be rebuilt using DB_68 material and machined back to original OEM size and tolerance.

Results

Customer receives repaired valve stems that are going to last exponentially longer. The repair value is 20-40% of the cost of a new stem. This process is a win-win for the customer. If the valve stem cannot be repaired through regrinding or DB_68 application, we can separate the tungsten from the stainless steel stem and recycle it, ensuring the customer still receives value back even on stems that could not be saved.

Environmental Impact

By repairing rather than replacing, no new raw materials were needed, reducing energy consumption and material waste throughout the process.