Valve stem with carbide trim does not create a seal and has failed in service.
Valve Stem Tungsten Carbide Trim Repair
Situation
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.