Riccardo Barbone, Georg Fischer Piping Systems, Switzerland
Posters # 2010 Vancouver
Over 50 years ago, the transportation of chemicals represented one of the first applications for plastic piping systems. Since then, plastic piping system products have continually been developed in accordance with market needs and today are uniquely positioned to provide suitable materials as well as cost-effective and safe methods for conveying corrosive fluids in many industries and markets. The success of thermoplastic valves is due to the fact that they are in some cases the only solution to the chemical industry, while in other instances offer a viable replacement for traditional materials like metal when one factors in total cost of ownership, safety, reliability and efficiency. This paper examines the basic selection criteria of thermoplastic valves with special emphasis on material compatibility, valve function, maintenance and the benefits of thermoplastic valves over metal valves. We will show how and where plastic valves are more reliable, safe and efficient than metal valves in typical applications within the chemical industry.
