Recently, as the official agent of SEVERN GLOCON, we received feedback from users that some valves supplied by SEVERN failed to operate under extreme winter temperatures at the Tianjin National Pipeline Network Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Phase II project, a national key energy project. The smooth operation of this project is crucial for energy security and public livelihood. Any potential equipment issue could impact stable operations, making prompt resolution imperative.

The project team responded swiftly, conducting a systematic inspection of 80 valves on site. Initial feedback indicated that some valves with top-mounted side handwheels became completely inoperable when temperatures dropped below 0°C. After multiple thorough investigations by our technical service engineers, the root cause was precisely identified:

* Water Ingress Path: The sight glass of the valve handwheel and some connection points may allow external moisture to infiltrate under specific conditions.

* Freeze-induced Seizure: Infiltrated moisture accumulated inside the gearbox. When ambient temperatures fell below freezing, this water froze and expanded. The resulting significant mechanical stress completely seized the actuator linkage rod, rendering the valve unable to open or close.

After identifying the cause, we immediately formulated a detailed rectification plan. We proactively performed preventive inspections and upgrades on all 53 valves with the same structure on site, rather than only addressing the reported faulty units, to prevent similar issues.

Our corrective measures primarily included:

1. Comprehensive Inspection and Drainage:The gearboxes of all 53 target valves were opened, inspected, and thoroughly cleared of internal accumulated water and moisture.
2. Enhanced Sealing Upgrade:Critical leakage risk points, such as the handwheel sight glass and shaft seals, underwent reinforced sealing treatment. Graphite gaskets were added to the gearbox upper covers to ensure sealing integrity, fundamentally blocking potential water ingress paths.
3. Reassembly and Stroke Verification:After reassembling the gearboxes, the valve travel was recalibrated and confirmed to be accurate.

The entire rectification project was completed within 15 days. Our service team overcame various challenges associated with on-site winter operations and successfully completed the maintenance and preventive treatment of all 53 valves to a high standard.

This rapid, precise, and thorough service not only resolved the immediate operational issue but also demonstrated the professional commitment of both our team and SEVERN GLOCON to product lifecycle responsibility and our strong on-site technical service capabilities. Our efforts earned high recognition and praise from the National Pipeline Network project team.