How to avoid problems

• Ball valves should be transported and stored with the ball in the fully   open or fully closed position.

• Flanged ends and welded ends should be protected.

• End protection should be removed only when the valve is installed in   the line.

• Valves should be handled using the proper lifting lugs.

• Valves should be stored according to GM storage procedures. Long
  term storage should be avoided.

• For welded-end valves, advise GM if there will be a post-weld heat   treatment (transition pups may be necessary to avoid damages to
  seals).

• Flush and clean the line before opening/closing the valve.

• Make sure no line-testing fluid is left in the line and/or the valve body.

• Avoid leaving the valve body filled with salt water to prevent internal   corrosion.

• During line-testing, valves should be left in the partially open position   for the minimum possible amount of time.

• Standard ball valves should be used for on-off service only. Throttling   service (use of the valve with the ball partially open) can damage the   seats.

• Make sure to take into consideration the actual service conditions
  when selecting materials for O-rings and seat inserts.

• Always specify anti explosive decompression material for valves to
  be used in high pressure gas service.

• Make sure the selected actuator has been properly sized (an
  oversized actuator can be as dangerous as an undersized one).

• Advise GM of cycle frequency to ensure proper sizing of actuator.

• Do not use the actuator to lift the valve.