Are you availing the cost-saving opportunities that exist beyond the buying price of the valve?
The two things that pop into our mind when speaking of cost-saving in valves are valve prices and regular maintenance-no doubt, the two most effective strategies to reduce valve costs. But in many cases, the valve’s maintenance needs might rise with time, and the money spent on maintenance might erode initial savings made when buying the valve.
Low-cost valves often need more maintenance and thus incur more costs in the long run. On the other hand, many expensive valves too have a complex maintenance procedure wherein you incur more costs.
These costs add up to huge amounts in case of big companies that have hundreds of valves.
The cost-saving thought thus, should not end at buying and maintenance of valves. A focus on reducing the total cost of valve ownership could open up many other avenues of cost-reduction in the long term.
Consider these 5 ways to reduce the total cost of ownership of your valves
Choose the right valve size
We have addressed before, how right valve size improves valve performance. Oversize valves are sometimes deployed as added safety measures. Reports suggest that around 50% valves tend to be oversized. Deploying oversized valves leads to over expenditure on buying costs as well as on maintenance and operational fronts. This is best avoided.
Minimize the need for maintenance
Regular maintenance of the valves is of course a virtue. However, if the maintenance interval is short, it means you must frequently set aside time and money to inspect and repair the valves. Instead, you could take measures to make these intervals longer. For instance, valve working in dusty environments are often provided with modifications to protect from dust. This prolongs their life while minimizing the need for maintenance.
Check for quality
In a globalized world, valves are sourced from faraway places. It is difficult to monitor manufacturing and testing conditions. In such cases, ensure that the valve bears key testing certifications. For more information, check our blog on 4 vital certifications to check in a valve. At IPC, we address the customer’s concerns about traceability with effective solutions. The customers can now track the progress of their valves through the manufacturing and testing process and get their issues tackled at the earliest.
Consider valves that can switch roles
Valves are available in customized as well as modular designs. Customized valves can offer better performance for certain applications. However, in rare circumstances, if the entire line has to be shut down, these valves too become useless. However, modular valves can be removed and deployed into new roles. IPC supplies both standards and customized valves. Both have their own pros and cons. Depending on the size and needs of their business, the users must decide which valve to choose.
Ensure quick repair and replacement
Being able to quickly finish valve repairs, or replacing failed valves within a short time reduces your downtime. When choosing valves, look for valves that are easy to clean and repair and can be replaced quickly. Finding a reliable and trustworthy partner to supply valves could solve this problem. Sourcing all of your valves from a single supplier also ensures more reliability and ease of maintenance in your network.
Fulfilling the urgent need for durable high-performance valves has been IPC’s core focus for two decades. With capabilities to supply standardized valves in short lead time and dedicated post-sales service, IPC is an ideal long-term partner for your business. To know more about how we could help your business grow, get in touch with us at evalve@ipcvalves.com