Service Valve Tips – Short 105

In this short podcast episode, Bryan talks about some tips you can use when working with a multi-position service valve.

A service valve will have a line connection, which connects the valve to your line set. You also have a gauge port that you can connect to, a valve stem, and a packing gland nut (directly beneath the valve stem).

If your stem is completely back-seated, then your gauge port is completely closed from both the line and system connection. If you crack the stem off the back seat, then the gauge, line, and system can all communicate. Completely front-seating the valve will generally close off the line connection, but it may also close off to the system connection on some valves. Mid-seating puts the valve stem right in the center for maximum flow.

If you're working with a service valve in a grocery refrigeration application or old A/C system, you may be tempted to use any old wrench on the valve and can damage the valve. So, whenever you work with one of these valves, make sure you use a refrigeration service wrench only. Also, be sure to exercise caution.

The packing gland nut helps keep everything together and prevents leaks. However, you need to loosen it by a quarter to full turn before opening the valve. If you don't loosen the packing gland nut, you will have a hard time adjusting the valve, and you may even damage it.

Whenever you do any brazing on or near a service valve, be sure to protect it from the heat (such as with Refrigeration Technologies WetRag). You'll also want to mid-seat the valve before you start flowing nitrogen.

Learn more about Refrigeration Technologies HERE.

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