Australian Pipeline Valve - Installation, Operation and Maintenance Manual
12
API6D THROUGH CONDUIT EXPANDING GATE VALVE - AP400-405 SERIES
3 . 0 R E M O V A L F R O M L I N E
It is desirable that the maintenance operations are carried out by skilled personnel who are experienced
and well trained in standard field techniques and procedures. Be sure that the personnel involved in such
operations are aware of fundamental safety rules indispensable for the protection of their own and other
people’s safety. Gate valves are field maintainable, hence to carry out normal maintenance (stem
lubrication, stem packing substitution, seat lubrication) it is not necessary to remove it from line (seat
lubrication is only for emergency purposes not for maintenance).
If it is required to remove the valve from the line proceed as follows:
a- Ensure the line is fully depressurised.
b- Partially open the gate in order to depressurise the valve.
c- Remove the drain plug and vent plug. First release vent to ensure no remaining pressurised gas or fluid
trapped in cavity. Take safety precautions to avoid personal injury during this procedure. Then carefully
remove drain plug once you are sure valve has no remaining fluid or gas in cavity.
d- Keep the gate in the fully open position.
e- Remove the valve from the line. The valve shall be handled by means of lifting lugs fitting on the valve
(if applicable). Standard field techniques and procedures are satisfactory to disconnect it from the line.
f- After removal of the valve from the line, clean the valve and seal the ends with plastic or wooden
covers.
4 . 0 G E A R B O X R E M O V A L
a- Removal (refer to enclosed drawings)
• Unscrew the bolts/nuts.
• Lift the gear box to disengage the valve stem and remove it with the plate.
b- Put in position a removable cover to prevent the introduction of dust, sand, etc., in the actuator
bushing.
Stem seal body leakage can result in personal injury. In an emergency, injecting
grease into the grease sealant injection nipple fitted to stem (where fitted) may
temporarily cause the leakage to cease but the valve should be removed from the
line for repair as soon as possible.
When removing the safety cap of the grease fitting, be careful not to unscrew the
complete grease fitting out of the body, because it is under pipe pressure. Use a
back-up wrench.
