Manual Ball Valve Troubleshooting

Manual Ball Valves are very reliable in domestic and industrial processes. In the rear occassion that there is a problem the below trouble shooting guide for manually operated ball valves can help the user self diagnose and fix any potential issues.

Problem	Solution
Valve leaking from Ends	On threaded ends this is usually caused by a lack of thread sealant or thread tape being applied. If sufficient sealant / tape has been applied then the ends may need to be screwed on tighter
Valve leaking out the body to atmosphere	This could happen at two points in the valve. At the body seal. This is present in both two piece and three piece valves. The body gasket will need to be checked and make sure it is not pinched. Check and re-assemble Through the shaft / neck of the ball valve. This means that either the internal o-rings on the shaft have perished or are pinched or if it is a gland seal then the gland nut may need to be tightened.
Valve passing internally (leaking past the seats)	This can be caused by either the valve seats wearing out overtime or a piece of debris getting lodged in the seats. The valve will need to be disassembled and checked. The seats can then either be cleaned or replaced and then the valve reassembled
Valve will not Open	Make sure the locking tab on the handle is pulled up so it can be operated If the above is ok there may be something stuck in the valve preventing it from opening
Valve will not Close	Make sure the locking tab on the handle is pulled up so it can be operated If the above is ok there may be something stuck in the valve preventing it from closing
Handle Turning but Valve not responding	Make sure the handle is connected to the shaft / stem of the valve and the drive still engages.
Can not turn handle	Make sure the locking tab on the handle is pulled up so it can be operated