Common Problems with Gas Butterfly Valves and How to Fix Them

Natural gas systems depend on reliable flow control — and Gas Butterfly Valves play a big role in keeping everything safe and efficient. But like all mechanical devices, they can sometimes run into issues. Don’t worry, though! In this post, we’ll explore the most common problems users face with gas butterfly valves, what causes them, and some practical ways to fix them.

This guide is perfect for engineers, maintenance staff, or even buyers who want to understand what makes a high-quality valve truly last.

1. Leakage Around the Valve Seat

Problem:
One of the most frequent issues is gas leakage around the seat area. This not only wastes gas but also creates serious safety risks.

Causes:

• Poor sealing design or worn-out soft seal

• Foreign particles trapped between the disc and seat

• Excessive operating pressure beyond design limits

Solutions:

• Choose a hard-seal three eccentric butterfly valve, like our L90 Series, which provides tight sealing even under high temperature and pressure.

• Clean the valve regularly to remove debris.

• Ensure proper installation alignment.

👉 Pro tip: A good valve doesn’t just rely on material — precision machining and assembly make all the difference.

2. Disc Gets Stuck or Doesn’t Rotate Smoothly

Problem:
If you feel the disc “jam” when opening or closing, that’s a clear sign something’s wrong.

Causes:

• Corrosion buildup due to moisture or gas impurities

• Shaft misalignment during installation

• Worn bearings or seals

Solutions:

• Apply anti-corrosion coatings on internal parts.

• Recheck the alignment between shaft and actuator.

• Use high-quality bearings for smoother operation.

For gas systems that contain hydrogen or oxygen, consider using stainless steel butterfly valves to prevent oxidation and sticking.

3. Actuator Fails to Respond

Problem:
Sometimes, you turn the actuator but the valve doesn’t move — super frustrating, right?

Causes:

• Damaged actuator motor or air supply issue (for pneumatic systems)

• Loose connection between actuator and stem

• Excessive torque requirement due to buildup inside the valve

Solutions:

• Regularly test the actuator response time.

• Tighten or replace stem connections.

• Clean the valve body and lubricate moving parts.

Transitioning to electric actuators can also help automate your system and reduce manual errors — which is quite handy in large gas networks.

4. Vibration or Noise During Operation

Problem:
If your gas pipeline starts to “sing” or vibrate, it’s not a good sign.

Causes:

• Turbulent gas flow at partial opening

• Improper valve sizing

• Loose installation bolts

Solutions:

• Use a valve with three-eccentric design for stable flow.

• Check your flow rate and pressure to ensure proper valve selection.

• Reinforce installation joints and supports.

These vibrations might sound minor, but if ignored, they can shorten your valve’s lifespan big time.

5. Preventive Maintenance Tips

Let’s be honest — maintenance can sound boring, but it’s your best friend for safety and cost savings. Here’s what you can do:

• Schedule quarterly valve inspections

• Keep spare seals and gaskets on hand

• Use clean, dry gas to minimize internal contamination

• Lubricate the stem and moving parts regularly

Even one small leak can cause big losses in natural gas systems, so keeping an eye on your valves is always worth it.

6. Why Choose Shanghai Rogers Valve Co., Ltd.

Shanghai Rogers Valve Co., Ltd. has decades of experience designing and manufacturing Gas Butterfly Valves, Electric Ventilation Valves, Cryogenic Valves, and Hydraulic Check Valves.
Our valves feature butt-welded hard seals, three-eccentric structure, and precision machining, ensuring zero leakage and smooth control in even the toughest working conditions.

With a professional overseas maintenance team and strong R&D background, we help global customers achieve long-term system stability and safety.

A gas butterfly valve may look simple, but its reliability depends on design accuracy, materials, and maintenance. By understanding these common issues and solutions, you can extend your valve’s service life and keep your natural gas system running safely — no headaches, no surprises.