I repack my own gate valves, but the packing does not last. What is going on?
Check the quality and suggested uses of the packing in your inventory. Do not use packing specified as “pump packing” for valves, unless this use is approved by the manufacturer. If the shaft and packing gland areas are steam-cut, no packing job will cure this defect. Weigh the cost of replacing the valve against a professional repair by Machined Component Services.