In soda ash production, the carbonation process in the heavy soda workshop is critical, often referred to as the "heart" of soda production. This process reflects the technical prowess and management level of a soda plant and has a significant impact on product quality.

The ammonia saltwater medium in the carbonation process contains a complex mix of salts, frequently precipitating solid particles and causing scaling, resulting in severe corrosion and abrasion to valves.

In 2020, a soda factory in Guangdong had been grappling with these issues...

On-site Working Conditions:

·Position: Ammonia saltwater cut-off valve at the carbonation tower inlet

·Medium: Ammonia saltwater

·Temperature: 80°C

·Pressure Difference: 0.3-0.4 MPa

Previously, the site used traditional stainless steel valves and lined valves (PTFE, rubber) that could only address either corrosion or abrasion. This led to seal erosion, internal crystallization, and frequent replacements, with each valve lasting only up to six months, thus increasing maintenance workload and costs. The customer was keen on finding a solution.

Just at that moment, our sales team introduced ceramic ball valves through a call. After an online presentation, the customer was drawn to the dual abrasion and corrosion resistance of ceramic valves. They explained the issues they faced, and we quickly arranged an on-site technical discussion. Our technical team promptly analyzed the conditions, finalized a solution, and flew to Guangdong for an in-person visit. The customer approved the proposal but decided to “trial” two valves before committing to a full installation.

In October 2020, Kingway’s KOWOV ceramic ball valves were installed. After six months of use, the client inspected the valves during a scheduled shutdown. The ceramic components showed no signs of wear or corrosion, earning preliminary approval. Over time, the ceramic valves demonstrated outstanding performance, winning the customer's trust and were gradually rolled out across the entire plant.

By August 2024, the two initial ceramic ball valves were still in operation, with a total run time approaching four years! Their expected lifespan is over six years!

Through extended use, Kingway’s KOWOV ceramic valves have proven to be highly resistant to abrasion and corrosion. Currently, they are used across the soda and gray slurry workshops in multiple challenging conditions, effectively resolving the valve issues that previously troubled the customer.

In the future, Kingway will continue to uphold our values of “integrity, dedication, persistence, and excellence,” looking forward to deeper cooperation with clients, using ceramic valves to address tough industrial valve challenges, and building harmonious fluid systems together.