Valve Marking: What Are Your Options?
Valve marking is an important part of your facility’s pipe safety. Valve marking enables employees and visitors to identify which valves are associated with specific pipes. This is important if a pipe has a leak, is being repaired or needs to be emptied, for example.
There are various products you can use for valve marking. One of the best choices is a metal valve tag. Metal valve tags are durable, and therefore a great way to label pipes and other equipment in harsh environments.
Aluminum Valve Tags
Aluminum valve tags are tough and durable for repeated use. These tags do not bend and will not rust, even if they are scratched. Aluminum tags can also withstand temperatures of 1500° F. And, if you want to color code your valves, some companies sell color-coded aluminum valve tags that are precision engraved to ensure the wording won’t wear off.
Brass Valve Tags
Brass valve tags are a more economical valve marking option. Similar to aluminum tags, brass valve tags will not bend or break. But, they can only withstand temperatures of 1200° F.
Stainless Steel Valve Tags
Stainless steel valve tags are rust resistant and can stand up to highly corrosive environments or extreme weather conditions. These tags can withstand extreme temperature of 2700° F.
Plastic valve tags are also a viable option for valve marking. Plastic valve tags can be an economical and easy-to-use option for valve and machine marking. Unlike metal tags, plastic valve tags offer you the option to write right on them, versus spending extra money on engraving.
Self-Fastening Tags
Self-fastening tags allow placement of a tag on valves and equipment without the need for fasteners or tools. Self-fastening tags are flexible, yet durable for high performance. They also resist dirt, grease and moisture. These tags are available in stock legends such as “Do not close this valve” or OSHA-required headers. They even come blank so you can choose your own message.
Economy Plastic Tags
Economy plastic tags are made of thin plastic that can be attached to valves or machines with virtually any type of fastener. Economy plastic tags are not overly durable, so they may not be the best choice for making valves exposed to harsh conditions.
Heavy-Duty Plastic Tags
Heavy-duty plastic tags are made of thicker plastic so they can withstand tougher use. Heavy-duty plastic tags are a more durable, tear-proof valve tag as compared to economy plastic tags. Like most plastic valve tags, you can have them custom worded or simply write right on them.
Write on Tags
Most plastic valve tags can be easily written on for quick valve marking. Some write-on tags come pre-numbered with space to write a personalized label, while others come completely blank for full customization.
Which will you choose for your next valve marking project?
