Specialized maintenance of critical valves ensures safety and performance during scheduled shutdowns

Specialized maintenance of critical valves plays a vital role in the safety, efficiency and longevity of industrial operations, especially in large-scale processing units such as refineries and petrochemical plants. As systems become more complex and operational conditions increase, it becomes even more necessary for interventions to follow strict standards and be performed by specialists with extensive technical knowledge, demonstrating the relevance of relying on the equipment manufacturer. Adopting this model, with a focus on specialized expertise and validated technical solutions, contributes not only to reducing operational risks, but also to maximizing asset performance, preserving operational continuity and efficiency in the long term.

Expert collaboration as a model for industry

In the context of the Presidente Bernardes Cubatão Refinery (RPBC), the strategy adopted for the scheduled shutdown of the Primary Cracking Unit (UCP-I), scheduled for 2025, exemplifies this successful model. RPBC will rely on FLUXO and DeltaValve, companies that have in-depth knowledge of the valves and critical systems present in coke drums. This partnership, which involves the original manufacturer in the maintenance of automated valves and auxiliary systems, ensures the use of original parts and the application of best practices, maximizing performance and safety during the shutdown and resumption of operations.

The specialized maintenance cycle adopted at RPBC

• Accurate diagnosis: detailed assessment of valve conditions to identify potential problems and plan effective interventions.
• Strategic planning: definition of the scope of maintenance based on the diagnosis, prioritizing the specific needs of the valve and following the manufacturer's recommendations to optimize resources and reduce downtime.
• Specialized intervention: complete disassembly, replacement of original spare parts, repair, reassembly and painting, using procedures with proven efficiency.
• Rigorous testing: carrying out detailed tests to check the operation, safety and integrity of the valve, facilitating its return to operation with optimal performance.
• Continuous monitoring: regular monitoring of performance after maintenance, allowing adjustments as needed and increasing long-term asset reliability.

Advantages of relying on the manufacturer for maintenance of critical valves

• In-depth knowledge: detailed understanding of the design, materials and specific tolerances of each valve, providing precise and effective interventions.
• Certified original parts: use of components designed specifically for the equipment, ensuring optimal performance and perfect compatibility.
• Standardized and optimized procedures: application of maintenance methodologies validated by the manufacturer, maximizing the efficiency and safety of the intervention.
• Reduction of operational risks: minimizing premature failures and unplanned shutdowns, protecting asset integrity and production continuity.
• Greater reliability and availability: consistent and predictable valve performance over the long term, providing maximum plant availability.
• Optimizing asset lifespan: extending the useful life of equipment through appropriate specialized maintenance practices, representing a long-term strategic investment.

Petrobras’ contracting of FLUXO and DeltaVale for the 2025 scheduled shutdown, which was the result of a bidding process, reflects a strategic vision focused on continuous improvement, operational excellence and the adoption of practices that aim to extend the useful life of assets. This approach reinforces the focus on preventing failures, maximizing efficiency and ensuring stable and productive operations in the long term.