For what purpose must valve packing be suitable?

Valve packing must be suitable to prevent corrosion and ensure safety under operational conditions. In a compressed natural gas system, where the environment can be demanding and the materials can be susceptible to various stresses, it is crucial that the valve packing can withstand the pressures and temperatures without failing. Proper packing material also provides a seal to prevent gas leaks, which is vital for both safety and operational integrity. If the packing is not suitable, it could lead to corrosion of the valve components and ultimately cause failures that could have serious safety implications.

While aesthetic appeal, performance enhancement, and ease of manufacturing are all important factors in the design and function of valves, their primary purpose in this context relates directly to safety and preventing operational hazards.