ISIS Fluid Control - Tolboom: A Friction-Free Innovation in Valve Technology

Wear and tear is an unfortunate reality in many valve applications, especially when you’re dealing with abrasion, high temperatures, high pressures, and repeated cycling. For years, rising stem ball valves have provided a partial solution, offering non-contact seat sealing. But they have not been without drawbacks. Stem wear and frequent maintenance remain ongoing challenges. That’s where Tolboom steps in. 

At ISIS Fluid Control, we’re proud to be supporting the next generation of valve innovation. Tolboom is a reimagined, friction-free metal-seated ball valve, developed by the original inventor of the rising stem design. It brings together the benefits of contact-free sealing with the simplicity and efficiency of 90-degree operation.

Rather than relying on sliding or scraping movements that inevitably lead to wear, the valve’s actuation is entirely frictionless. This not only prevents damage to the seat but also allows for smooth, repeatable performance, even in the most demanding environments. With fewer moving parts under stress, the result is a valve that’s reliable, longer-lasting, and far easier to maintain.

Importantly, it is designed to pair with compact quarter-turn actuators. The friction-free mechanism means these actuators experience minimal resistance, allowing for rapid, responsive operation without the strain often associated with high-performance valves. This not only enhances reliability but can also reduce the cost and complexity of installation.

Built for industries like oil and gas, chemical processing, and power generation, the Tolboom excels in applications that involve abrasive media, rapid thermal shifts, or frequent cycling, places where other valves struggle to survive.

The real proof, of course, is in performance. When one of the world’s largest refineries challenged us to demonstrate the valve’s capabilities, we delivered. During rigorous testing, 250 break-to-open cycles at 555°C and 40 Bar gas pressure, both 12” and 16” Class 600 valves equipped with our patented double-seat design passed with flying colours. The test, conducted to API 6D and ISO 15848-1 standards and fully witnessed by the end user, showed minimal leakage well within expectations. Even after 250 cycles, teardown inspections revealed no damage to the core components.

In short, Tolboom is more than an upgrade, it’s a true step forward in valve technology. By solving long-standing industry problems with smart engineering and robust testing, we believe it’s the right choice for critical operations where safety, reliability, and performance come first.

To learn more about the valve and how it could support your operations, contact the team at ISIS Fluid Control.

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