Did you know that the success of your dust collection system is directly related to your choice of material handling valve? A recent article published by Powder Bulk Solids magazine highlighted several important considerations for material handling valve selection, especially in reference to conveying applications, including material characteristics (e.g., fine, course, sticky, etc.), conveying parameters, actuator specifications and environmental factors. Because most facilities function at a fast pace, plant engineers should determine the time and cost associated with routine or emergency maintenance of a material handling valve—especially for more demanding applications. Before selecting a material handling valve, consider the following key factors: service life, ease of maintenance and accessibility, and the downtime involved in rebuilding a unit if it fails. Planning ahead for these maintenance issues will prevent plant staff from becoming overly burdened and conserve valuable company resources.