Cavitation is common, so many control valves can withstand a certain amount of time. However, prolonged exposure to cavitation can severely damage the control valve.
When steam bubbles burst, they implode, causing pitting of the Valve’s metal. Over time, this wear can lead to severe corrosion, which can lead to valve failure.
Cavitation also produces high levels of noise and vibration, which can damage not only valves but also pipes, instruments, and other equipment.
For diagnosis and mitigation context, see control-valve cavitation basics, incipient cavitation, and control-valve noise reduction techniques.
