When repacking valve stuffing boxes, what should you ensure about the packing?

When repacking valve stuffing boxes, ensuring that the packing aligns correctly with others is essential for maintaining proper sealing and functionality. Correct alignment allows the packing to compress evenly, which is critical for preventing leaks. If the packing is misaligned, it can lead to uneven wear, increased friction, and even failure of the sealing capability. Proper alignment also helps in distributing the load evenly, which enhances the overall performance of the valve and prolongs its lifespan.

The other options do not contribute positively to the effectiveness of the valve stuffing box. For instance, packing that is too tight could impede the valve's movement and cause unnecessary wear on the components. A dry packing may lead to inadequate sealing and increased leakage, as lubrication is often necessary for achieving optimal performance. Additionally, while using brand new material is generally preferred, the focus should be on the proper alignment and condition of the packing to ensure a reliable seal.