Every plant has a shelf of valves for equipment that no longer exists. A discontinued actuator model, a trim set for a body that was replaced, a spare bought for a unit that was decommissioned in 2011. None of it is broken. All of it is unusable on that site.
The market for obsolete stock is real, because somebody else is still running that equipment. The key is identification: part numbers, nameplates and photographs. If the labels are gone, the items lose most of their value, which is why we ask for photographs rather than descriptions.
The practical sequence
What happens, in order
What we need
The short version
A rough list, a location and a date. That is enough to start. If there are photographs, the review is faster and the number is more confident.
We do not need the valves cleaned, sorted or labelled. We do not need a data sheet for each item. And we do not need you to decide which items are worth selling before you send the list — that is the review.
Mixed lots and partial assemblies are included. If the material is awkward, unidentified or incomplete, say so and include it. A lot that describes its own problems is faster to price than one that does not.
Questions sellers ask
Is obsolete stock worth anything?
Often a great deal, because the equipment is still in service somewhere. The value depends on identification, not age.
What if the part numbers are missing?
Photographs help. Material, pattern and size can often be established from the body.
Do you buy single obsolete items?
Sometimes, if the item is substantial. Otherwise they are bought as part of a lot.