In the simplest terms, a valve is a device used to control the flow of a medium — liquid, gas or solid — through a piping system. Most commonly, valves are used to stop and start the flow of media. Some valves are also able to control the rate of flow, these are commonly referred to as control valves.
Because there are so many different uses for valves, they are available in a wide range of mechanical variations. Using the appropriate valve in a given scenario means your application will run smoothly and safely, accomplishing the intended goal most efficiently.
Though there are many different valve classifications, most valves fall within three categories: rotary, linear and self-actuated.
Rotary valves utilize a rotating closure component to block flow within a piping system. Most often, this rotation is limited to 90 degrees, which is why rotary valves are also commonly referred to as quarter-turn valves. These types of valves are closed at 0 degrees and open at 90 degrees.
Some rotary valves can operate with a larger degree of rotation and include more than two positions. Common examples of rotary valve types are butterfly, plug and ball valves.
Linear valves use a flow obstructer — such as a disc, slat or diaphragm — that moves in a straight line to start, stop or adjust flow through a piping system. These valves can be separated into two distinct types: rising stem (multi-turn) and axial.
Multi-turn linear valves work particularly well in control applications and include globe valves, gate valves and needle valves. Axial valves, such as coaxial and angle seat valves, are fast-acting and used primarily in on/off process applications.
Compared to other categories of valves, linear motion valves tend to have longer cycle times than rotary valves.
Unlike linear and rotary valves, self-actuated valves do not require direct input from the operator. Instead, they use the pressure within the process line to open or close a pressure control valve. This valve type is commonly used as a pressure relief valve and only opens once maximum allowable pressure is reached within the system. As a result of this mechanism, self-actuated valves are common safety requirements in certain applications.
Common self-actuated valves include relief valves, safety valves, check valves and steam traps.
In engineering and fluid control systems, understanding the various types of valves is essential for ensuring efficient and precise regulation of fluids.
Valves play a pivotal role in ensuring the controlled movement of fluids, making them indispensable tools for engineers. This guide serves as a beacon of knowledge, illuminating the vast landscape of valves and their multifaceted functions.
As engineers, who play a role in process design and instrumentation, comprehending the intricacies of these essential components is mandatory, allowing us to properly scheming and overseeing systems with unrivalled efficiency and reliability. Without further ado, read the full explanation below!
Valves are integral components in engineering and industry, acting as the traffic controllers of fluids, whether liquids, gases, or even powders. Imagine them as the essential gatekeepers, interminably managing the flow of substances within pipelines and systems.
Their primary function is to either permit or restrict the passage of fluids, with varying degrees of control in between. The operation of valves is relatively straightforward. They work by opening and closing to regulate the flow of fluids.
When a valve is open, it allows the fluid to pass through freely; when it’s closed, it blocks the flow entirely. This simple on-off mechanism is the foundation, but many valves offer more nuanced control. Some valves can partially open or modulate to adjust the flow rate, providing precise fluid volume management.
Valves come in various types, each built to specific applications. For instance, gate valves are steady and typically used for fully opening or closing the flow. In contrast, globe valves offer fine-tuned control over flow rate and pressure.
Understanding the unique characteristics and functions of various valve types is crucial for engineers and operators, as it allows them to select the suitable valve for the job, ensuring the efficient and reliable operation of systems and processes.
Even though they have similar goals, their opening methods may vary. The way a valve opens and closes its disc determines how quickly the valve can operate and how much control you have over the flow.
According to the opening methods, valves are divided into three categories:
In addition to the mechanical motion of a valve, it’s essential to consider the actuation method. Generally, valves are divided into three main categories in most instances:
Let’s delve into the ten common types of valves used in piping and gain a deeper understanding of how each one operates.
The most commonly-used type of valve is gate valve. Gate valves work by using a flat or wedge-shaped gate that moves up and down to control the flow of fluids. When the gate is lifted, it creates a clear passage for the fluid, allowing it to flow freely. Lowering the gate shuts off the flow by blocking the path entirely. Gate valves are often used in applications where there is a need for full flow or complete shutoff.
In industrial contexts, such as those in Contromatic, forged steel gate valves from reputable manufacturers like Bonney Forge are often preferred due to their durability, resistance to high pressures and temperatures, and reliable performance, ensuring the efficient and safe regulation of fluids in demanding environments.
Check valves function as one-way valves, allowing fluid to flow in only one direction. They operate automatically, opening when fluid flows in the correct direction and closing when there is an attempt at reverse flow.
This ensures that the fluid moves in the intended direction without any backflow. If you need robust check valves, try using the steel check valves offered by Bonney Forge. Its resistance to various fluids does not prevent steel check valves from working optimally.
Bypass valves provide an alternate route for fluid within a system by diverting a portion of the flow. Operators can divert or regulate the flow by adjusting the valve, offering flexibility for system maintenance and adjustments.
These valves are essential for managing the flow in complex systems effectively. Furthermore, the bypass valve usually has the same features as the control valve, in terms of valve and seat.
Pinch valves control the flow of fluids by pinching or squeezing a flexible tube. When the tube is compressed, it closes off the passage, stopping the flow. Releasing the tube allows the fluid to pass through again. These valves are particularly useful when handling abrasive or corrosive fluids.
Pinch valve usually applied for medium fluid which is abrasive, corrosive or granular. These valves are cost-effective, reliable, and easy to use, making them desirable in various industrial applications. If you all wanna take a look more for what we have, kindly seek our Flowrox Pinch Valve.
Ball valve is typically a shut off valve that controls the flow of a liquid or gas by rotating the ball a quarter turn (90 degrees) around its axis, the medium can flow through or is blocked. When the bore aligns with the pipe, fluid can pass through; when the ball is turned perpendicular, it blocks the flow completely.
Ball valves are designed to meet the requirements of the process industries with improved process safety and efficiency. Contromatic as the sole agent of ValmetTM could introduce you to our wide range of ball valves.
Globe valves have a globe-shaped body with a plug or disc that moves up and down to regulate flow. When the plug is raised, the flow path opens, allowing fluid to pass. Lowering the plug restricts the flow, providing precise control over flow rate and pressure. Globe valves are often preferred in applications where accuracy is crucial.
For those seeking reliable and robust steel globe valves, Bonney Forge offers a range of high-quality options available through Contromatic. These valves from Bonney Forge are engineered to withstand extreme conditions and ensure long-lasting performance in critical industrial processes, making them a trusted choice for fluid control solutions.
Plug valves operate using a cylindrical or tapered plug that can be rotated to control flow. When the plug aligns with the pipe, fluid flows freely, and when it’s turned to block the path, the flow is stopped. These versatile valves are commonly used in chemical and petrochemical industries.
Butterfly valves are kind of quarter-turn rotational motion valves that are used in pipelines to shut-off flow. Butterfly valves employ a circular disc, often referred to as the butterfly, which rotates to control the flow.
When the disc is parallel to the pipe, fluid flows easily. Rotating the disc perpendicular to the pipe blocks the flow. These valves are lightweight and are particularly suitable for applications with high flow rates.
Solenoid valves are electromechanical devices that use an electric current to control the opening and closing of the valve. When an electrical signal is applied, it activates a solenoid, which in turn either opens or closes the valve.
The specific purpose of a solenoid valve is expressed by its circuit function. Solenoid valves are commonly used in automation and control systems, offering precise and rapid control over fluid flow. The product range we could offer is ASCO Emerson the worldwide leader in the design and manufacture of quality solenoid valves.
Diaphragm valves use a flexible diaphragm to regulate flow. When the diaphragm flexes, it either seals off the passage, blocking the flow, or allows fluid to pass through. These valves are ideal for applications where minimizing fluid contact with valve components is essential, making them suitable for use in industries such as pharmaceuticals and food processing.
If you search for different types of valves to meet your engineering needs, look no further than Contromatic. We offer a range of exceptional valve solutions, including those from Bonney Forge and Smith, renowned for their reliability and effectiveness in diverse industries.
Whether your project demands precision, durability, or versatility, Contromatic has valve solutions that can elevate your engineering endeavours to the highest standards of excellence. Visit our website today and discover the valve solutions that will take your systems to the next level. Don’t compromise on quality; choose Contromatic for all your valve requirements!
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