If you want to regulate any industrial process, you need valves.
But what are the different types of valves required? How can they be used in different industrial processes?
Industrial valves are used in many industrial applications to control the flow of fluids and gases. They come in many different types and sizes to suit the specific job they need to do. Valves come in manual, mechanical, and automated varieties.
Read along to learn about different types of industrial valves.
1. Check Valves
Check valves are used to allow fluid to flow in one direction and prevent it from flowing in reverse. This valve uses a spring to reset after the pressure on one side is released, allowing the valve to reopen. It is usually associated with pumps and hydrants.
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2. Butterfly Valves
Butterfly valves are designed to regulate fluids in pipelines or process vessels. They feature a disk-shaped closure element that swings between two semi-circular seating, capable of opening and closing quickly via an actuation system.
They are suited for applications where high flow rates and quick shutoff is required and where minimal pressure drop is desired.
3. Ball Valves
Ball valves consist of a hhollowed-outspherical object, known as a ‘ball,’ which is attached to a handle. This allows it to be opened or closed by rotating it using the handle. This type of valve can be used for on/off or throttling operations and are known for their durability and low maintenance.
4. Diaphragm Valves
Diaphragm valves are composed of a solid body, bonnet, and a flexible diaphragm sandwiched between the two parts. When the diaphragm is compressed, the valve opens and allows for controlling and regulating flow and full closure. It is well-suited for applications that offer tight sealing and precise control of flow.
5. Gate Valves
Gate valves are characterized by a gate or wedge-shaped disk, which is either raised or lowered using a stem attached to a handwheel. These are the most cost-effective choice in certain applications, such as low-pressure steam systems.
6. Globe Valves
Globe valves have a cone-shaped closure element, often referred to as the plug or disc, which is lifted up or down to control the flow of a substance. This design of the valve is ideal for quick shut-off or throttling and regulating capabilities, making them ideal for gases or liquids with higher pressures.
7. Reducing Valves
Reducing valves come in many types, such as pressure-reducing, pressure-relief, and flow-control valves. They’re also equipped with two pressure gauges to verify the exact pressure of the inlet side and the outlet side.
8. Needle Valves
Needle valves are designed to control flow with the movement of a tapered needle-like stem inside the valve. They are used to precisely control the flow of gases and liquids and are most often used when precise, steady flow and accurate metering are necessary.
9. Relief Valves
Relief valves are used to protect pressure vessels and other systems by providing pressure relief. This can be automatic, as when pressure passes a predetermined set point, or manual, as when a valve is opened to allow flow to vent.
Select the Proper Valves
In conclusion, there are a variety of industrial valves to choose from, each having unique characteristics dependent on specific application necessities.
Be familiar with the various types and features to maximize system performance.
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