Valves are mechanical or automated devices that can start, stop, or regulate fluid flow in a system. Besides controlling the flow rate, these valves can also help regulate the pressure of the fluids within the system. Vacuum Packaging plays a big role in packing your product before you ship it to your customer for a safer package, it will develop an image based on what the pack looks like.
Industrial valves vary significantly in size, design, functionality, and application. Some valves are more popular than others, thanks to their versatility, design, durability, and even affordability. Popular industrial valves include ball valves, check valves, gate valves, solenoid valves, and pressure valves. We have discussed all these valves and more in the sections below.
Ball valves
Ball valves control fluid flow by allowing the medium to flow entirely, partially, or blocking it completely by using a rotating ball with an orifice through it. These valves find applications in industrial operations due to their reliable air-tight sealing when in the shut-off position. Ball valves are commonly used in high-intensity industries such as oil and gas to control high pressure and high-temperature liquids and gases. They are operated either manually, electrically, or pneumatically.
Butterfly valves
Butterfly valves are cost-effective options for on/off operations and regulating flow. They are simple, easy-to-use valves operated manually, electronically, or pneumatically. Butterfly valves can be used with various mediums, including liquids, gases, and slurries, both corrosive and non-hazardous, within a wide temperature range.
Gate valves
Gate valves operate in either fully open or fully closed positions. They come in varying designs suitable for different applications. For instance, the parallel slide gate valves are suitable for high-temperature applications, while the slab gate valves are ideal for transporting natural gas, liquids, and crude oil. Additionally, parallel expanding gate valves are best used as isolation valves in power plants, while bock valves are commonly used in processing plants.
Solenoid valves
These are electromechanically controlled valves that open, close, mix or divert flow through the valve’s orifice. Due to their quick response time, durability, good sealing properties, and reliability, these valves are commonly used in most fluid control applications. It’s worth noting that solenoid valves need a pressure differential to open and are only used to control clean liquids and gases.
Check valves
Check valves or non-return valves allow fluids to flow in only one direction. These valves work automatically, and they do not need any manual intervention. Most check valves come with a small spring that closes the valve. The latter is kept open by the medium pressure in the forward direction. It’s worth noting that a minimum pressure (cracking pressure) is required to open the valve.
Pneumatic pinch valves
Pneumatically controlled pinch valves are shut-off valves that control corrosive, abrasive or fibrous products. These valves are robust enough to ensure optimal operations when using fluids containing solids such as pellets, granules, gravel, fine glass fragments, etc. Pinch valves come in varying designs, and you always want to choose one with suitable body material, connection ports, and sleeve material.
Needle valves
Needle valves are on-off valves used to regulate the flow rate accurately. They are manually operated and often used as leak-proof valves ideal for clean fluid media with relatively low flow rates. Closing and opening the control knob cause a slight change in the needle’s position; hence there are reduced cases of water hammer.
Angle seat valves
With this type of valve, a spindle located under an angle moves the valve’s seal in a linear motion away from or towards the valve seat. The seal is often Teflon, while the housing is usually stainless steel or brass. Angle seat valves come with high KV value and flow capacity, plus they are durable and quite reliable. They can operate in either direction and are used with liquids, gases, and vacuum.
Actuated control valves
These valves are used for open, close, and flow control applications. Control valves are equipped with integrated electronics to take control and system integration easier and more convenient. The valves are either controlled by an input digital or analog signal. Additionally, the operating pressure, temperature, and orifice sizes vary, so you want to choose what works best.
Coaxial valves
These are electromechanically controlled valves used in applications where regular solenoid valves aren’t ideal. For instance, they are compatible with abrasive or viscous gases and liquids and can handle high pressure and flow rate applications. A common type of coaxial valve is a 2-way, normally closed coaxial valve made either of brass or stainless steel.
Safety and relief valves
These valves are designed to protect the system from overpressure situations. Relief valves provide pressure relief by opening once the system pressure exceeds the set/predetermined pressure. On the other hand, safety valves play a critical role in emergencies, e.g., when a system’s relief valve or other valves have failed.
Choosing a valve for your industrial needs
Now that you know the different types of industrial valves, you want to move ahead and pick the best product that meets your unique needs. When selecting an industrial valve, remember to check the valve’s operating principle, material specifications, pressure & temperature ranges, connection style, and voltage ratings. Similarly, ensure the valve’s features and certification meets your application requirements.
