Industrial valves are essential in the manufacturing, oil and gas, construction, and water treatment industries. These devices control the flow of fluids such as liquids, gases, and slurries by opening, closing, or partially obstructing passageways. They regulate the pressure, temperature, and volume of fluids within a system to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation.

Valves are classified into different categories based on design, function, and application. This article will discuss the most common types of industrial valves: gate, globe, ball, butterfly, check, and diaphragm valves.

Gate valves

Gate valves are used to control the flow of fluid by lifting a rectangular or round gate out of the flow path. They are typically used in fully open or closed positions, making them ideal for applications that require a tight seal and minimal pressure drop. Gate valves are commonly found in water treatment plants, power plants, and sewage systems.

Gate valves come in two types: rising and non-rising stems. Rising stem gate valves display the position of the valve visually by raising the stem above the valve when opened. In contrast, non-rising stem gate valves have the stem attached to the gate, and the stem does not move above the valve when opened.

Gate valves are known for their durability and ability to handle high-pressure systems. However, they can also be susceptible to corrosion and clogging if used with fluids containing solids or debris. Gate valves often have unique trim materials or features to protect the valve and ensure smooth operation to prevent this.

Globe valves

Globe valves are named for their spherical-shaped body and are designed to control fluid flow by moving a disc up and down against a seat. They are commonly used in applications requiring accurate flow or throttling regulation. Globe valves are often found in steam, chemical processing plants, and HVAC systems.

There are two types of globe valves: linear and angle type. Linear globe valves attach the stem to the disc, allowing for a straighter flow path when opened. Angle-type globe valves have the stem at a 90-degree angle from the flow path, making them ideal for high-pressure systems.

One of the main advantages of globe valves is their ability to control the flow rate accurately. They can also handle high or low pressure and are less prone to clogging than other valve types. However, they may not be as durable as gate valves and require regular maintenance to prevent leaks.

Ball valves

Ball valves are named for their spherical ball-shaped disc that controls fluid flow. They are one of the most versatile valve types and can be used for both on/off and throttling applications. Ball valves are commonly found in gas pipelines, water systems, and chemical processing plants.

There are two main types of ball valves: floating and trunnion ball valves. Floating ball valves use a floating ball to control the flow, while trunnion ball valves have additional support through the stem and lower portion of the valve.

Ball valves offer several advantages, including easy operation and reliable sealing. They can handle high-pressure systems and are resistant to corrosion and clogging. However, they may not be suitable for low-pressure applications as the ball can become stuck in the open position if not used regularly.

Visit https://valveman.com/valves/ball-valves/ to learn more about the different types of ball valves and their applications. Ball valves are also available in various materials, such as stainless steel, bronze, and PVC, making them suitable for multiple industries and environments.

Butterfly valves

Butterfly valves are named for their butterfly-shaped disc that controls fluid flow. They are commonly used in large-diameter piping systems and require less space than other valve types. Butterfly valves are often found in water treatment plants, chemical processing, and food and beverage industries.

There are two types of butterfly valves: wafer and lug style. Wafer-style butterfly valves have a flange on each side, while lug-style butterfly valves have threaded inserts for installation between flanges.

One advantage of butterfly valves is their compact design, making them ideal for applications with limited space. They can also handle significant flow rates and require minimal maintenance. However, they may not be suitable for high-pressure systems and can be prone to leakage if not correctly installed.

Check valves

Check valves or non-return valves, are designed to allow fluid flow in one direction and prevent backflow. They are commonly used in pumping systems and applications with varying pressure conditions. Check valves are found in most industries, including oil and gas, chemical processing, and power plants.

There are several types of check valves: swing, lift, wafer, and ball. Each type has a different design and is suitable for specific applications. For example, swing check valves use a hinged disc to control flow and are commonly used in sewage systems.

Check valves offer the advantage of preventing backflow, which can damage equipment and cause system malfunctions. They do not require external control, making them cost-effective and straightforward. However, they may be prone to clogging and unsuitable for applications requiring precise flow control.

Diaphragm valves

Diaphragm valves are named for the flexible diaphragm that controls fluid flow. They are commonly used in applications requiring precise control, such as pharmaceutical and food industries. Diaphragm valves are also found in chemical processing, water treatment plants, and semiconductor manufacturing.

There are two types of diaphragm valves: weir and straightway type. Weir diaphragm valves use a saddle-shaped disc to control flow, while straightway diaphragm valves use a flexible disc attached to the stem.

One advantage of diaphragm valves is their ability to handle corrosive and abrasive fluids without clogging. They also offer precise flow control and are suitable for high-purity applications. However, they may not be as durable as other valve types and require frequent diaphragm replacement if used in high-pressure systems.