When we look at piping systems externally, we generally see the set up as a whole rather than as many working components individually. But there's that one important that plays a very crucial role. Those are known as the valves. They act like a source that regulates the flow of fluids as well as cutting off supply completely if required.
Industrial valves are of various types, with each
based on a different principle and performing a different function. Right here,
we will learn about the 9 most common types of industrial valves.
1. Ball valves - Metal seated ball valves is a
hollowed-out ball-shaped disk that is fitted inside a pipe. The Metal seated
ball valve starts and stops flow by the quarter turn the rotational motion of this
disk.
2. Plug valves - plug valves also called cock
valves. It uses a cylindrical plug with a passage to block, start or control
the flow.
3. Butterfly valves - It is another valve that uses
rotational motion. Metal seated ball valves and plug valves work in the same
way. It only uses a thin-disk instead of a ball-shaped unit or a cylindrical
plug. They are quick to use, lightweight and easily adaptable.
4. Gate valves - This type of valve is used in a
tap. Opening and closing of the valve involves raising and lowering metal gates
respectively. With gate valves, the passage can be either fully closed or fully
open. They are also known as sluice valves.
5. Globe valves - Globe valve is similar to a gate
valve in that it uses linear motion for continuous flow. The difference is in
the use of a disk instead of a wedge. It can also be managed to lower or
increase flow. One of the advantages of a globe valve is that it does not leak
as much as other valves.
6. Pinch valves - The construction of a pinch valve
is like a sleeve of molded rubber or synthetic material. The flow path in the
open position is not obstructed. The flow is cut off by lowering a bar or gate.
7. Diaphragm valves - It works similar to pinch
valves. A flexible diaphragm is inserted to it fastens it to the seat blocking
the flow. Its advantage is that it creates an extremely tight seal and is used
in applications that have a high requirement.
8. Relief and Safety valves - As fluids pass through
the system, there is a possibility of a sudden increase in pressure, which if
not checked can be hazardous. This is used if you are dealing with hazardous
fluids.
9. Check valves - Check valves are used for
unidirectional flow of fluids. They do not allow it to flow back.