Understanding the Different Types of Industrial Valves: A Comprehensive Guide

What is an Industrial Valve?

Industrial valves have existed for centuries, evolving to suit specific needs and requirements. While most are used for opening and closing, others are used for starting, shutting off, and regulating the flow of liquid or gas within a system. Regardless of their application, valves are crucial components to consider during routine maintenance to prevent potential systemic issues.

Types of Industrial Valves:

Gate valve

A gate valve is designed for a specific on/off approach. These valves are structured rather simply, with most of the internal components at the top portion of the body. Rather than regulating the flow of contents, the gate valve directly blocks the flow. To operate, the stem of the valve must be completely rotated clockwise to close or clockwise to open. Inside, the valve contains a plate-like or wedged-shaped barrier, the gate, that can be inserted in the line of flow. While rotating the valve stem, the gate will move up or downwards to intercept the flow. Gate valves are best suited for applications such as wastewater, natural liquids, or conditions in which either full flow or no flow is needed. 

Globe valve

Globe valves are engineered to stop, start, and regulate fluid flow. The valve gets its name from its globe-like structure. Internally, the movable disc, or the plug, can be adjusted to the stationary ring set. To do so, the valve can either be manually operated by using the handwheel attached, or automatically, using actuators or sliding shafts. Globe valves are universally the most popular industrial valves, as they can best help to minimize leakage, provide a shorter closing time, are easy to repair, and tend to have a long lifecycle before needing to be replaced. The general usage of these valves includes high-temperature applications and regulated flow applications. You will most likely see globe valves being used in settings such as feedwater systems, cooling water systems, or wastewater plants.

Ball valve

As a simple design, ball valves are created for on/off flow actions. The flow rate can be adjusted by partially opening or closing the valve. Externally, the valve is controlled by a handle. When the handle is parallel, it is open, versus when the handle is perpendicular, the valve is closed off. Internally, the start or stop of the flow is controlled by the hollow ball-shaped disc. When the opening of the hollowed ball is in line with the flow, the valve allows fluids or gases to pass through. When the opening is turned 90 degrees, the flow is then stopped. The simple design of the ball valve makes it suitable for fluid, gaseous, or vapor applications. These valves are low-maintenance replacements and are great for quick and efficient operations, saving time and labor.

Butterfly valve

A butterfly valve is designed to regulate, stop, or start the flow of a substance. As part of the quarter-turn valve family, the valve operates with a rotating metal disc. This disc is positioned perpendicular to the stream when the valve is closed. Unlike other valves, a butterfly valve’s disc always intercepts the flow, causing pressure changes for any position of the valve. Internally, a rod feeds through the center of a disc, which is connected to the actuator that controls the motion of the disc. The butterfly valve gets its name from its unique movement, which is like a wing in flight. The rod is like that of the butterfly’s body, while the disc is like the butterfly’s wings. Not only is the structure similar, but the movement of the substance is like that of a butterfly, with the wings moving up and down in a 90-degree motion. These valves are best known for their high accuracy and reliability, making them well-suited for fluid-handling power applications, vacuum services, or energy production.

Check valve

Check valves are designed for a one-direction-only flow. Its primary purpose is to prevent backflow in the system. Therefore, these valves are only activated by the active flowing material moving throughout the piping. The pressure of the material then activates the valve, opening it up and preventing the backflow. While this type of valve is quite simple, there is potential for reversal of flow or cases in which the disc can get stuck in the open position. These valves are often used in wastewater management systems, manufacturing processes, and gas lines.

 

Maintenance Tips

Here are a few tips for maintaining and repairing your industrial valves:

• Always relieve the pressure before starting repair or maintenance to avoid accidents or further damage to the system.
• Run a full visual inspection of the system, looking for any signs of wear, corrosion, or leaks.
• Apply lubrication to the threads and nuts to reduce friction and wear. Always rely on the manufacturer’s guidelines when applying lubrication to prevent future damage.
• Replace worn-out hardware, such as bolts and nuts. New bolts and nuts will help to prevent leakages and keep the system intact.
• Using the appropriate tools, clean up the valve or system by removing dirt, rust, or scale.

 

Industrial Valves at Iron Wing

At Iron Wing, we carry a large range of industrial valves for various industries like oil & gas, chemical processing, water treatment, and manufacturing. Our inventory includes valves from Rexroth GMBH, Denison, Apollo Valve, and many more!

 

All of our parts are in stock and ready to ship to help minimize downtime on your machine. Browse our many categories, or search our inventory by part #, description, or manufacturer to find the parts you need.