Comprehensive Guide to Industrial Valve Types

Market Demand and Trend of Industrial Valves

Expansion of the energy sector is one of the key factors for market growth. Exploration of new resources and expansion of existing facilities in the oil and gas industry require various valves to control and manage the flow of resources. The water supply and wastewater treatment industry is also witnessing a growing demand. Stringent environmental regulations require the use of advanced valves to ensure compliance in the wastewater treatment process.

In terms of market trends, ball valves, and butterfly valves are gaining popularity due to their tight closure, easy operation, and low maintenance requirements.

The valve market is also generating a positive stimulus with a more pronounced growth trend due to the incorporation of new technologies and materials. The overall outlook for the industrial valves market remains positive despite challenges such as high initial costs and supply chain disruptions.

As it stands, manufacturers that can provide high-quality customized solutions for industrial valves will be the optimal solution for the more challenging operating conditions you face as modern industry iterates and advances!

This section describes the advantages, disadvantages and application scenarios of seven common valve types

1. Gate Valves

Design and Function: Gate valves feature a simple design where a gate or wedge is used to open or close the flow path. They are primarily used in applications where a straight-line flow of fluid and minimal restriction is needed.

Advantages:

• Simple design with fewer parts.

• Provides a very tight seal when fully closed.

• Low fluid resistance when fully open.

Disadvantages:

• Not suitable for throttling applications.

• Slow operation due to the need for full travel of the gate.

Applications:

• Water supply systems.

• Wastewater treatment.

• Oil and gas pipelines.

2. Globe Valves

Design and Function: Globe valves are designed with a movable disk-type element and a stationary ring seat in a generally spherical body. They are excellent for throttling and regulating flow.

Advantages:

• Good shut-off capabilities.

• Suitable for frequent operation.

• Better throttling performance compared to gate valves.

Disadvantages:

• Higher pressure drop compared to gate valves.

• More complex design, which can be more costly.

Applications:

• Cooling water systems.

• Fuel oil systems.

• Boiler and steam systems.

3. Check Valves

Design and Function: Check valves, or one-way valves, allow fluid to flow in only one direction, preventing backflow. They are automatic and do not require any external control.

Advantages:

• Prevents backflow and protects equipment.

• Simple and reliable operation.

• Minimal maintenance.

Disadvantages:

• Not suitable for pulsating systems.

• Limited ability to control flow rate.

Applications:

• Water and wastewater systems.

• Chemical processing.

• Power plants.

4. Ball Valves

Design and Function: Ball valves utilize a spherical disc (ball) to control flow through it. When the ball's hole is aligned with the flow, the valve is open; when it is perpendicular, the valve is closed.

Advantages:

• Very tight sealing with low torque operation.

• Quick to open and close.

• Durable and reliable.

Disadvantages:

• Not suitable for throttling applications.

• Higher cost compared to gate and globe valves.

Applications:

• Gas and liquid applications.

• Low-point drains and high-point vents.

• Process and instrumentation control.

5. Butterfly Valves

Design and Function: Butterfly valves consist of a circular disc that rotates to control the flow. They are lightweight and compact compared to other valve types.

Advantages:

• Compact design and lower weight.

• Low cost and maintenance.

• Quick operation.

Disadvantages:

• Less sealing capability compared to ball valves.

• Not suitable for high-pressure applications.

Applications:

• Water supply and distribution.

• HVAC systems.

• Food and beverage processing.

6. Pressure Relief Valves

Design and Function: Pressure relief valves are safety devices designed to protect equipment from overpressure by automatically releasing pressure when it exceeds a predetermined limit.

Advantages:

• Essential for safety and protection.

• Automatic operation.

Disadvantages:

• Requires regular maintenance and testing.

• Can be more complex and expensive.

Applications:

• Boilers and pressure vessels.

• Chemical processing plants.

• Oil and gas industries.

7. Control Valves

Design and Function: Control valves regulate the flow, pressure, temperature, and level of fluids by varying the size of the flow passage. They are essential in process control.

Advantages:

• Precise control of process parameters.

• Can be automated for remote operation.

• Suitable for a wide range of applications.

Disadvantages:

• More complex and expensive.

• Requires regular maintenance.

Applications:

• Chemical and petrochemical industries.

• Power generation.

• Water treatment plants.

Understanding the types, benefits, and applications of industrial valves is critical to selecting the right valve for your specific needs. Proper selection and maintenance of these valves ensures the efficiency and safety of your industrial system.

 Bestflow has a full range of valves and can provide all valves with customized designs, and a variety of materials with a variety of solutions to ensure that you give the most competitive price, all valves provide a two-year warranty, welcome to inquire!