Learn More About Pipeline Valve

What Are Pipeline Valves?

Pipeline valves are mechanical devices used to control the flow of fluids (e.g., gasses, liquids, or solid particles) in pipelines, and are commonly used in a variety of industries, the familiar ones being oil and gas, chemical, water supply, wastewater treatment, and electric power. They range from simple manual valves to complex automatic control systems.

Pipeline valves are mainly used to control the flow of fluids by adjusting the degree of opening and closing of the valve, changing the access section and the direction of media flow, and ensuring that the pressure in the pipeline is maintained within the safety range.

They can also be used to shut off the flow of fluid in specific areas of a pipeline system when it needs maintenance or overhaul.

In general, pipeline valves have abundant needs for use in flow control, shut-off and opening, pressure regulation, backflow prevention, diverting and merging, overflow and pressure relief, and pipe cleaning (some special types of valves (e.g. pipe cleaning valves) are used to send and receive pipe cleaners to clean the inside of the pipeline), and so on.

It usually works by moving parts like gates, balls, or butterflies. These parts turn the flow on and off. They also change the flow path area to control fluid movement.

Of course, different types of pipeline valves each have unique operating principles to meet various fluid control needs.

• Gate valves move up and down using a valve flap. This allows them to fully open or close the flow. They are ideal for situations where complete opening and closing is needed.

• Ball valves in pipelines use a rotating sphere to control flow quickly and enjoy widespread use for their high efficiency.

• Butterfly valves regulate the flow by rotating the disc, a simple structure suitable for large diameter pipelines. Unlike butterfly valves, globe valves use a disc that moves up and down to control flow;

• Check valves rely on fluid pressure to open and close automatically to prevent backflow.

Common Types Of Pipeline Valves

Experts generally divide valves into several types. These include gate valves, globe valves, ball valves, and butterfly valves. Other types are check valves, pressure-reducing valves, and safety valves. Traps, regulating valves, and bottom valves also exist.

Additionally, we have filters, sewage valves, instrumentation valves, piston valves, throttle valves, diaphragm valves, and plug valves. But the common and most used are the first 6 kinds.

1. Power industry

In power plants, valves are used to control the flow of steam, cooling water and fuel. Common types of valves include gate, globe and ball valves. These valves can handle high temperatures and pressures. This helps keep the power generation process safe and efficient.

When choosing valves for thermal power projects, alloy steel ball valves offer great corrosion and high-temperature resistance. Selecting the right valves makes the system more reliable and lowers maintenance needs.

2. Waterworks

Waterworks use valves to regulate water flow and pressure. The sealing performance of the valves is critical in this process. Rubber seals and elastomer materials are often used to prevent leaks and ensure a tight seal.

3. Oil and gas production

In the oil and gas industry, pipework is subjected to extremely high pressures. Valves such as ball valves, check valves and special globe valves are widely used in wellhead equipment and other production facilities to regulate flow and prevent backflow.

4. Wastewater treatment

Wastewater treatment plants use low-pressure piping and valves to treat waste. Common valves used in this process are check valves and iron gates. They have simple requirements in the treatment process. This helps manage wastewater flow effectively.

5. Commercial buildings

In commercial buildings, piping systems are used to transport tap water, wastewater and fluids required for fire protection systems. To ensure proper functioning of the fire protection system, we must use the right type of valves to meet the pressure and safety requirements.

Pipeline valves are vital components of pipeline systems and are responsible for controlling the flow of fluids or gasses.

When selecting the right pipeline valve, several factors need to be considered, including pressure and temperature ratings, flow characteristics, valve size and weight, choice of material, actuation method, compliance with relevant standards, cost-effectiveness, reliability and durability, and ease of maintenance.

Bafaw is a valve manufacturer that can provide professional industrial pipeline valves for various enterprises, providing unique product solutions according to the specific needs of enterprises, welcome to consult!