Gate valves are primarily used as shut-off devices, allowing the medium to flow straight through with minimal pressure loss. These valves are typically employed in situations where frequent opening and closing are not required, and they are kept either fully open or fully closed. They are not suitable for throttling or regulating flow, as partial opening may cause vibration of the gate, potentially damaging the sealing surfaces and leading to erosion from the flowing medium.
The main difference between various types of gate valves lies in the design of their sealing elements. Common types include wedge gate valves, parallel gate valves, parallel double-gate valves, and wedge double-gate valves. Among these, wedge and parallel gate valves are the most widely used.
Globe valves, on the other hand, have a stem that moves perpendicular to the seat. Their short stroke provides reliable shut-off, making them ideal for both cutting off and adjusting flow. Once the disc is lifted, it no longer contacts the seat, reducing wear and enabling easy maintenance without removing the entire valve from the pipeline. However, the flow direction changes through the valve, resulting in higher resistance compared to gate valves.
Common globe valve types include angle globe valves, which reduce pressure drop by changing flow direction once; DC (or Y-type) globe valves, which minimize turbulence and pressure loss; and plunger globe valves, where the disc operates using a plunger mechanism with elastic seals for improved performance.
Butterfly valves feature a disc that rotates within the pipe, requiring only a 90-degree turn to open or close. They are compact, lightweight, and offer good flow control, especially when fully open. Seals can be flexible or metal-based, with each offering different advantages in terms of temperature range and durability. Butterfly valves are commonly used in large-diameter applications and are available in flanged or clamp styles.
Ball valves, derived from plug valves, use a spherical body with a bore that aligns with the flow path when fully open. They require only a 90-degree rotation to operate, providing tight shut-off with low resistance. Modern designs allow ball valves to also function as throttling valves. They are suitable for a wide range of media, including water, solvents, gases, and more.
Check valves prevent backflow by automatically opening when fluid flows in one direction and closing when reversed. Swing check valves use a hinged flap, while lift check valves rely on a disc that rises and falls within a guide. Both types help maintain unidirectional flow and are essential in many industrial systems.
Control valves are used to regulate pressure, flow, and other process parameters. They adjust the flow area between the disc and seat, and can be either self-driven (e.g., pressure relief valves) or power-driven (e.g., electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic). These valves play a critical role in maintaining system stability and efficiency.
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