Valves are a vital piece of equipment in any piping system, helping you to regulate the speed, pressure and direction of flow. They are not, however, one-size-fits-all. If you want your system to work safely and effectively, you need to choose the right stock valves.
Below we describe four possible industrial valves, but many others are available depending on the industry, process, substance and other conditions. What they have in common is the ability to open, partially close or fully close a pipe or other passageway.
Globe Valves
These valves work by placing a disc or plug that moves next to a ring seat that doesn’t. This modulates the flow of liquids, even at high temperatures. Globe valves are popular because of the minimal leakage, plus they can be fully opened or closed quickly.
Butterfly Valves
Butterfly valves are easy to use as all you need to do is twist the handle by 90 degrees. Partial rotations partially modify flow, and when fully closed the disc sits vertically to it. These valves are reliable, low maintenance, non-disruptive to install and allow a good degree of control.
Ball Valves
Small and low maintenance, ball valves are often the most cost-effective of the stock valves, but they are more effective with gasses rather than liquids. Their name comes from their ball-like shape. Ball valves can fully or partially block a pipe.
Check Valves
Also known as non-return valves (NRV), these only allow single-direction flow without reversal. This can be useful as they prevent backflow which might disrupt processes or damage equipment. They can also stand up to high pressure.
Each of these valves has its own advantages and disadvantages. You need to consider carefully before you make your decision about which valve is best suited to your purpose.
