Industrial valves are often hidden from view but play a critical role in how machinery and other devices work. These types of valves have been in use for over a hundred years and are used for various purposes. Without them, many industries would grind to a halt and society as we know it would be a different place. So what are the best industrial valves and their applications?
What Is an Industrial Valve?
Industrial valves are devices that control or regulate fluid flow such as gas, liquid or slurry by closing, opening or partial closure of passageways. They are used to control high pressure in challenging environments and are the vital components in piping that transport liquids, gases and vapours.
Best Industrial Valves in 2021
- Schlumberger Limited. Schlumberger produces several types of valves. Their Cameron valve is a core brand used to direct, measure and control gas and oil flow from wellhead to flow lines and refineries.
- Emerson Electric Ltd. Emerson produces ball valves, angle valves and more. In addition, their Cryogenic high-performance butterfly valve is issued for extreme temperature situations.
- Flowserve. Flowserve has several valves, including ball valves, and can be custom-made for specific applications.
- Crane Co. Crane Co specialises in heavy industry, and their high performing valves are used in the oil and mining sector.
- IMI. IMI makes a range of industrial valves and is a world leader in compressor anti-surge valves.
Uses of Valves and their Applications According to their Industries
Bulk Material Valves. Bulk material valves control the flow of material between hoppers and chutes, so they are common in places like food production. Common types of valves used here include butterfly valves, rotary valves, and diverter valves.
Diverter Valves. A diverter valve controls and redirects flow from one inlet to multiple outlets. They can also bring two flow lines together to converge into one. This type of valve handles liquids, powders, solids, and slurries and is used in the chemical industry and in food production. The valves are constructed to withstand erosion or damage from the material flowing through them.
Boiler blowdown valves. This type of valve keeps boilers working by removing dirt and sediment that collects as a consequence of their function. Usually, globe valves are used for this purpose as they use a linear motion to operate. Globe valves are seen in the hydrocarbon industry and power generation and can be used in environments where there are temperature extremes.
Process Valves. Process valves are used in industry where several sequences need to be controlled, so they end up in one outlet. They are often butterfly valves, two-way ball valves, plug valves, and three-way ball valves. The process is controlled by valves and can be continuous or intermittent. Examples in industrial settings where this is used include pneumatic conveying systems, slurry applications, and lock hoppers.
Cartridge Valves. This type of valve controls flow in pneumatic fluid and hydraulic power systems. They can be plugged into a standard manifold and are used in pressure control and directional control systems.
Solenoid Valves. Solenoid valves are mainly used in the oil and air industry and are electromechanical in nature. They are used to control flow remotely.
Safety Relief Valves. This type of valve protects pressurised systems or equipment during overpressure situations. Its role is to automatically release gas, liquid or vapour from a pressurised system to prevent it from becoming over pressurised. Its function is critical in avoiding catastrophic situations and explosions.
Balancing Valves. A balancing valve controls the flow of liquid or gas through a system and ensures it flows at the correct rate. Examples of where this type of valve is used are in refrigeration systems. The balancing function uses hydraulics and is vital for temperature and pressure control.
Air Valves. Air valves are used in water systems and are designed to release pockets of air that can accumulate and cause blockages to the flow. They are commonly used in plumbing systems.
If you are unsure where to start with the correct valve for your industrial project, reach out and call us for advice or to get a quote.
Other Valve Features
Valves are designed to either stop the flow of something, regulate pressure and flow rate, or keep a system flowing. They also control the direction of a flow. Gate valves are the most common and have a linear flow mechanism. Butterfly valves have a wing-like motion that operates at right angles to the flow. Valves can be custom made, so they are resistant to corrosives and damage from chemicals through being exposed to them.
If you would like to know more about industrial valves or have a request for your business, reach out and call John Valves today for expert advice on the type of device needed for your company.