First of all, we have to know what a valve is? The answer is easy, as Valve is a mechanism that regulates, directs, or controls the flow of fluid by opening, closing, or partially blocking passages.
Generally, valves are used to stop and start the flow, varying or throttling the amount of fluid flow, controlling the direction of fluid flow, regulating the downstream system or process pressure, Relieving component or piping overpressure.
Valves are based on four types of movements and six basic designs. Here we highlight five basic and most common design valves.
Globe Valve
Globe type design valves are working on obturating movement. A globe valve is a linear motion valve used to stop, start, and regulate fluid flow. During the operating of the globe valve, the disc moves perpendicularly to the seat.
Advantages of a Globe valve
Globe valve is leak-proof best shut-off valve, recommended for throttling applications. It has a reasonably shorter stroke length.
Disadvantages of a Globe valve
Flow path causes a significant pressure drop
Globe valves are most costlier in comparison to other valves
Plug Valve
Plug type valves based on rotating movement. A plug valve is a quarter-turn rotary motion valve that uses a conical obturator or plug to stop or start the flow. There are two types of plug valves available one is lubricated plug valves and non-lubricated plug valves.
Benefits of Plug Valve
Fast action, requires only quarter turn and straight flow through the valve
The Downside of the Plug valve
Temperature is limited by the lubricant used in the lubricated valve and sleeve material (PTFE)
Sleeved plug require maintenance
Ball Valve
Ball-type valve also based on rotating movement. A ball-shaped disc rotates quarter-turn to stop or start the flow. The ball valve resembles the plug valve in many ways. When a port in the ball is in line, it allows the flow whereas when you rotate the valve 90 degrees, the solid part of the ball stops the flow.
Advantages of Ball valve
Only quarter-turn requires it to operate so it provides fast action, Suitable for throttling applications, Operating torque will be less, Possible tight shut off
Disadvantages of Ball Valve
Temperature is limited by the seat material, Difficult to clean it leads to contamination
Butterfly Valve
A butterfly valve is a quarter-turn rotary motion valve that uses a flat disc to stop or start the flow. Butterfly valves work in rotating motion.
Advantages of Butterfly Valve
Only quarter-turn requires it to operate so it provides fast action, Suitable for throttling applications, Operating torque will be less, Possible tight shutoff, compact in size
Disadvantages of Butterfly Valve
Temperature is limited by the seat material, pressure drop due to the presence of a disc in the bore.
Gate Valve
A gate valve is a linear motion valve where the wedge is perpendicular to flow to start or stop the fluid flow in piping.
Advantages of Gate valve
Best suitable for on-off service, gate valves working slowly which prevent fluid hammer and subsequent damage to the pipe, it is bidirectional.
Disadvantages of Gate valve
Not suitable for throttling applications as it is prone to vibration in the partially open position, Slow acting, and needs a long opening time, it is bulky rather than other valves.
Diaphragm Valve
A diaphragm is a linear motion valve that is used to start and stop fluid flow. The name is taken from its flexible disc that mates with a seat placed in the open area at the top of the valve to form a seal.
Advantages of the diaphragm valve
Best suited for slurry or solid matters, Valve components are isolated from the process fluid, No need for gland packing arrangement.
Disadvantages of the diaphragm valve
Not suitable for high-temperature applications, The diaphragm becomes worn out easily and requires regular maintenance.
Hope you got the advantage and disadvantages of Ball Valve, Butterfly Valve, Plug Valve &, etc.
Aira Euro Automation is a leading Valve Manufacturer in India & they love to share valve knowledge with engineers. A valve is a device to control fluid flow and it operates by a pneumatic actuator, motorized actuator, and manual.
