Are you interested in learning more about electric actuators for valves? Look no further than The Ultimate Guide to Electric Actuators for Valves!
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This comprehensive guide offers a detailed overview of electric actuators for valves, including their uses, benefits, and types. You'll also learn about the different components that make up an electric actuator, such as motor types, gear ratios, and limit switches.
Not only that but The Ultimate Guide to Electric Actuators for Valves also covers the installation and maintenance of electric actuators, providing valuable tips and tricks. With this guide, you'll have all the information you need to choose and maintain the suitable electric actuator for your valve application.
Whether you're a seasoned engineer or just starting out, The Ultimate Guide to Electric Actuator for Valves is the perfect resource for anyone interested in this powerful technology.
A valve actuator is a device that is used to operate a valve by moving its various components, such as the gate, ball, or plug, in accordance with a control signal. It is essentially a motorized mechanism that can open or close a valve automatically or remotely.
There are different types of valve actuators depending on their mode of operation, such as manual, pneumatic, hydraulic, and electric. Some actuators are designed for linear motion, while others are for rotary motion.
The working principle of an electric actuator is based on the conversion of electrical energy into mechanical energy through an electric motor, which then produces a rotational motion. This rotational motion is then transmitted via a series of gears to the valve stem, which activates the valve to either open, close, or regulate the flow of fluids or gases.
The electric actuator consists of several components, including the electric motor, gears, limit switches, and control circuitry. When an electrical current is applied to the motor, it generates rotational force, which is then transmitted to the gears. The gears transform the motor's high-speed and low-torque output into a low-speed and high-torque output, which is then transferred to the valve stem.
The position of the valve is controlled by the limit switches, which detect the position of the actuator and provide feedback to the control circuitry. With this feedback, the control circuitry can adjust the power supply to the motor to ensure the valve is in the desired position.
There are three types of electric actuators commonly used in industrial processes, which can use different electric power and operate various types of valves.
The electrically driven multi-turn electric actuator is one of the most popular and reliable types of electric actuators. It uses a single-phase or three-phase electric motor to drive the gear or worm gear to finally operate the valve stem nut, and the stem nut makes the valve stem movement to open or close the valve.
Multi-turn electric actuators can quickly drive large size valves. To protect the valve from damage, a limit switch sensor is installed at the end of the valve stroke for cuts off the motor power, and a torque-sensing device also cuts off the motor power when the safety torque is exceeded, a position switch is used to indicate the opening and closing status of the valve, and a handwheel mechanism with a clutch device is installed to operate the valve manually in case of power failure.
multi-turn electric actuator for gate valveThe main advantage of this type of electric actuator is that all components are mounted in one housing and all basic and advanced functions are integrated into this waterproof, dustproof, and explosion-proof housing. The main disadvantage is that when the power supply fails, the valve can only remain in the last position, and only with a backup power system can the valve achieve a fail-safe position (fail-open or fail-closed)
This type of electric actuator is often used to operate globe valves, single-seat control valves, double-seat control valves, knife gate valves, and gate valves. The structure is simple, and reliable in operation, and it is easy to achieve fail-safe operation mode.
linear output electric actuator for globe control valvelinear output electric actuator for double seat control valveThis kind of electric actuator is similar to the electric multi-turn electric actuator, the main difference is that the final output of the electric actuator is 1/4 turn to 90-degree movement. The new generation electric 1/4 turn electric actuator combines most of the complex functions of a multi-turn electric actuator, such as: using a non-access user-friendly operation interface to achieve parameter setting and diagnostic functions.
quarter turn electric actuator for butterfly valve1/4 turn electric actuators are compact and can be mounted on small size valves, typically with an output torque of up to 2,000 NM, and they can be fitted with batteries for fail-safe operation.
In summary, gate valves and globe valves are often equipped with multi-turn electric actuators, and butterfly valves and ball valves are commonly equipped with 1/4 turn electric actuators.
electric actuator for butterfly valveselectric actuator for ball valveselectric actuator for butterfly valve2In industrial processes, there are various types of valves are used, which have different working principles, types of action, and different functions. For automated valves, the actuator rotates the valve disc angle or lifts the valve plug to control the opening and closing or modulating. The selection of electric actuator needs to be matched according to the requirements of the valve working conditions, such as rotary-stroke electric actuator is the output torque, while the linear-stroke electric actuator is the output displacement thrust.
industrial valve manufacturerThere are a large number of electric valves in power plants, as one of the terminal links of an automatic control loop, the right selection of an electric actuator directly affects the performance of electric valves, because the electric valve plays a vital role in the power station, so the correct selection of electric actuator will affect the reliability, safety, economy of the entire power plant, and even the normal operation of the unit.
According to the operating conditions of valves select control type electric actuator or on/off type electric actuator. In general, the electric actuator used for control valves is mainly regulating type, while electric gate valves and globe valves, etc. are usually assembled with on/off type electric actuators.
When we choose to use the regulating or switching type valve electric actuator for an electric valve, the frequency of use of the valve in the unit time also determines which electric actuator should be selected.
As the original control valve only regulates the flow rate or pressure without a tight shutoff function, the upstream usually installed a shut-off valve, so the leakage level of the control valve is commonly not high requirements. But with the increasing requirements of the control valve, and the development of power station design to large capacity, multi-parameter, the original valve electric actuator power can not meet the requirements, electric actuator also gradually began to use high-power products.
For electric valves, only by choosing the right type of valve electric actuator can play a proper role. Therefore, when you choose the type for the actuator, try to choose a well-known brand, not only quality assurance, and can get technical support and spare parts in time.
Any type of electric actuator is a device that uses power to drive a valve. This device assembly with a hand operator to open or close the valve, or an intelligent electronic component with sophisticated control and measurement devices to control the valve continuously working. With the development of microelectronics technology, electric actuators have become more complex. The early electric actuators were nothing more than motor gearing with position sensing switches. Today's electric actuators have more advanced functions, they can not only open or close the valve but also detect the operating status of the valve and the electric actuator to provide various data for predictive maintenance.
As more and more factories adopt automation control systems, manual operation is replaced by mechanical or automated equipment, people require electric actuators to play the role of interface between the control system and valve mechanical movement, and they also require electric actuators to enhance safety work and protection of the environment. On some dangerous occasions, the automated electric actuator device can reduce the injury of personnel. Some special valves require emergency opening or closing under special circumstances, and electric actuators for these valves can prevent further spreading of danger while minimizing plant damage. For some high pressure and large diameter valves, the required output torque is very large for the electric actuators, In this case, the required electric actuator must be mechanically efficient and use a high output motor so that it is stable enough to operate large diameter valves.
Generally, after the design institute selects the valve type, then the valve manufacturer will match the electric actuator based on the automation requirements, and the electric actuator can be selected to refer below two basic types of valve operation.
Electrically actuated valves are types of valves that are controlled by electric actuators. These valves use an electric motor or solenoid to operate the valve's position, allowing for remote control and automation.
Electrically actuated valves are commonly used in industrial applications, such as oil and gas, chemical, and water treatment plants. They are also used in building automation systems to control HVAC systems and in the food and beverage industry for precise control of ingredients and processing.
One of the main benefits of electrically actuated valves is their ability to operate remotely, reducing the need for manual labor and increasing efficiency. They are also more precise than manual valves, allowing for better control and accuracy.
Hydraulic valve actuators are devices that use hydraulic power to move the valve components, such as the gate, ball, or plug. Hydraulic actuators consist of a cylinder, piston, hydraulic fluid, and a control valve. When hydraulic fluid is pumped into one side of the cylinder, it pushes the piston, which then moves the valve's components to the desired position.
Hydraulic actuators offer several benefits, such as high force output, precise control, and the ability to operate in hazardous environments. They are commonly used in applications that require high force, such as pipeline and process control systems in the oil and gas industry.
eim electric valve actuatorsWe know electric actuators have become an essential component in valve automation, offering precise control and efficient operation. Now we are going to talk about how they work, the finest engineered large bore actuators, and reputable electric actuator spares manufacturers. We will also discuss EIM actuator products and manual gear valve actuators, as well as the importance of relevant documentation and finding your nearest office location for support.
An electric actuator is a device that converts electrical energy into mechanical motion to automate valve operation. It typically consists of a motor, gears, and a valve shaft diameter that matches the valve it is operating. The motor drives the gears, which in turn rotate the valve shaft to open or close the valve.
Large bore actuators are designed to handle high flow rates and are commonly used in isolation applications. Some of the finest engineered large bore actuators include both new and re-manufactured engineered large bore actuators, ensuring optimal performance and durability even in demanding conditions.
EIM is a well-known brand in the industry, offering a wide range of electric actuators suitable for various applications. EIM electric actuators are known for their reliability, efficiency, and ease of use, making them a popular choice among valve automation professionals.
In addition to electric actuators, manual gear valve actuators are also available for situations where electrical power is not accessible or desired. These actuators use a handwheel or lever to manually operate the valve, providing a cost-effective alternative to electric actuators.
When it comes to maintaining and repairing electric actuators, it's essential to source parts from reputable electric actuator spares manufacturers. By doing so, you can ensure the quality and compatibility of the replacement components, prolonging the life of your actuators.
Before installing or servicing any electric actuator, it's crucial to consult the relevant documentation provided by the manufacturer. This information typically includes installation instructions, maintenance guidelines, and troubleshooting tips. Additionally, knowing your nearest office location for the actuator manufacturer can be beneficial in case you require technical support or assistance in procuring spare parts.
Rotary valves include plug valves, ball valves, butterfly valves, and dampers or baffles. These valves need electric actuators with 90-degree rotary operation with the required torque.
Linear type valves can be designed by non-rotating lifting stem or rotating non-lifting stem, or they need a multi-turn operation to drive the valve to the open or closed position. sliding stem valves include globe valves, gate valves, knife gate valves, etc. As an alternative, linear output pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders or membrane electric actuators are also can drive the above valves.
The biggest advantage of automatic control valves is that the valves can be operated from a remote location, which means that the operator can sit in the control room and control the production process without the need to be physically present to manually operate the valves on and off. One only needs to lay some piping to connect the control room to the electric actuator, and the drive energy is directly stimulated through the wiring to the electric actuator, usually with a 4-20mA signal to feedback the position of the valve.
If an electric actuator is required to control parameters such as level, flow, or pressure of a process system, which is a job that requires the electric actuator to act frequently, a 4-20mA signal can be used as the control signal, however, this signal may change as frequently as the process. If required high-frequency action for the electric actuator, then only select a special electric actuator that can start and stop the frequent action. When multiple electric actuators are required in a process, the installation costs can be greatly reduced by using a digital communication system that connects the individual electric actuators together. Digital communication loops allow for fast and efficient transmission of commands and the collection of information. There are various communication methods such as FOUNDATIONFIELDBUS, PROFIBUS, DEVICENET, HART, and PAKSCAN designed for valve electric actuators. Digital communication systems not only reduce investment costs but also collect a large amount of valve information that is valuable for predictive maintenance procedures for valves.
Most of the above information applies to all kinds of valves, but the focus is different, for example: for butterfly valves, the friction in valve operation is negligible, but for plug valves, this friction value is very large. Different valves have different torque operating curves, for example: for the wedge gate valve, the opening and closing torque are very large, and during other strokes only packing friction and thread friction. When closing, the liquid static pressure acting on the gate increases the seat friction, and eventually, the wedge effect causes the torque to increase quickly until it is closed. Therefore, the change of the torque curve can predict the failure that will occur and can provide valuable information for predictive maintenance.
There are many electric valve actuator manufacturers globally, but here are a few notable ones:
A German-based manufacturer that produces electric valve actuators for various industries, including oil and gas, power generation, and water/wastewater treatment.
A UK-based company that produces electric valve actuators for various applications, including pipeline, valve automation, and process control.
An American-based company that produces electric valve actuators for many industries, including chemical, oil and gas, power, and water treatment.
A US-based company that offers multiple types of electric valve actuators for a range of applications, including oil and gas, water treatment, and pharmaceuticals.
A France-based company that primarily produces electric valve actuators for the maritime industry.
A Swiss-based company that specializes in electric valve actuators for HVAC systems.
These manufacturers are just a few of the many options available in the market. When choosing an electric valve actuator manufacturer, it is important to consider factors such as quality, reliability, and compatibility with your specific valve and application.
Electric actuators are mechanical and electronic components devices which commonly used in industrial applications such as water treatment plants, chemical processing facilities, power generation, oil refineries, and other industries. Here are 8 considerations you should be careful about in the selection of electric actuators.
Operating torque is the most important parameter for selecting a valve electric actuator device, the electric actuator output torque should be 1.2 to 1.5 times the maximum torque of the valve operation.
The mainframe structure of the valve electric device has two types: one is not configured with a thrust disk, it's output torque directly. The other is configured with a thrust disk, the output torque is converted to output thrust through the stem nut in the thrust disk.
The number of turns of the output shaft of the valve electric device is related to the nominal diameter of the valve, stem thread pitch, and thread head, to be calculated according to M = H / ZS (M is the total number of turns that the electric actuator should meet, H is the valve opening height, S is the stem drive thread pitch, Z is the number of stem thread head).
For a multi-turn type rising stem valve, if the electric device allows the maximum stem diameter to pass through the stem of the matched valve, it can not be assembled into an electric valve. so the inner dimension of the output shaft for the electric actuator should be larger than the outer diameter of the valve stem. For part of the rotary valve and multi-turn valve in the non-rising stem valve, although do not have to consider the stem diameter, in the matching should also consideration to the stem diameter and the size of the keyway, so that the assembly can work smoothly.
If the valve opening and closing speed are too fast, there is a risk of a water strike phenomenon. So, it is necessary to choose a suitable opening and closing speed based on various conditions.
After the determined all specification, then its control torque is also determined. Generally running in the predetermined time, the motor will not exceed the load.
The valve electric actuator is divided into switching type and regulating type, regulating actuator signal is also divided into current signal and voltage signal.
The general electric actuator voltage is AC220V, AC380V, DC24V, etc.
When selecting an electric actuator, the main considerations are the movement type of the actuator output shaft, the output torque (or thrust), the control mode (input/output signal), the protection class, the installation space, etc., THINKTANK as a control valve manufacturer, we always use well-known brands of electric actuators to ensure the best performance of our control valves. Should you have any questions, just feel free to contact our representative to consult more information.
Dultmeier Sales stocks valves of all different makes, models, and applications. Here you will find all you need to know about the different types of valves we stock and the various applications they are used for. More importantly, we will help you determine what you need to know prior to making a valve purchase. Let's dig in...
What is a valve? What are some common trade names, associated with, the valves that Dultmeier Sales stocks and distributes? In a nutshell, a valve is a product which is used to constrict, cut off, redirect, or regulate the flow of a liquid or gas. While we do sell pneumatic valves we will be primarily focusing liquid, or solution, valves for this educational segment. Some common trade names associated with the valves we stock are as follows: butterfly, ball, gate, globe, angle, needle, solenoid, check, regulating, diverter, foot, relief, unloader, backflow prevention, and float valves.
As with any product, it's crucial to identify the type of valve, the manufacturer, inlet/outlet size, operating and maximum pressures, solution temperature, and the solution passing through the valve. It's critical to know what solution is passing through the valve to ensure proper chemical compatibility. Knowing the solution's PH level can also be another important factor when determining suitable components and materials.
We size valves similar to how we size pipe. Always measure the inside diameter of the inlet/outlet port. This will identify the size of the valve in question. A common mistake is that people measure the outside diameter of the inlet/outlet ports of a valve. There is one exception to this rule - if working with tubing - measure the outside diameter of the tubing. For hose and pipe, only pay attention to the inside diameter measurement.
If flow rate is important, the coefficient of volume (Cv) of various valves can be compared. Now, I understand that sounds rather technical. However, in layman's terms all that means is the higher the Cv for a valve, the more flow rate will pass thru it with the same pressure loss. In the majority of applications, this will be a non-factor but it is still important terminology to be aware of in the vast world of valves.
Most manufacturers will have a metal tag on their valve bodies to identify their brand. That manufacturer tag will identify the brand of the valve, the model, and serial number. This is an important first step in identifying what product you currently have. That being said, let's begin with a look at butterfly valves.
Here at Dultmeier Sales, we stock a variety of butterfly valves. In the butterfly valve world, it's important to first determine which style of butterfly valve you possess. The two most common styles are Wafer or Lug bodies. A wafer-style butterfly valve has "thru" bolt holes that run along through the outside rim of both pipe flanges. In contrast, a lug-style butterfly valve has threaded bolt holes on both sides of the valve body to allow for "end of line" applications. Lug-style butterfly valves are, generally, less common than wafer-style butterfly valves. Below, you will see a wafer-style valve on the left and a lug style valve on the right:
Next, we get into the topic of valve actuation. We primarily stock butterfly valves that are manually (seen above with handle) or pneumatically actuated with either double acting or spring return actuators. A double acting butterfly valve actuator requires air pressure to open the valve and then air pressure to close the valve.
A spring return butterfly actuator is used in fail-safe applications. If there is a loss of air pressure the valve will automatically close (or open) - due to the spring tension of the actuator. Spring return actuators are used in many production plants that require system flow to cease once power is cut or lost - as mentioned above, this is a fail-safe application example.
Electric Actuators are also used in many industries. While we don't stock electric actuators for butterfly valves - we have access to them. Actuators can also be provided with "positioners", limit switches and other controls.
We stock Butterfly Valves and Air Actuators from Keystone and Pratt.
A ball valve is probably the most common type of valve that exists - across all industries. It gets its name due to the fact that it actually has an internal ball that sits in a "seat". When the handle or knob is turned 90 degrees from the inlet/outlet ports, the valve is closed and one can see the convex shape of the internal ball. When the handle is turned parallel with the inlet/outlet ports, the valve is open and one can view through it - unhindered.
On the left, below, is an example of an air actuated, stainless steel, female pipe thread, ball valve. While on the right, you will see a Banjo, polypropylene, manual, flanged, ball valve.
By design, ball valves that are listed as Standard Port actually have less fluid path than the inlet/outlet ports size limitations - this is somewhat misleading to those that are unfamiliar with the concept of Standard vs. Full Port valves.
For example, if you have a 2 inch Standard Port valve your flow characteristics will be closer to that of a 1.5-inch fluid path. The technical reasoning behind this is the fact that a smaller opening creates more friction loss (i.e. pressure drop) thus resulting in a decreased flow rate. Standard port ball valves are cheaper than full port valves but restrict the system flow rates; somewhat. So, if flow rates don't matter or affect your system then you can save money up front by selecting standard port valve(s) for your plumbing system.
Full port valves allow the plumbing system to realize the full flow characteristics of the valving. If all valves in a system are two inch full port, valves then we can reasonably assume increased flow rates in comparison to a system that contains all standard port valving. A full port valve has a slight design change that allows for this increase in flow characteristics. While the valves may look the same externally, there are internal design changes that are not visible to the naked eye.
This is another crucial step in determining the correct valve for a specific application. If necessary, place a pressure gauge at various points in the plumbing system to determine the system operating pressure. Never guess the operating pressure of a system. If a low pressure valve is installed into a high pressure system, serious or fatal injury could occur. As a general rule of thumb, anything below 150 psi is considered Low Pressure - that being said, there are valves rate for pressure less than 150 psi.
Are you interested in learning more about electric two-seat regulating valve manufacturer? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
This gets back to one of our core fundamentals when selecting a proper valve - determine operating pressure and maximum pressure for the intended plumbing system.
Ball valves are a perfect example of how the same style valve can be used in multiple applications - both high pressure and low pressure. We have some ball valve product lines that have use applications which are limited to certain industries - due to their operating/working pressure limitations. However, we have many ball valve lines that carry over into multiple industry applications.
While we do carry many products that can be cross-utilized in various industries we always want the customer to confirm an operating pressure. This ensures safety in application and use. Furthermore, it minimizes the possibility of injury and lessens the chance of damage to the valve and other plumbing system components
We carry ball valves that can be remotely operated via automation, as well. The most common types are pneumatic (air-operated) and electric motor-operated ball valves. Air operated are most widely used in chemical facilities, fertilizer plants, or industrial plants. Electric ball valves are most commonly used in agricultural applications for spraying applications. The trade name electric ball valve or pneumatic ball valve simply refers to how the valve is actuated.
When you drive down the road and see a large self-propelled sprayer, spraying in a field, you can be certain the booms are being remotely controlled. The boom valves are remotely controlled from the sprayer cab, with the help of electric ball valves. The sprayer operator sends a signal from his, in-cab, boom controller to turn certain sections of the sprayer boom on/off - based upon the field's specific application requirements.
We also see electric ball valves in the turf industry. Golf courses or residential sprayers will commonly use this type of ball valve on their sprayer setups. It is more prevalent in the turf industry due to the fact that the booms are much smaller than the agricultural industry.
Lastly, we do a fair amount of business in the liquid deicing industry. If you have ever seen a department of roads/transportation vehicle that is applying liquid before a winter storm - you have witnessed this industry in action. These vehicles are applying a solution called liquid salt brine (sodium chloride, magnesium or calcium chloride solution). Electric driven ball valves are common in this industry because pneumatic valve airlines would freeze in the frigid winter temperatures.
For those interested, here is a link that further explains the process of creating the salt brine solution. Below is a picture of a pneumatic-operated ball valve, on the left. On the right you will see an electric-operated ball valve.
A flanged gate valve is used in larger flow applications. In the Dultmeier world, we most commonly see this style of valve used on large bulk fertilizer, fuel tank storage applications, and float storage tanks in the vehicle and fleet washing industry. Gate Valves are generally designed with a circular handle that is turned clockwise to close the valve and counter-clockwise to open the valve.
Just as any other valve, we need to confirm the solution that will be passing through the valve to ensure chemical compatibility and then confirm the working or operating pressures that are required by the plumbing system. Most commonly, we are supplying flanged gate valves for lower pressure ranges. Below is a picture of a common flanged gate valve used in the bulk fertilizer industry.
A globe valve is very similar, from an external view, to that of a gate valve. However, when we look at the valves internally, they are quite different. As can be seen from the previous section, the gate valve operates almost like a wedge or slate that constricts or completely closes off flow. A globe valve has a different seat structure and more of a plunger that constricts or completely closes off flow. See below:
Below is a photo of a couple different sized globe valves on an Anhydrous Ammonia application. These valves are for a receiving bulkhead system where a plant facility will offload large bulk transports into their bulk storage tanks. The larger valve is on the liquid line transfer and the smaller valve is on the vapor transfer line.
In the Dultmeier Sales world, we most commonly use globe valves in the Anhydrous Ammonia industry. That is the same for angle valves. The most common application we see angle valves used in would be on toolbars or supply risers for Anhydrous Ammonia fertilizer applications. Continental Nh3 Products and Squibb Taylor are our two largest suppliers for these types of valves. An angle globe valve can be viewed below:
Next up we will take a look into needle valves and the various applications they can be used for. Most commonly, we see these valves used in higher pressure applications such as car/truck wash and high-pressure cleaning. Here is a grouping of various needle valves on our website, to further illustrate the variety of options. That being said, we do sell a fair amount of needle valves in the Anhydrous Ammonia industry for a bleed off application.
As always, in any application we want to confirm the solution passing through the valve, working or operating pressure range, and temperature of the solution. Below you can view a picture of a needle valve.
We carry a wide supply of solenoid valves from a number of suppliers. The most notable brands we offer are GC Valves, DEMA, KIP, Kingston and more. A solenoid valve is another example of an electric valve. However, they are drastically different than electric ball valves. That being said, solenoid valves can be controlled remotely and are used in a number of industries.
We most commonly use them in high-pressure vehicle or fleet washing applications, industrial applications, and agriculture or turf spraying applications. Some users in the agriculture industry are starting to migrate away from solenoid valves to ball valves - the primary reason being the necessity for the ruggedness of a ball valve versus over a solenoid valve. Mother Nature in combination with aggressive chemicals is an extremely harsh environment for a valve.
This is an important topic to address - especially in the realm of solenoid valves. If a valve is "normally closed" it means that the valve is closed in its uncharged state. More simply put, if there is no electrical current passing through the valve coil then then it will remain closed. If a valve is "normally open", that means the valve is open in its uncharged state.
Various applications will call for either style. Coils in these valves can be 12 volt, 24 volt, 110 volt and even 240 volt, which allows for a wide and versatile range of applications.
For example, in the vehicle washing industry, we may want to have a weep application on a spray gun. We would do this to ensure the gun doesn't freeze shut in lower temperatures. Therefore, we want ambient water to continuously run through the system or spray gun - if a loss of power occurs. So, in this instance we would want to ensure a normally open valve be installed in this type of a plumbing system.
Solenoid valves are still highly used in the car/truck wash industries due to the fact that they are generally stored in temperature-controlled environments while limiting exposure to the harshness of the natural elements.
Next up, we will look into the world of check valves. This product is used to prevent backflow of a solution in a plumbing system. For instance, a check valve would be utilized when pumping a solution up a vertical pipe and you do not want the solution to backflow, due to gravity, when the pump is turned off. A check valve is a form of backflow prevention.
Furthermore, check valves keep a plumbing system charged. By keeping the system charged we can ensure more efficient delivery of product and reduce the number of air pockets that are present in the plumbing system, which reduces pump priming time and other potential pump problems. The more efficient a plumbing system is - the less it costs to keep it running.
There are multiple types of check valves and each has its own benefits. We will briefly touch on the different types, here. First, is the most efficient type - in terms of maximizing flow characteristics. The swing check valve allows for maximum flow characteristics due to its design that reduces restrictions (i.e. a high coefficient of volume).
Regardless of the check valve style, we need to remember the cracking pressure. The cracking pressure determines the PSI at which the valve opens. Therefore, if a check valve has a cracking pressure of 2 psi it will not open until the plumbing system generates an operating fluid pressure greater than 2 psi. Below is a cross-cut section of a swing check valve:
Secondly, we have a ball check valve. This type of check valve has a preset mechanical spring that allows the valve to open based upon a pre-determined working pressure. These types of check valves are commonly used in high-pressure applications such as car and truck wash, but also within industrial and agricultural applications.
Lastly, there is a plunger style check valve. This style is pictured below:
Things to note when ordering a check valve:
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A regulating valve can technically be any valve. In this sense, if you can constrict or control the flow by manipulating the opening threshold of the valve - you have just regulated the system flow.
To that note, we are going to look at this section with this one caveat in mind - a regulating valve needs to be remotely controlled. To do this, let's first look into electric motor driven valves.
There are certain types actuators of ball valves or butterfly valves that manipulate the flow rate of the solution by opening or closing the valve stem a to a certain degree. Without getting too technical this is done in conjunction with some type of flow monitor that is able to communicate with the valve actuator through a control mechanism.
This control mechanism can be a simple rate controller in a sprayer cab or as complex as a computer dashboard in a chemical production facility. The regulating valve communicates to the flow monitor through the system controller to reach and/or maintain the desired flow rate. This controller can be a simple rate controller or a complex computer system.
Regardless of the application - in order to remotely control a regulating valve we must have a controller that sends a signal to the valve based upon the desired flow rate of the operator.
As always, any application we want to confirm the solution passing through the valve, operating pressure range, and temperature of the solution.
A diverter valve functions very similarly to a remotely controlled regulating valve. The main difference between a regulating valve and a diverter valve lies within the functionality. A diverter valve is designed only to guide product flow through a system. Therefore, the most common example of this would be a three-way ball valve.
We look at this section with the same caveat in mind - a regulating valve needs to be remotely controlled. To do this, let's first look into electric motor driven valves.
The diverter valve would be remotely controlled through a similar mechanism as a regulating valve. The main difference is that the diverter valve "diverts" flow down fluid path A versus fluid path B - based upon the desired location sent by the controller or computer.
Foot Valves are commonly used in transfer systems that require the pump to maintain it's prime. A foot valve is essentially a type of check valve. Foot valves are placed at the beginning of a suction line and are generally designed with some type of a strainer or screen to protect the plumbing system from sucking in foreign objects.
If you recall the design of the check valve, you will remember that a check valve closes when there is backflow pressure applied on the spring check. This forces the valve to close and keeps the system suction line primed, with liquid - thus increasing the overall efficiency of the plumbing system. The less time it takes to prime the pump the more efficient the plumbing system becomes. Below you can view a diagram of a plumbing system that includes a foot valve, with strainer.
Relief and unloader valves are commonly used in higher pressure situations with positive displacement pumps. These valves are used to protect system components from dead-head scenarios. A positive displacement pump will continue forcing product downstream in a plumbing system until there is a system failure such as a burst pipe, fitting, hose, etc. Thus, the term: dead head scenario. To help combat this scenario, relief and unloader valves were designed. Here is a diagram that explains a relief valve scenario
Wash Diagrams
This video will explain the difference between the two styles of valves. As always, Cat Pumps does an amazing job explaining content.
In any wash down application where an operation has a water supply line connected to a public water source then it's absolutely necessary, by regulation, to have a back flow prevention valve in place. We distribute for Watts and commonly sell these units in vehicle/fleet wash applications, industrial applications and fertilizer/chemical facility applications. A backflow prevention system products the main water supply in the scenario where a local business would have a system failure and back up chemical, fertilizer, hazardous material, etc. into the main water supply - backflow prevention systems inhibit this scenario from taking place.
Below is an example of a Watts back flow preventer
Float valves are used in a wide array of applications. Virtually anywhere you need to maintain the level of a supply tank - you can leverage the assistance of a float valve. Some common float valve product lines that we distribute and carry include BOB Valves, Jobe Valves, Hydro Systems, Kerrick Valve, Dema, Walters Control, and Suttner.
Below is a Dema liquid level proportioning control unit with a siphon breaker.
Another application that is extremely common with float valves is in the cattle industry. We sell a unit that allows the user to tie into a warm water source to keep stock tanks from freezing closed in frigid temperatures. The Ice Bull Automatic Ice Prevention System is engineered to automatically open when the stock tank water temperature falls below 42 degrees Fahrenheit.
When the Ice Bull sensor valve opens, .20 gallons per minute of warmer water bypasses the float valve and flows into the tank through the discharge hose. Then, when the water temperature rises above 42 degrees Fahrenheit, the thermo valve shuts off. The Ice Bull Sensor is pictured below:
We hope that this has been a helpful guide to valves. While not all valve types are listed in this post, you have certainly enhanced your general knowledge and should be better prepared to choose the correct valve for your desired application needs.
Don't forget to confirm in any application - the solution passing through the valve, operating pressure range, maximum pressure, and temperature of the solution and always confirm chemical compatibility.
As always, thanks for stopping by and come back soon.
For more flow control gate valveinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.