The Differences in Industrial Valves and How They Function

Industrial valves come in a wide range of designs to fit various handling needs. Though they are commonplace for residential and home use, irrigation, HVAC systems, and various other processes, industrial valves are ideal for systems that require a higher threshold for pressure demand. Commonly composed of a valve body, valve bonnet, valve actuator, and valve trim, these parts work together to create what is commonly known as a valve.

Despite there being a variety of industrial valves available, most are built with the common four segments: body, bonnet, actuator, and trim. By fully closing, partially obstructing, or allowing the valve to remain open, these components are capable of controlling the flow of gases, liquids, slurries, or fluidized solids. Coming in the form of plug valves, piston valves, needle valves, relief valves, and other accompanying industrial-level components, there are a number of industrial valve types that feature different designs and operational characteristics. Vast in variety and essential for numerous flow and pressure systems in industrial settings, it can be difficult to determine which is best fit for your applications. Below, we will highlight commonly used industrial valves, the components that comprise them, and how they each function to provide a specific use.

Balancing Valves

Designed for a system with multiple branches of fluid flow, balancing valves allow flow in a pipe to be regulated in multiple directions. Commonly seen amongst fluid and power controls in HVAC systems, these items are effective for adjusting loading conditions, counterbalancing force, and more. These valve types are capable of creating hydraulic balance, that of which is achieved by adjusting valve components connected to the valve body which, in turn, simultaneously regulates output based on received input.

Ball Valve

Also commonly used for HVAC systems, ball valves can perform a quarter turn to stop or start flow. Utilizing a handle connected to the valve body through a hollow, ball-shaped insert, this device is used where quick-action is needed in low-pressure gas, liquid, and vapor settings. As ball valves often come in a variety of high-pressure models, they also provide increased range for tasks featuring higher amounts of stress. If maintained with care and handled properly, the range in ball valve durability equates to lower maintenance and minimal faults over time.

Butterfly Valve

Offered in wafer or lug style types, butterfly valves perform quarter turns with the use of a rotating disk attached to a valve body. Allowing the manipulation of flow, these components are suitable for regulating water supply, wastewater treatment, fluid-handling power applications, and a great number of other functions.

Globe & Gate Valves

As a linear motion valve fixed with a stationary ring, globe valves contain internal plates that assist in stopping, starting, and regulating flow. Similar to globe valves, gate valves were designed to primarily block flow instead of mitigating it. These two components can often be found in wastewater and processing plants as turn-off and high-temperature devices.

Check Valve

Also known as Non-Return Valves (NRV), check valves come in three varieties, those which are lift type, swing type, and butterfly types. Frequently seen for pumps, gas lines, HVAC use, and more, these valves regulate the flow of fluids in one direction only. Constructed with components that allow a fluid to freely flow when needed, check valves are a typical instrument in backflow systems, wastewater management, manufacturing, and more.

When looking for a particular valve to fit your specifications, look no further than Industrials Unlimited. We are your trustworthy source for numerous industrial OEM equipment, industrial handwheels, foot valves, and various other industrial supplies, parts, and components. Due to our quality control and export compliance, we operate with AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B certification and accreditation. If you would like to request a quote for your comparisons, you can submit an RFQ form as provided on our website. Upon receipt, a dedicated account manager will quickly review and respond with a personalized solution to your needs in just 15 minutes or less, 24/7x365.