Valves are a critical part of most processes and systems because they control the flow of liquids and gasses. Whether you are selecting a valve for an industry or home, it is essential to make the right choice for optimum performance. Choosing the proper process valves for the job may challenge most people. This post will offer five handy tips to guarantee you select the suitable valve for the job. The correct valve for you will depend on the performance requirements of your system, amongst other factors.
Inquire About Special Valve Requirements
When considering a particular valve, confirm that it will perform in the circumstances it will be subjected to. Ask the sales staff how much pressure is required to open the valve and how long it takes to respond. It is also advisable to weigh whether you are better served by the normally open or normally closed valves.
A normally open valve is suited to a process where the valve is required to be open most of the time, while a normally closed valve is best for the systems that require it to be closed the majority of the time. Choosing the correct valve will improve its reliability and lifespan.
Select The Most Suitable Material
Valves are made from various materials that offer different strength and chemical resistance properties. You will need to consider the conditions in which the valve is expected to perform to make the right choice. Valves subjected to tremendous pressure should be made of solid material to withstand it. A valve must also not be made of material likely to react with the gas or liquid flowing through it. Plastic valves are considered appropriate for processes involving harsh or corrosive chemicals.
Type and Size of Valve
Many different types of valves are designed to perform various functions. Some valves are designed to shut off the flow, mix flow, adjust the flow, shut off the flow, prevent backflow or release of pressure. The correct valve for you will be dictated by the function you expect it to perform. Standard valves include pinch valves, shutoff valves, relief valves, toggle valves, metering valves, ball valves, check valves, stopcocks, and needle valves.
Once you have identified the type of valve you need, the next step is to determine the size which matches your system.
Performance Requirements
Valves are expected to perform under various pressure and temperature conditions. You will need to consider the minimum performance requirements required by your system. The correct valve will function efficiently under the highest and lowest conditions the system might subject it to.
Metallic valves are much stronger than plastic and are highly suitable for systems that operate at high pressure and temperature. Plastic valves are not recommended for high pressure and temperature systems. However, plastic valves are excellent for any system that deals with highly corrosive or harsh chemicals.
Consider Maintenance
When selecting the correct valve, maintenance is a critical factor to consider. Valves are bound to wear out over time. Therefore maintenance costs will be a crucial part of your safety routines. Where possible, select the lowest maintenance valve possible, no matter the extra cost that may be attached. Low-maintenance valves are very high quality. They help guarantee valve reliability and application stability. Low maintenance valves are not worth the price cut because they are of much lower quality and, therefore, less reliable. Valves that need constant maintenance may malfunction and expose you to serious risk.
It is also advisable to assess the valve connection type to affect the speed, ease of repair, and replacement. There are various connection types for valves, each with advantages and disadvantages. Common connection types include a threaded, barbed, ruler, and push-in.
The fastest way to select the correct process valve for your system is by ensuring you have enough information about the type of valve you need. Ensure you understand factors like application requirements of the system, operation conditions, and chemical compatibility. When you do all your research before going shopping, you will be able to make an educated choice that will likely serve you well. Following these tips will ensure you pick out the best process valve for your system.
If you are uncertain about the type of valve you need, it is advisable to consult a professional who can inspect your system and make an expert choice on your behalf. Hiring a professional will always yield better results than attempting to DIY.
