Valves

Our silent helpers - how to identify and shop for industrial valves and valve systems

Valves work silently in the background, controlling most of the systems within our homes and businesses. Whether for liquids such as water, gas and oil, slurry, chemicals, liquids for human consumption or air, valves are part of most mechanical systems. Those in charge of procuring industrial valves for new systems or replacement must know the types of valves available. A good working knowledge of the material makeup of valves is also essential, ensuring industrial valve systems are safely applied.

Some general types of valves and uses are:

1. Ball - simple on/off operation, ball valves are bi-directional or multi-port.
2. Plug - simple on/off, multiport, included in many valve systems.
3. Butterfly - good for flow control, not generally used with flammables unless made fire-safe.
4. Check - one-way valves that prevent backflow.
5. Gate - positive shut off valves good for wastewater, water, oil and gas and others.
6. Globe - positive seal widely used in oil and gas, high pressure applications.

 

Think about flammability and industrial valves

Automated valves must have explosion-proof devices for oil and gas service. Butterfly valves are useful in large piping, but choose fire-safe valves for flammable service. Rule out plastic, aluminum and brass valves for use in the oil and gas industry and other flammable applications.
Try: For heavy-duty steel industrial valve systems, Cameron Valve. They are worldwide and offer repair and inspection services. See Assured Automation for a good selection of smaller metal and plastic valves of all types, up to four-inch. For smaller metal valves go to Discover Valve, where you will find a selection of valves two inches and smaller with free shipping.

Choose according to properties of industrial valves

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) rates valves. Know the pressures under which valves you buy are to operate. Certain applications require that you prove the valve is positively shutting off flow. Some valves have ports that enable inspection. Get what your industry requires.
Try: Try Tyco Flow Control for industrial valve systems and flow control. Also, The Valve Shop has the valve systems you need, plus information and tech support.

Define your valve needs according to materials

Forged steel, stainless steel, brass, bronze, aluminum, plastic and fiberglass are included in the materials used by valve manufacturers. Check with the engineering department for requirements for your application.
Try: For water and wastewater applications, use valve manufacturers Val-Matic or The Scruggs Company. For industrial valve systems to handle chemicals, see ITT Engineered Valves.

Add automation and controls to industrial valve systems

Cut your staffing needs by automating valves to open and close by remote control. Use explosion-proof controls in flammable environments.
Try: See solenoid valve manufacturers STC Valve.

 

• Valves come with weld-type, flanged, or threaded ends. Consult with design, safety and engineering groups.
• Keep a selection of repair parts in stock for industrial valves.

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