Why is it important to select the right industrial valve?

Without valves, there is no way of controlling the speed and direction of the flow of fluids, gases, and other substances in an industrial set up. Industrial valves are crucial components that ensure that the processes are regulated and controlled. Choosing the right valve is a job that's best left to experts because it can be confusing. 

For the uninitiated, all valves are the same. So, what happens when you do not use the right valve for the right purpose? 

  • It may cause an unexpected leakage of fluids or gases. 
  • It may not fit with the other component.
  • Choosing the wrong valve compromises the safety of the industrial procedure.
  • The valve may be subjected to a lot of wear and tear. 

This article is a valuable compilation of guidelines one can follow during valve selection. 

Grey colored valve ready for dispatch by Singapore's top industrial valve suppliers

Valve selection checklist suggested by leading industrial valve manufacturers

There are many assumptions based on valve selection. Most people think that all valves are the same or simply make their purchase based on the instructions given by the contractor. The following tips given by industrial valve manufacturers will be helpful for anyone seeking to purchase valves for industrial or domestic purposes.

Knowing the purpose of the valve.

Valves can be used for various purposes and functions. Here are some questions to ask before setting out to buy the valve:

  • Will the valve be used to control the flow or isolate the media?
  • How often will it be used?
  • What is the role of the valve in the industrial process?
  • Will its failure affect the process?
  • Will it be used for emergency purposes?

The function of the valve

Valves are designed to perform specific functions. Some valves perform multiple functions, and some are used only for a single purpose. If you are selecting the valve based on its functions, this is what you should know:

  • Divert flow.
  • Shut off the flow.
  • Relieving pressure.
  • Preventing backflow.
  • Mixing the flow.
  • Adjusting the flow.

Knowing the types

The function of the valve determines the type of valve that will be required. Here are some of the standard valves that are available today.

  • Check valves.
  • Ball valves.
  • Butterfly valves.
  • Gate valves.
  • Globe valves.
  • Stopcocks.
  • Regulators.
  • Relief valves.
  • Toggle valves.
  • Pinch valves.
  • Needle valves.
  • Metering valves.

Also Read : Industrial Valves And Their Basic Components

Knowing the pressure and temperature

One small mistake in pressure and temperature regulation could mean a disaster of immeasurable proportions. If the valve is to be used specifically for pressure regulation, it is imperative to use specialist valves with thick wall diameters designed to cope with pressure.

For low-pressure applications, a valve might not even be necessary. In such cases, instead of using a damper would be a better choice. In industrial processes that deal with hot or cold substances, it is important to use valves manufactured with the right materials to seal against the temperature.

The material used

The valve needs to be compatible with whatever material that it will be regulating. The material can range from simple food items like juices, sauces, cake batter, soups, etc., to harsh chemical material like slurries, sludges, gases, acids, etc. Heavy-duty plastic valves can withstand the corrosiveness of these materials much better than metal valves.

The industrial environment

The durability and efficiency of a valve highly depend on where it will be installed. Not all valves are suitable for indoor usage. Valves are installed in a wide range of industrial environments such as:

  • A saline environment like oil rigs and refineries in the deep seas.
  • Industries located in dry, hot environments.
  • Underwater gas pipelines.

It is important to note if the materials, exterior coatings, and internal seals are suitable for the type of natural or industrial environment in which the valve will be installed.

Connections and operations

Even as modern industrial facilities are moving towards automation, some valves may require manual supervision and operation. Valves can be actuated in the following ways:

  • Electric actuator.
  • Pneumatic actuator.
  • Self actuator.
  • Hydraulic actuator.
  • Lever actuator.

As for the connections, some of the commonly used connection types are:

  • Flanged.
  • Screwed.
  • Welded.

Oilway: Singapore's leading industrial valve manufacturer

Oilway is a reputed name for all kinds of heavy-duty industrial, commercial, and domestic valves. We design and manufacture high-quality valves that are economically priced, highly durable and very efficient. To place your orders at our Singapore facility, kindly contact our team.

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