Valves Significance in Piping Field

II JAY SHRI KRISHNA II

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Valves Significance in Piping Field

What is Valve?

A Valve is a mechanical device that controls, regulates, or directs the fluid flow such as services liquids, gases, or slurries by opening, closing, or partly blocking service pathways. Therefore, they are essential for various industrial applications.

Valves Significance in Piping Field

Valves play a crucial role in Piping Engineering by controlling the flow of fluids within a system. They are considered the ‘Heart’ of Piping Systems due to their fundamental function in managing flow and pressure.

Valves are widely used in industries like oil and gas, water treatment, chemical processing, and more, contributing to the efficient and safe operation of fluid systems.

Types of Valves with their Functional applications are divided in four categories which are as follows:

1. Isolation Valves

Gate Valve, Ball Valve, Butterfly Valve, Diaphragm Valve, Piston Valve, Pinch Valve and Plug Valve

2. Regulating Valves

Globe Valve, Needle Valve, Butterfly Valve, Diaphragm Valve, Piston Valve and Pinch Valve

3. Check Valves 

Lift Check Valve, Swing Check Valve, Ball Lift Check Valve, Piston Lift Check Valve and Non Slam Check Valve

4. Special Valves

Flush Bottom Valve, Float Valve, Foot Valve, Pressure Relief Valve and Breather Valve

They come in different types, such as Gate Valves, Ball Valves, Globe Valves and more each designed for their specific applications. As we move forward we will cover all types of valves with their required details.

Types of Valve (Functional)

The Selection of Valve depends on factors like pressure, temperature, and the nature of the fluid being handled. Proper sizing, material compatibility, and maintenance are key considerations in designing an effective Piping System with Valves.

Common Terms used in Valve Specifications are:

1. Pressure Temperature Rating:

The Pressure-Temperature Rating is influenced by the materials used in the valve construction. Every materials have different temperature & pressure limits. The actual operating conditions, including pressure and temperature, should not exceed the rated values to ensure the valve's integrity and longevity.

Valve Pressure-Temperature ratings are often defined by industry standards such as ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) for pressure vessels and valves.

2. Class:

The Valve is specified by the pressure rating of the body of the Valve. The American Standards specifies the following classes.

Which are, 150#, 300#, 400#, 600#, 800#, 900#, 1500# and 2500#

3. Trim

The Trim included stem, seat, Surfaces, Back Seat Bushing and other small internal parts.

4. Wetted Parts

All parts which are come in contact with the service fluid are called the Wetted Part.

5. Strength Through Flow

The Valve in which the closing part is retracted fully so, that there is no restriction of flow.

6. Quarter Turn Valve

When the entire operation of Valve is achieved by 90 degree turn of the closing element is called Quarter Turn Valve

Valve Classified base on End Connection are:

• Butt Weld Ends

• Socket Weld End

• Screwed End

• Flanged End

• Wafer Type

Valve Classified base on Material of Constructions are:

• Alloy Steel

• Bronze

• Cast iron

• Carbon Steel

• Gun Metal

• Polypropylene and other Plastic

• Stainless Steel

• Special Alloys

The key Purpose of Valves in various applications, are as follows:

1. Flow Regulation:

Valves can adjust and regulate the rate of fluid flow, allowing for accurate control according to process needs.

2. Start and Stop Flow:

Valves enable the initiation and termination of fluid flow in a system, providing on/off functionality.

3. Pressure Control:

Valves can be used to control and maintain specific pressures within a Piping System, ensuring operational stability.

4. Directional Control:

Valves direct the flow of fluids in specific directions, smoothing the movement of elements through a system.

5. Isolation:

Valves can isolate specific sections of a system for maintenance, repair, or to contain potential leaks, preventing the entire system shutdown.

6. Temperature Control:

In some applications, valves are working to regulate the temperature of fluids by controlling the flow through heat exchangers or other temperature-modifying devices.

7. Safety:

Valves contribute to safety by providing emergency shut-off capabilities, helping to contain or stop the flow of fluids in case of an unexpected event.

8. Mixing:

Valves are used to mix different fluids or control the blending of substances in specific proportions.

9. Relief and Pressure Release:

Certain Valves are designed to relieve excess pressure in a system, preventing damage or hazards.

Conclusion:

So, Valves serve diverse purposes in controlling fluid flow within systems, contributing to the efficient and safe operation of various industrial processes.

Valves are essential components in Piping Engineering, serving as vital control mechanisms for fluid flow within industrial systems. The selection, sizing, and maintenance of valves are critical aspects of designing efficient and reliable Piping Systems.

Engineers must consider factors such as pressure, temperature, and fluid characteristics to choose the appropriate valve types. A well-designed valve system ensures optimal performance, safety, and longevity in diverse applications across various industries. Hope, you all are very well understands the significance of valves in piping field.

Valve Parts and all types of Valves we are cover in next coming blogs so, stay tuned with me.

Kindly, follow my all blogs and previous blog on

Valve Parts and their Functions

Pipe Significance in Piping Field

Art of Pipe Manufacturing

Butt welded, Socket Welded & Flanged Fittings - Advantages and Disadvantages.

Section of Gasket Material Guide

Specialized Valves in Piping Systems

Control Valve Station: Key of Fluid Management

Valve Placement Guidelines in Piping

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