Selecting the right valve decides how the entire system will function. Valves control many functions in a liquid or gas transportation or distribution system.
Valves control the volume, flow rate, backflow prevention, pressure regulation, and so on. However, all this hinges on selecting the right valve.
The wrong valve can spoil the entire balance and work counter-productive. Worse, it can unravel the system and cause considerable damage.
Seven Factors To Keep in Mind When Selecting a Valve
There are many factors to be considered when selecting a valve. Many people go for customized casting foundries India to get the right part. But before you start that, you should consider the following factors:
#1. Valve type
There are many types of vaults, and their selection depends on several factors. This includes valve operation, flow control, and function.
#2. Flow
A valve with a choking action will suffice if you only look for flow control. The area of the opening and closing will also decide the size of the valve.
But sometimes, we may need something more than just opening and closing.
In such cases, one may go for valves that control changes in flow rates. Plug, gate, butterfly, ball, and diaphragm valves are sufficient for on/off operations.
However, stick to the globe, diaphragm, ball, and needle valves if you want to throttle action. If you want more flow control, go for plug and ball valves.
Check valves are your best option when you want prevention of backflow. For pressure control, you will need a pressure regulating valve.
A mixing valve is the right choice to blend two streams. But if you are feeding additives into a stream, a metering valve will offer a better flow.
#3. Media
The media flowing in the system should be considered when choosing the valve. According to the media, there are categories of valves: solids valves, hydraulic valves, steam valves, gas valves, or vacuum valves.
This is important because the configuration of the valves differs significantly as per the media. It is even considered during the process by Alloy steel castings Manufacturers india.
For instance, you will need a sanitary valve if it is meant for food or beverage.
#4. Materials of construction
The material of the valve is an important consideration because it affects its durability. Valves are exposed to two potential sources of corrosion, one inside and the other outside.
It should withstand any corrosive effects of the media flowing through the system and the surrounding environment.
This is particularly important when dealing with highly corrosive media like acids, chemicals, wastewater, saltwater, and even certain beverages.
The process of Valve Castings Manufacturers India will also consider if the media will exert pressure. For instance, hot water or steam requires alloys to withstand corrosion at high temperatures and pressure.
Another critical element to consider is the volatility of the media. If the media or the environment is volatile, we have to pick non-sparking material.
#5. Valve sizing and performance
A wrong-sized valve can cause serious problems in the system operations. An undersized valve can choke the flow on one end and create back pressure on the other end.
Oversized valves will be limited in their control, causing disruptions over time. Eventually, you will have to put in an adapter to add to the cost.
Hence, selecting the right size becomes critical when selecting a valve. The valve is sized according to the existing tube, hose, or pipe size.
However, when sizing for the flow control valve, we also have to consider constriction changes and the gap between the plug and seat, which keeps changing.
#6. Actuation
Here we have to see how Who will operate a valve. Some processes require manual valves, especially where conditions vary and must be manually assessed and adjusted.
Other processes, such as in automobiles, are automated. A different control system operates these. Some valves operate by pressure.
Valves are constructed as per these factors — manual, electronic, or hydraulic valves all have different operating systems.
#7. Certification
Certain industries have very strict accreditation systems, which extends to equipment parts in such cases. You have to see that the valve casting also follows the rules.
Failure to follow the rules can end in the cancellation of your accreditation.
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About Author: This post was written by Rajnikant. He works as a Blogger for Castech India – A Leading Manufacturers of Marine Castings and Engineering Castings India.
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