Industrial valves

This article covers all valves and fittings used in all industrial sectors, from water supply to nuclear power plants, refining, power generation, chemicals, petrochemicals, iron and steel, food processing, etc.

Only sanitary and construction fittings do not fall within this scope.

The vast majority of malfunctions encountered in industrial valves result from a mismatch between the equipment and the service expected of it.

In the first place, therefore, you'll find a general guide, including definitions of the various functions: shut-off, control and regulation, protection... All these functions performed by valves, as well as quality and technical criteria to guide you to the best choice.

The different device families are presented.

An illustrated technical analysis of the main types of equipment commonly used in industry outlines their mechanical and hydraulic characteristics, advantages and disadvantages:

• straight-through valves;

• Plug valves ;

• piston valves;

• globe valves;

• butterfly valves ;

• knife gate valves;

• diaphragm valves ;

• valves ;

• valves.

The characteristics and special features of devices designed for more demanding applications (high-pressure, high-temperature, cryogenic, chemical, petroleum) are described in detail.

Two types of complementary elements are presented:

• the main types of pipe connections ;

• operating devices.

Finally, theoretical aspects concerning sealing, pressure losses and operating torques of butterfly valves, as well as the behavior of the devices with respect to the fluid, are developed.