Types of Valves Used in Chemical Industry - COVNA Valve

The chemical industry relies heavily on the use of various types of valves to control the flow of different chemicals in manufacturing and processing operations. These
valves play a crucial role in maintaining the safety, efficiency, and reliability of chemical processes, as well as ensuring the quality of the end products. In this article, we will discuss some of the most commonly used types of valves in the chemical industry, their functions, and their applications.

1. Ball valves
Ball valves are a type of quarter-turn valve that uses a ball-shaped disc to control the flow of fluid through the valve. The ball has a hole in the center that allows the fluid to pass through when the valve is open. When the valve is closed, the ball rotates to block the flow of fluid.
Ball valves are widely used in the chemical industry because they are easy to operate, have a simple design, and are highly reliable. They are suitable for a wide range of applications, from low to high-pressure and temperature operations. Ball valves are also resistant to corrosion and erosion, which makes them ideal for use in harsh chemical environments.

2. Globe valves
Globe valves are named for their spherical shape and are commonly used in applications that require precise control of the flow rate. They are made up of a stationary ring-shaped body and a movable plug that slides up and down inside the body to control the flow of fluid.
Globe valves are ideal for applications that require fine-tuning of the flow rate, such as in chemical processing operations. They are also used in high-pressure applications, as they provide excellent shut-off capabilities.

WCB Globe Valve

Pneumatic Globe Valve

3. Gate valves
Gate valves are a type of linear motion valve that uses a gate-shaped disc to control the flow of fluid through the valve. The gate is moved up and down inside the valve body to open and close the valve.
Gate valves are commonly used in applications that require a full-bore flow path, such as in pipelines or large tanks. They are also ideal for applications that require quick shut-off capabilities, as they can be closed rapidly to prevent the flow of fluid in an emergency situation.

4. Diaphragm valves
Diaphragm valves use a flexible diaphragm to control the flow of fluid through the valve. The diaphragm is moved up and down inside the valve body to open and close the valve.
Diaphragm valves are ideal for applications that require a high level of purity, as they prevent the fluid from coming into contact with the valve body. They are also used in applications that require precise control of the flow rate, as the diaphragm can be adjusted to control the flow rate accurately.


5. Check valves
Check valves are designed to allow fluid to flow in one direction only and prevent backflow in the opposite direction. They are commonly used in chemical processing applications to prevent contamination of the process stream.
Check valves come in a variety of designs, including ball check valves, swing check valves, and lift check valves. The type of check valve used depends on the specific application and the flow rate of the fluid.

6. Butterfly valves
Butterfly valves are a type of quarter-turn valve that uses a flat disc to control the flow of fluid through the valve. The disc is mounted on a stem, and when the stem is turned, the disc rotates to control the flow of fluid.
Butterfly valves are commonly used in applications that require a low-pressure drop and quick shut-off capabilities. They are also ideal for applications that require a compact valve design.

7. Pinch valves
Pinch valves are ideal for applications that require a high level of purity, as the fluid only comes into contact with the sleeve, which can be easily replaced to prevent contamination. They are commonly used in the chemical industry for applications such as dosing, sampling, and filling, as they provide precise control of the flow rate and are resistant to corrosion and abrasion.

In conclusion, the chemical industry relies heavily on the use of various types of valves to control the flow of different chemicals in manufacturing and processing operations. The selection of the appropriate valve type depends on several factors, including the specific application, the flow rate, the pressure and temperature requirements, and the type of fluid being transported. Understanding the functions and applications of different valve types is crucial in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and reliability of chemical processes and the quality of the end products.
 

The above is the chemical industry valve selection introduction for your reference. If anything we could help with valve selection, feel free to consult us at [email protected].