Guides To Help You Select The Right Check Valve

When selecting the most appropriate check valve type to use in your pipe lines, there are a few things that need to be considered.

A Check valve is normally used in piping systems to decrease the flow reversal and allow the material, which may be gas or liquid, to flow freely in just one direction. These devices are automatically activated when liquid flows in the pipeline. They can also be installed in some systems that tend to overheat or get contaminated as a result of reverse flows; these contraptions are then used to prevent such occurrences.

Depending on the purpose, clack valves come in a variety of types such as swing, ball, double, clapper, disk, solenoid and dual disc types, and many others. When selecting the most appropriate type to use in your pipe lines, there are a few things that need to be considered. Here are a few guides to help you select the right valve for your particular need:

1. Know the available check valve types: Before buying, it is advisable to know first the various types and the common applications they are used for. This will give you a clearer picture of what you really need and what type will be most appropriate to use.

• Swing Check: This is a type of pressure-reducing valve that is normally used for systems with gate valves. It has a movable disc that regulates the flow of liquid.

• Double Check: Commonly used in water supply lines, this type of control valve prevents the reverse flow of liquid and prevents possible contaminants from getting into the lines.

• Ball Type: This valve type uses a ball-like component to block the liquid flow. Usually small and inexpensive, this can be seen in spray devices, refillable dispensing syringes, manual air pumps, and other similar equipment or devices. As this type is more prone to the rigors of wear and tear, it is designed for convenient installation and replacement.

• Diaphragm: This type utilizes a flexible rubber diaphragm that is strategically located to allow for a usually-closed valve. The valve works when the upstream pressure is greater than that on the downstream. This pressure differential will force the valve to open to allow the outflow. The diaphragm will automatically close when the pressure stops.

• Clapper: This type is similar to the diaphragm type. It features a hinged gate that is open when the material is flowing in an outward direction and is most commonly used in dry pipe, and fire safety systems.

2. Know the manufacturer: As there are so many types of non-return valves available, it can sometimes be difficult to select and decide on which one to go for. Sometimes, valve control manufacturers produce only one or two specific types with various models, sizes and specific functions. These manufacturers who specialize only in specific models usually produce the best brands available in the market. Of course, there are exceptions but to simplify the selection process, it may be advisable to identify certain check valve types with specific manufacturers. Initially, you can ask the store attendant for the best brands and manufacturers or you can do some research on your own through the internet and look for check valve reviews.