What Does a Check Valve Do?

What is a Check Valve?

A check valve , allows fluid to move in only one direction. It blocks backflow, which happens when fluid tries to go backward in a pipe. This keeps fluid flowing the right way in a system. Check valves are vital parts in fluid systems for industries like oil and gas, chemical processing, water treatment, and HVAC.

How Do Check Valves Work?

Check valves have a simple setup to let fluid flow one way and stop it from going back. They include a valve body, a seat, and a disc or ball that closes the valve if fluid tries to flow backward. When fluid moves forward, the disc or ball lifts off the seat, letting fluid pass through. But if fluid tries to go back, the disc or ball settles on the seat, stopping the flow. This works on its own without needing extra controls.

Types of Check Valves

Ball Check Valves:These ball check valves use a ball that rests on a seat. It lets fluid flow one way but stops backflow when fluid tries to go the other way.

Swing Check Valves:These swing check valves have a disc that swings to let fluid flow one way and stop backflow. They’re often used in low-pressure systems since they don’t slow down flow much.

Lift Check Valves: These lift check vlves use a piston or ball that lifts off the seat. This lets fluid flow one way but blocks backflow when fluid goes the other way. They’re best for high-pressure systems in vertical setups.

Tilting Disc Check Valves: These valves use a disc that tilts to let fluid flow one way and stop backflow. They work better than swing valves in systems with pulsing flows.

Wafer Check Valves: These wafer check valves sit between flanges and use a spring-loaded disc. They let fluid flow one way and stop backflow. Their thin shape makes them awesome for small systems.

What Are the Functions of a Check Valve?

Check valves do several key jobs:

· Prevents Backflow: Their main task is to stop fluid from flowing backward in pipes.

· Protects Equipment and Systems: They keep equipment safe by blocking damage from reverse flow.

· Maintains Pressure: They help keep proper pressure levels in a system.

· Enhances System Efficiency: They make systems run better by avoiding extra pumping from backflow.

· Minimizes Water Hammer: Water hammer can damage pipes. Check valves help stop it by blocking reverse flow.

· Allows for System Isolation and Maintenance: They let you shut off parts of a system for fixes or upkeep.

What To Consider When Selecting a Check Valve

Flow Rate and Pressure Drop Considerations

When choosing a check valve, think about the fluid’s flow rate and pressure drop. The valve must handle the system’s needs without losing too much pressure.

Material Selection Considerations

The valve’s material is super important. Different materials resist chemicals and last longer in different ways. Choose one that matches the fluid to avoid rust or wear.

Temperature and Pressure Limitations

Check valves have limits for temperature and pressure. Going past these can cause leaks or break the valve.

Installation, Maintenance, and Cost Considerations

Think about the cost to buy, set up, and maintain the valve. Some designs need tricky setups or lots of care. Fancier valves often cost more to fix or keep up.

Streamline Your System With FLUIDO Valves: The Solution for Efficient Flow Control

FLUIDO is a leading maker and seller of steel valves, fittings, and flanges, serving over 35 countries for more than 20 years. With ISO9001 certification for all partner factories and tough quality checks before shipping, FLUIDO ensures solid performance.

Whether you need wafer swing check valves like the PN16 Single Plate model or tougher ductile iron rubber disc swing types like BS5153 models, FLUIDO has great options for your needs.

Choose FLUIDO products for their trusty performance and because “trust originates from quality.” Whether you’re building new systems or fixing old ones, FLUIDO offers smart solutions that meet performance and budget needs.