What are valves?

Valves are mechanical devices that regulate, control, or direct fluids, including gases, slurries, liquids, and fluidized solids by opening, closing, or blocking pathways.

The working principle of valves is the same as those of a water pump: When the valve opens, there is a flow of water into the pipe, and when it closes, there is no more flow.

Valves can be found in automobiles, construction machinery, and heavy machinery. They play an important role in any process where control and regulation of fluid flow and pressure of air or gas are necessary to prevent damage to pipes and other components of mechanical equipment.

Components of valves

Some of the main components of valves include:

• Actuator: This is a device that controls the opening and closing of a valve. It consists of a diaphragm, springs, and other components.
• Manifold: This connects to an actuator and regulates the pressure in a pipeline by controlling valves.

Different types of valves

• Gate Valves: These valves only have one opening
• Manifold Valves: These valves have two openings
• Gate Valves: These valves have two openings, one for an inlet and another for an outlet
• Check Valves: These valves close off when there is no fluid in the pipe

Application of valves

Valves are found in every industrial process, such as:

• Water and sewage process
• Mining
• Power generation
• Processing of oils
• Gas and petroleum
• Food manufacturing
• Chemical and plastic manufacturing