Butterfly Valves
How Butterfly Valves Work and Where They Are Used
Butterfly valves are one of the most common types of shut-off fittings used in various industrial sectors. The central part of such a valve is a disk that rotates around its axis perpendicular to the flow of liquid or gas, thereby blocking or allowing the flow. The principle of operation of these devices is relatively simple: when the handle or actuator is turned 90 degrees, the disk moves from an open position to a closed one and vice versa, thereby controlling the flow of the working medium.
The areas of application for butterfly valves include:
- Water supply and water treatment;
- Petrochemical industry;
- Food and pharmaceutical industries;
- Heating and ventilation systems;
- Mining industry.
The advantages of using butterfly valves are numerous, including their compactness, reliability, ease of installation and maintenance, and the ability to quickly shut off the flow without creating significant hydraulic resistance. These valves can also be made from various materials, allowing for use in diverse working environments and conditions.
In particular, a manual butterfly valve with a handle is a convenient option for manual flow control, especially in situations where automation is not required and quick operator intervention is important. On the other hand, a flanged butterfly valve is preferred for installation in systems with high sealing requirements, as the flanged connection ensures a reliable and robust fixation of the valve in the pipeline.
Design Features of Butterfly Valves
The main components of a butterfly valve include a body, in which the rotating disk is housed, and a spindle that connects to the actuator, facilitating the disk’s rotation. A crucial aspect is the selection of manufacturing materials: the body and disk are typically made from high-strength metals such as steel, cast iron, or stainless steel, ensuring durability and reliability in operation.
The types of actuators and control mechanisms for butterfly valves are diverse and can be tailored to specific application requirements. There are manual actuators equipped with a handle or handwheel, which require physical effort from the operator to control the valve. Pneumatic, electrical, and hydraulic actuators enable automation of the control process, significantly simplifying the operation of the valve in industrial environments. The choice of actuator type depends on factors such as the availability of power sources, the required opening or closing speed, and the potential for integration into automatic control systems.
Flanged Butterfly Valve
One of the popular modifications is the flanged butterfly valve, which is compact and convenient for installation between pipeline flanges. This allows for simplified installation and removal, as well as space-saving solutions. Such valves are well-suited for systems with limited space and are often used in water supply, heating, and ventilation systems.
When selecting a butterfly valve, an important factor is the price, which can vary based on size, manufacturing materials, actuator type, and manufacturer. However, the cost should be considered alongside quality and operational characteristics to ensure high reliability and a long service life of the equipment. A professional approach to selecting the valve, taking into account all technical parameters and operating conditions, will help ensure the efficiency and safety of technological processes.
Selection and Operation of Butterfly Valves
If reliable control of liquid or gas flow in pipeline systems is needed, butterfly valves are one of the preferred solutions due to their efficiency and durability. The selection of the appropriate butterfly valve should consider several key criteria:
- Type of Medium: Ensure that the valve material is compatible with the chemical composition of the transported medium.
- Pressure and Temperature: The valve must withstand the working pressure and temperature conditions of the system.
- Pipeline Size: Select the valve of appropriate size to ensure sealing and optimal flow.
- Operating Conditions: Consider the conditions under which the valve will be used, including the frequency of opening/closing and accessibility for maintenance.
For instance, a cast iron butterfly valve may be the optimal choice for systems with aggressive or corrosive media due to its corrosion resistance and durability.
Recommendations for Installation and Maintenance of Butterfly Valves from “LET”
Once the suitable valve is selected, it is important to ensure its proper installation and regular maintenance for long-term and reliable operation. Here are some recommendations for installation and maintenance:
- Installation: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure proper alignment of the valve within the pipeline to prevent uneven wear;
- Inspection: Regularly inspect the valve for signs of wear, corrosion, or seal damage;
- Lubrication: Provide adequate lubrication of moving parts, if necessary, to prevent seizing and wear.
- Cleaning: Maintain cleanliness of the valve, especially in the actuator mechanisms, to prevent operational failures.
Following these simple yet important rules will help ensure the reliability and longevity of your butterfly valve, as well as reduce the likelihood of unexpected downtime and additional repair costs.
If you have any questions or need further clarification, feel free to contact “LET.” Our team of professionals is always ready to assist you with any inquiries. We value each client and strive to provide quality service. You can reach us by phone ☎ +7 (495) 232-00-66.