Breather Valves
Breather valves are designed to manage air flow in pipe systems and pressure containers. They are installed to allow air to escape and enter the system while keeping pressure and liquid contents stable. Breather valves help to balance the internal foam pressure of tanks and process systems, which keep them secure over longer periods of time. Further, they serve other functions such as protecting the system and components from dust, wind, and rains, maintaining atmospheric pressure, as well as controlling the desired temperature within the system. The use of breather valves is widespread in the petroleum industry, chemical process plants, and other sectors.
Types
Breather valves are classified based on their type of operation, valve materials, and design. Vacuum-type breather valves are used for low pressure applications; the second type is the balanced-type breather valve, which is suitable for applications with fluctuating pressure. A third type, the spring-loaded, is preferred for applications with high pressure (above 15 bar).
Operation Type
The vacuum-type breather valve works by allowing air to enter or escape, depending on the system pressure. When there is a decrease in pressure in the system, the diaphragm opens and air enters in. This process helps balance the internal pressure of the system. On the other hand, when the pressure in the system increases, the diaphragm closes, blocking any air coming in.
The balanced-type breather valve is designed for applications with fluctuating pressure. It works similar to a vacuum-type valve, but the difference is that it has two diaphragms instead of one. This helps the valve to keep control of the system pressure and to keep it in balance. The two diaphragms are operated by the pendulum, which helps to keep the valve in balance.
The spring-loaded type breather valve is designed for high pressure applications. It uses a spring-loaded mechanism to maintain the pressure inside the system at the desired level. This type of breather valve is also known as a pressure-regulator valve as it helps to regulate and maintain the pressure in the system. The spring-loaded type breather valve is very efficient and reliable and is widely used in the petroleum industry.
Valve Materials
Breather valves are made using various materials such as Carbon Steel, Stainless Steel, Brass, and Aluminum. The choice of material depends on the type of application and the environment in which the valve is expected to work. Carbon Steel is the least expensive and is corrosion-resistant as well, making it suitable for applications that involve moderate temperatures and pressures. However, it is not resistant to rust formation.
Stainless steel is the most preferred material for breather valves as it has good corrosion and temperature resistance and is also highly durable. It is especially suitable for high temperature and pressure applications. Brass is also suitable for moderate temperature and pressure applications and is relatively low-priced.
Design
Breather valves come in a variety of sizes and configurations. The size of the valve depends on the size of the system in which it is to be installed. In addition, the configuration also matters, and it is important to choose the right type of valve based on the system requirements. The most commonly used designs are the flange-mounted valves and the upright valves.
Flange-mounted valves are used in applications where the system requires the installation of an additional flange. This type of valve is usually more expensive than the upright valve, but it is also more efficient.
Upright valves are designed to mount directly on the system without the need for additional flanges. This type of valve is generally easier to install and is preferred for smaller systems.
Conclusion
Breather valves are vital to the stability and safety of specific systems. They are used to balance the pressure of the system and to keep the atmosphere safe and clean. The type of valve used will depend on the application and the system requirements. They come in various materials, sizes, and designs, so it is important to choose the right one to ensure optimal performance.
