Butterfly Valves: Development and Classification
Butterfly valves are simple devices used to regulate the flow of liquid or gas through a pipe or hose. They are found in a wide range of applications that require precise control, including the pumping of water, the flow of fuel in an automobile, and the distribution of air in an air conditioning system. Butterfly valves have an impressive history, which has shaped their development and classification today.
The Origins of Butterfly Valves
The earliest records of valves used to control the flow of gas and water date back to the 18th century. Some of the first designs employed a butterfly-shaped plate that could be rotated to open and close a valve. Such butterfly valves were used in industrial applications and also to regulate the flow of beer in pubs and taverns.
Butterfly valves had a surge in popularity in the mid-19th century with the development of waterworks. In particular, a type of valve created by John Edison Speeks was widely adopted for the drainage systems of cities in Europe. The so-called Speeks Valve featured a butterfly-shaped gate created from iron and featured an elastic seal around its circumference.
The Development of Butterfly Valves
Since the 19th century, butterfly valves have seen substantial refinements and improvements to their designs and mechanisms. In particular, the development of synthetic materials, such as rubber and PVC, has revolutionized the design of seals and gaskets on valve systems. This has enabled butterfly valves to be used in a variety of industrial and residential applications.
In the 20th century, the development of electro-mechanical controls enabled butterfly valves to be opened and closed by remote command. This allowed operators to regulate the flow of liquid with greater precision and accuracy. Furthermore, modern butterfly valves feature improved mechanisms that enable them to provide tight, leak-free seals even at high pressures and temperatures.
The Classification of Butterfly Valves
Butterfly valves are widely available in a variety of materials and configurations to suit different applications. The following are the main types of butterfly valves available:
• Wafer style butterfly valves – This type of valve has a flat disc-shaped gate that is mounted between two lugs. This type of valve is used in applications with low-pressure requirements.
• Lug style butterfly valves – This type of valve features two lugs connected by a hinge. This design is often used in high-pressure applications, such as oil pipelines.
• Flanged style butterfly valves – This type of valve features flanges that are used to attach the valve to a pipe or duct. It is typically used in applications with low-pressure requirements.
• High performance butterfly valves – These valves are designed to withstand higher pressure and temperature requirements, such as those found in steam and air distribution systems.
• Resilient seated butterfly valves – These valves have a resilient seat that helps to create a tighter, leak-free seal. This makes them well-suited for applications that require a high degree of control.
Conclusion
In conclusion, butterfly valves are a reliable and versatile solution for regulating the flow of liquid or gas. Their development in the 19th and 20th centuries has enabled them to be used in a wide variety of industrial and residential applications, from waterworks and sewage systems to fuel pumping and air conditioning systems. Furthermore, their classification and design continue to evolve to meet the changing requirements of the modern market.
