Choosing the Right Butterfly Valve
This article outlines the factors that go into choosing the right butterfly valve for a given application. We will first discuss the two types of butterfly valves, high-performance and resilient. We will then look at what criteria should be used when selecting between the two. Finally, we will provide some examples of common applications and their corresponding valve type.
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The Butterfly Valve is a common form of valve used in many applications. It derives its name from the two semicircular plates that rotate together to open and close the valve. These plates look like the wings of a butterfly, hence the name.
Butterfly valves are divided into two main types, high-performance and resilient. High-performance butterfly valves are designed to provide superior performance and are usually used in high-pressure, high-temperature applications. They are typically made of higher quality materials such as stainless steel, alloyed steel, or a combination of both. Resilient butterfly valves are designed to be more cost-effective and are used in lower-pressure, lower-temperature applications. They are usually made of more economical materials such as PVC or polypropylene.
When selecting a butterfly valve for a specific application, it is important to consider the following criteria:
Size: The size of the valve is determined by the size of the pipe/fitting to which it will be attached. Make sure to select the appropriate size for your application.
Pressure and Temperature: Make sure to select the appropriate valve for the pressure and temperature of the application. High-performance valves are required for higher pressures and temperatures, whereas resilient valves are typically sufficient for lower pressures and temperatures.
Material of Construction: Make sure to select the appropriate material for the application. High-performance valves are typically made from stainless steel, alloyed steel, or a combination of both, while resilient valves are usually made of PVC or polypropylene.
Purpose: Make sure to select the appropriate valve for the intended purpose. High-performance butterfly valves are more suitable for systems that require precise control of flow, while resilient butterfly valves are typically more suitable for basic water shutoff applications.
Once these criteria have been considered, the appropriate valve can be selected. Here are some examples of common applications and the corresponding valve type:
Water shutoff: Resilient valve.
High-pressure systems: High-performance valve.
Steam systems: High-performance valve.
Chemical applications: High-performance valve.
Food and beverage industries: Resilient valve.
In conclusion, the criteria that should be used when selecting the appropriate butterfly valve for a given application include size, pressure and temperature, material of construction, and intended purpose. Knowing these criteria will allow you to make the right choice for your applications.
