Check valves are used in pipelines for preventing backflow. It only allows flow in one direction. A check valve is simply a one-way valve. The flow can move in only one direction in this valve. If the flow starts to flow in the reverse direction, then the valve will close itself. This will ensure that the pipe is protected. If you are not using a check valve, then a water hammer can occur as the flow can reverse its direction. Water hammer can damage your pipeline and other components.
Where are check valves used?
Check valves are heavily used in the industry. They are used to protect the pump from backflow. Centrifugal pumps are the most common type of pumps available in the market. They use check valves for keeping the water in the pipes.
Check valves are also used in HVAC systems. These systems are used in large buildings where the coolant will be pumped multiple storeys up. It is important to ensure that this coolant is not flowing back.
Types of Check Valves
There are various types of check valves that you can use for wastewater and water applications. Every check valve will have a different purpose. Thus, they will have slightly different working. The most common type of check valves present in the market is:
1. Ball Check Valves: This check valve will have a ball that moves inside the valve. The seat will be machined to fit the ball. Also, the chamber will be conically shaped to ensure that the ball fits.
2. Swing Check valves: In this check valve, we will use a disc that swings. The disc is used to control the forward flow and stop the flow. This disc will swing back to stop the reverse flow.
How to choose a check valve?
If you are looking for a check valve, then you should make a cost-benefit analysis. This will help you in finding the best check valve for your business. The main focus is to reduce the cost and also obtain the lowest pressure loss. A higher pressure loss will generally mean a higher safety.
If you want to ensure that your check valve is working properly, then you should assess each component individually. You need to consider factors like the risk of water hammer, cost, and acceptable pressure loss. If you want to choose a good check valve, then you should check out the guide at https://linquip.com/industrial-directories/343/check-valve.
Benefits of Check Valves
The most important benefit of check valves is that they can perform without having to be controlled or monitored. You don’t need to worry about hiring an operator for the check valve. They have a very basic design. Thus, you can insert them easily inside a pipe flow. You can control the flow without managing the valve. Some of the main benefits of check valves are:
1. It will help you in preventing the backflow.
2. You can use it as a safety and backup system.
3. You can use them vertically and horizontally.
4. They are self-actuated.
5. They can endure low and high-pressure conditions.
6. You can use them for protecting compressors and pumps from backflow damage.
7. It will help you in reducing downtime and loss of production.
8. You can use it for reducing sudden valve failure.
9. Check valves are heavily used for preventing water hammers.
10. They are also fast-acting.
11. Check valves are more affordable and they have lower maintenance costs.
12. Check valves have very few moving parts. Thus, you don’t need to worry about maintenance.
13. They don’t need any power to operate.
14. The check valve can keep up with variable flow conditions.
Conclusion
You can use check valves for controlling the flow of liquids and gases. They are already heavily used in the industry. If you are looking for something that can stop the backflow, then the check valve is perfect for you.
