The Commercial Shutoff Valve

According to a report released by the Global Industrial Valves market, the market sales
for shutoff valves are expected to hit and surpass the $77 billion mark in the next three
years. The skyrocketing demand for these valves is a result of the rapid industrialization
that has been happening globally in the past decade.

A shutoff valve prevents flow in a system. But do you know how they work and what
could go wrong with them? Read this guide and understand the basics.

Types of Industrial Shutoff Valves

Shut off valves are an incredibly important part of any company involved in
manufacturing. These valves help regulate the flow of liquids and even gases.
Described herein are some of the basic valves that you can use in your industry.

Gate Valves

Also known as full-flow, on/off or isolation valves, they’ve been around for quite a long
time. Their popularity can be credited to their simple design, which significantly reduces
manufacturing costs.

Just as the name suggests, gate valves are used to start or halt the flow of a fluid. They
achieve this through an internal gate which rises and lowers depending on the
movement of the circular knob on top of the valve.

Even though they make excellent valves, gate valves can’t function as throttling valves
as this tends to erode or wear them out. Gate valves are a common sight in process
industries due to their ability to withstand high temperature and pressure.

Ball Valves

Ball valves are different from other valves in that they use a ball instead of a gate to
control liquid flow. Due to this unique aspect, a ball valve can serve as an on/off valve
and at the same time can be used to regulate the fluid flow. Therefore, they’re more
common in the industrial sector than gate valves.

Close up of closed red ball valve brass on pipe

Other than that, ball valves can support high pressure and temperatures and also boast
a low-pressure drop. They’re also cost-effective, offer leak-proof services, and due to
their design can open and close quickly depending on the situation at hand. However,
even though they’re effective in liquid flow regulation, you can’t rely on them for
permanent throttling.

Butterfly Valves

Butterfly valves are also categorized under isolation valves. They derive their name
from their wing-like movement when in action. In recent years, there has been a
massive demand for these types of shutoff valves, especially in the oil, gas, and
automation industries.

This demand is attributed to the unique quarter-turn operation, which enables quick and
easy usage. These valves are also very accurate, which makes them even more useful
in the regulation of liquids and gases.

On top of that, they’re easy to install and require minimal maintenance. These features
make them even more prevalent in industrial applications.

Globe Valves

Globe valves offer excellent functionality for applications where frequent operation is
required or throttling of the flow is desired. The elongated flow path tends to allow a dampening effect, which is much different than the simple on/off operation of gate and
ball valves.

Globe valves tend to be easy to service and find favor in many chemical, fuel oil and
industrial gas applications. CPV has offered their O-SEAL®, Mark VIII®, and G-
Series® style of globe valves for many years and has decades of field-proven
performance to attest to the safety, reliability and ease of operation of the design.

Other Common Types of Valves Include:

Stop Valves
Check valves
Relief or Safety valves
Straight fixture shutoff valves

There are many other types of valves. Therefore, you should explore an extensive list to
choose what best suits your company.

Explore More Shutoff Valve Types

In a nutshell, there’re so many shutoff valves in the industrial realm today. Each shutoff
valve packs unique features which help improve the efficiency of your manufacturing
process. Check our page to learn more about shutoff valves and enjoy enhanced
efficiency today!

How to Maintain an Angle Globe Valve

No matter how big or small, every piece of any industrial system is a key player in the health of the system. Maintaining every valve and piping is a constant process.

The angle globe valve is one of many different varieties of valves that you can place in your systems. It, like all of its other varieties, has a specific set of operations and maintenance requirements.

Today we will go over the core values that you need to maintain to keep all your angle globe valves operating. Read on below for the full information.

The Core of the Angle Globe Valve

An angle globe valve is a type of valve that is often used in a steam system that requires a throttling service. It has pros and cons for the system that it is set up in.

Due to the rounded globe structure at the base of the valve, it gives an advantage to its throttling service. The seat design utilizes this globe as it comes down to connect with the seat, letting the flow cut off in gradual portions.

This can cause larger pressure drops and turbulence down the line, so you must use it in particular areas and with caution.

Maintenance Steps

The angle globe valve shares a lot of the important steps in maintaining the valve as the majority of important pressure vales. This can help you streamline the maintenance process within the entire system.

1. Regular Inspection

With pressure build-up and a lot of tension in small places, there must be a regular inspection of all the valves in the system. This can help spot a problem before it can cause any damage.

Organize your workers to add routine inspection to their standard processes. How many people you need for inspection and how often you should run inspection depends on the size of your system.

There is little harm in too many inspections, other than wasted man hours. Wasted hours is a better loss than damaged equipment.

2. Valve Cycling

If a valve is not operated on a regular manner, it may need cycling. This process should be on a regular basis to ensure the disc is not bedding itself into the seat.

3. Proper Bolt Tightening

During inspections, look at the general tightness of all the gland bolts around the valve. Make sure that they remain at a constant tightness.

Overtightening bolts can cause unneeded pressure on the system. Under tightening them can risk the system itself falling apart as pressure increases.

4. Monitoring Pressure

Pressure should always have a constant monitor on them. If pressure goes wild, it may only give you a few moments to react before something gets ruined.

There are many devices that can give you exact pressure measurements. These systems can connect to a larger computer monitoring system for easy access from anywhere.

5. Ensuring Lubrication

Make sure the crossbar remains well lubricated at all times. Apply additional grease on the grease nipple as needed.

The spindle may also need lubrication from time to time. Do not neglect this part.

Good Equipment Providing Great Service

The angle globe valve is one example of a hardworking piece of hardware that needs the utmost attention to keep in working order. If you give it the diligence it requires, it will remain the workhorse of your system.

We here at CPV Manufacturing have been leaders in the creation and maintenance of quality valves and fittings. When you need equipment you can rely on, we have the service you need.

Valve Hieroglyphics: How to Read Globe Valve Symbols

If you’ve ever tried to decipher industry planning documents, then you know that it’s
full of strange symbols that look like they’re straight out of The Da Vinci Code. It’s
important to understand each of these symbols as they can affect how you maintain
the system, operate the valves, and more.

The good news is once you learn what different symbols are, it’s easy to read valve
hieroglyphics.

In this post, we’re going over the various globe valve symbols you could see.

When Would You See Globe Valve Symbols?

Globe valves regulate flow in a single linear direction. When in the open position, the
valve allows flow. In the closed position, it stops flow.

They operate with excellent precision, more than similar gate valves, and they also
close and open with a shorter stroke than similar valves.

They’re most often used in cooling systems, fuel lines, turbine lube oil systems, steam
lines/systems, and water systems.

Universal Globe Valve Symbol

The symbol for a globe valve is two sideways triangles on the same linear line with
the points touching in the middle. Where the points touch, there’s a black circle. You
can see a picture of it here.

Angle Globe Valve Symbol

Globe valves can also be made to work at angles. If you see two triangles with points
touching in an”L” configuration and a black circle where the points meet, that
indicates an angled globe valve.

Other Valve Symbols You May See

Globe valves aren’t the only valve symbols you’ll see, even if you’re working in one of
the systems where globe valves are most often used. They also can look similar to
globe valves, so it’s important to learn the differences.

Ball Valve

Ball valves have the same symbol as the globe valve, except the circle in the middle
of the triangles is white, not black.

Plug Valve

Plug valves also have two sideways triangles with points touching in the middle. The
difference between the plug valve symbol and the globe valve symbol is instead of a
black circle, the plug valve symbol has a white rectangle.

You may also see the rectangle depicted as a diamond.

Gate Valve

The gate valve symbol is simply the two triangles mentioned multiple times with the
points touching. When the gate valve is “closed”, the triangles are filled in black.

Needle Valve

A needle valve features the two triangles with a line going perpendicular through the
touching points. You may also see this line depicted as an arrow in some cases.

Learn How to Decipher Valve Symbols

Globe valve symbols are simple to understand once you know what to look for. Now
that you understand those and other common valve symbols, you should be better
prepared to examine industry and system plans.

That’s only part of the battle, though. You also need to know when to use each type of
valve and which will work best for each application. If you need some help on that
part, read our article on how to choose the right valve for the job.

A Quick Guide to Relief Valve Maintenance

Too much pressure in a device or system can lead to a dangerous rupture or explosion. Devices like pressure relief valves are essential to help prevent accidents.

Maintaining these devices is also essential. Here is our quick guide to relief valve maintenance.

Why a Relief Valve Matters

Relief devices are designed to allow venting, which helps release the pressure that has built up inside a device. They are meant to be a stop-gap in case other safety devices fail.

A pressure relief valve is essential with vessels or systems that operate by means of compressed air or fluids, such as hydraulics, pneumatics or electricity. Aside from pressure, they can also help control temperature and flow within the system.

Relief Valve Maintenance Standards

In order for relief valves to function (and stave off a possible disaster) they must open automatically whenever a predetermined amount of pressure has been reached. They also need to close once the pressure has been normalized.

There are strict Standards, Codes, and Practices when it comes to maintaining pressure relief valves. The ASME Code (ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code) is the most widely used and accepted of these.

Although the ASME Code is voluntary, most states have adopted the rules as mandatory regulations. Be sure to research the specific Standards and Codes for your state or county. Failing to be “up to code” can lead to fines and/or legal action.

6 Maintenance Tips for Relief Valves

Aside from using the ASME Code, there are things you can do to ensure relief valves work properly. Keep these 6 maintenance tips in mind.

Check for broken or leaking pilot systems

Leaks and cracks in the pilot system can affect the function of relief valves. Check the tightness of fittings and look for water leaking from the joint.

Check for air in the pilot system

Compressible air in the pilot system can result in incorrect pressure readings. Relief valves can even become unstable. If you see an air pocket in the sight glass (above the water level), you’ll need to vent the main valve bonnet.

Clean the strainer screen

If the strainer becomes clogged, it can block the water supply and lead to control valve failure. Be sure to keep the strainer screen clean so the valve will open and close as needed.

Replace plugged fittings

The small orifices inside pilot systems can become blocked, too. If this happens, drill out the fitting and soak it in a cleaning solution. If that doesn’t work, you may have to replace the fittings.

Test the main valve diaphragm

Main valve diaphragms can wear out over time because of mineral buildup. You can perform a simple test to see if the diaphragm is leaking water into the pilot system.

Test the pilot diaphragm

If water is dripping or leaking from the control pilot, you have a problem. You will have to take the pilot diaphragm out and replace it.

Use These Maintenance Tips to Prevent Major Accidents

Proper maintenance of a pressure relief valve is essential to avoid catastrophic failures and dangerous explosions. These 6 tips offer a brief guide, but always consult the ASME Code for more thorough recommendations.

If you need to buy pressure relief valves, we can help you find the right kind for your system. Contact CVP Manufacturing for more information about requirements, recommended applications or to request a quote.

The Check Valve Maintenance Guide

Have you checked your check valves lately? They require careful maintenance in order to ensure the safe flow of fluid and prevent overflow. Damage or wear can lead to a host of problems.

What systems do you have in place to ensure a “healthy” check valve? We have your easy guide to maintaining them.

Why Check Valves Matter

What is the purpose of check valves? If you need fluids to flow through pipes in one direction, you can’t do without them. Check valve design incorporates a two-port system, with an opening that allows fluid to pass through.

Once the fluid has passed, the valve closes to prevent backflow. Check valves can also automatically shut off if the downstream pressure builds too much.

Common uses of check valves:

Water & waste pumping systems
Water pipes
Sewage systems
Heating systems
Fire hoses
Marine & Naval industry
Oil & gas pipelines
Flush toilet mechanisms

There are many different types of check valves, including swing check valves, lift check valves, piston check valves, and ball check valves.

Maintaining a Check Valve

A check valve doesn’t require too much maintenance. They are built to last for years. However, they can develop leaks if debris or other foreign particles get stuck between the ball and the seat, causing check valve function to degrade.

Step 1: Keep it clean

Take steps to prevent damage to check valves by keeping the area clean. If you can reach the valve, all you should need is a towel to wipe off dust and dirt. If the debris is caked on, use a wire brush.

Step 2: Keep an eye out

Another easy tip is to do regular inspections of your equipment. It’s a good way to spot potential problems before you end up needing expensive repairs.

Check valve inspection:

Check for leaks
Look for signs of corrosion, rust or mineral build-up
Replace the valve if there are extensive leaks or worn/broken pieces
Open & close the valves to make sure they aren’t seizing
Inspect pressure & temperature of fluid flowing through
Ensure they aren’t close or over the rated limit for the valves

NOTE: Be sure to monitor high-stress and high-pressure valves more frequently.

Step 3: Clean everything up

You’ll need to take the valve out and disassemble it to look for debris and scratches. Wash all the parts with hydraulic fluid or whatever fluid is used in your pipe system.

Check the housing for corrosion, damage or a rough surface. Buffing can help take care of rough surfaces.

Step 4: Keep the valve lubricated

This step is often overlooked, but lubrication can keep you from having to replace or repair valves. It can also ensure optimum check valve operation, helping them last longer.

Rotate the valve to make sure the lubricant gets into the valve cavity.

Be sure to use the correct lubricant for your system. Each system has specific requirements and if you use the wrong one it could damage the valves. For example, lubricants with clay or other solid-based thickeners can harden, leaving residue behind.

Step 5: Apply protective insulation

Extreme temperature changes can affect check valve functions. They can even cause expensive damage. If your pipes are outside, you may need to add and inspect protective insulation as part of your maintenance routine.

Maintain Check Valves Now. Prevent Headaches Later.

Maintaining a check valve is the easiest way to prevent damage and expensive repairs. These tips will help to ensure your valves work efficiently and safely.

If you need to buy check valves, we can help you find the right kind for your system. Contact CVP Manufacturing for more information about requirements, recommended and applications or to request a quote.

Your Complete Guide to Valve Pipeline Usage

Valves: We all benefit from them and we all use them, even if we don’t know it.

But do you know why we use them, or why they are necessary? There are
many different kinds of valves, and each has a different purpose and use.

Here, we will guide you through the world of valve pipeline connections!

But first, what are valves, and what are they used for?

What Are Valves?

Valves are important components of a pipeline system used to control the rate and
speed of flow, as well as the pressure of various contents such as oil, gas, or some
other liquid.

So, what does a valve look like? Pipeline valves typically are much bigger than the
pipe itself, and will usually stick out of the ground. Regulations require that valves get
placed in locations that will minimize any environmental or other impacts in the event
of pipeline issues or failure.

To put it more plainly, pipeline valves must get placed in locations that make sense
and placed in such a way that anticipates a worst case scenario pipeline issue.

Valves are typically utilized for maintenance purposes. For example, when a valve is
located in a well-placed location, it can reduce the amount of oil or other fluid that
gets spilled in an emergency or pipeline issue.

Valves serve a great purpose in terms of safety and the smooth operation of a pipeline,
as they are normally incorporated into an overarching control system in order to make
sure the pipeline valves are operating smoothly and safely.

However, each valve on a pipeline also serves to make the pipeline more complex,
and can actually at times be a liability if the valve is unreliable or prone to leakage.

Maintenance of Valves

Valves must be maintained regularly, especially pipeline valves.

Pipelines use a wide array of valves to control fluids both on and below the surface, so
most pipeline operators have preventative and repair policies for the valves in order to
ensure the valves longevity and its continued operation.

Some maintenance can be completed at the site where the valve is on the pipeline,
while other more complex or difficult repairs must be done in a shop.

Valve Pipeline Types

There are various types of valves for pipelines. Here is an outline of a few of the more
common ones:

Gate Valves

These are the most common type of valve around. They are used to start or stop the
flow of liquid. In practice, these valves are either wide open or completely shut. These
valves are great for shutoff. Gate valves come in different styles for different
purposes.

Globe Valves

These can control and regulate the flow of liquid. These are utilized in systems that
require good control over the flow. They are also excellent for shutoffs but are
normally more expensive than gate valves.

Check Valves

These work to stop any backflow in a pipeline system. Fluid passing through the line
opens up a check valve, but if the flow starts going the other way, the backward flow
closes the valve.

Butterfly Valves

These stop or start flow, and regulate it as well. These valves are compact and
lightweight, requiring less space in comparison to valves that do similar actions.

Needle Valves

These are similar in design to a globe valve, the main difference between the two
being the sharp needle that gives precise control of flow.

Pressure Relief Valves

These are used to protect a pipeline system during high-pressure events or when a
vacuum occurs. The valves release the pressure to a point that would have been
determined upon installation, so it is not just a complete release of pressure. There are
different relief valves for different purposes.

More On Valves, Fittings and More

We hope you found this information on valve pipeline connections helpful.

If you still have questions about all things valve & fittings, feel free to reach out to us.
We would be happy to assist you.

Everything You Need to Know About Valve Symbols

Valves are the unsung hero of almost all industrial and engineering applications. You can find valves in use in pipelines, oil and gas, food and beverage, biopharma, marine, and many other industries.

No matter what the final industry is, each of them uses planning documents and diagrams to outline their system processes.

Without knowing the valve symbols, you’ll be at a loss for understanding the system.

Gate Valves

A gate valve will open or cut off the flow of water through a pipe. They typically have a wheel handle that gets turned to operate the metal disk that blocks the flow.

Its symbol looks like the outline of a bowtie with two straight lines crossing each other to form an “X”. Then two vertical lines connect the ends to create an enclosed shape.

Globe Valves

These valves are similar to the gate valve in how they regulate the flow of liquid. The main difference being the movable disk and stationary ring.

To differentiate these valves from gate valves, there’s a solid circle placed over the center of the “X” shape.

Ball Valves

A ball valve increases the control you have over the flow of liquid. Unlike the previous two that are straight on and off, a ball valve can direct the flow to align with a port.

The symbol is slightly different by making the solid center circle an outline instead.

Plug Valve

These valves control flow by using a linear motion to move a cylindrical or conically shaped plug inside of the body of the valve. To signify these valves, an outline of a diamond is used in the place of the circle.

Needle Valve

A needle valve is a perfect solution for when you need precise control of a low flow rate. A needle-shaped plunger moves up and down within the valve to open and close a small port.

To signify this precise valve on a diagram, the bowtie symbol is used with a downward pointing arrow in the center.

Diaphragm Valves

These valves have multiple ports within the body of the valve. The system then uses air pressure to control the opening and closing of the different valves.

Since these valves operate slightly differently from the previous valves we’ve discussed, it’s no surprise we see the first real variation in the symbol.

Take the bowtie symbol we have established and draw a horizontal line through the center of it. Now erase the top half. What you’re left with is the symbol for a diaphragm valve.

Butterfly Valves

These valves excel in tight locations. They have a spring-loaded handle that locks the valve into the open position.

The symbol for these valves consists of two vertical parallel lines. Then a diagonal line extends from the top of the left line to the bottom of the right line. In the center is a solid circle.

Know Your Valve Symbols

Knowing your valve symbols will make your life much easier when it comes time to decipher your pipe and system diagram. While each of these symbols has several variables for their different types of valves, these main category symbols will help get a general understanding.

Use our valve product selection guide to find the perfect part for your specific application.

How to Select the Right Actuator Valves

In the US, the valve manufacturing industry revenues reached $35 billion last year. An important
segment of that is valve actuators, which are necessary for the opening and closing of valves.

How many industries utilize valves and valve actuators? You might guess the automotive industry,
government military, oil, and gas. The list goes on.

Do you know how to choose the correct type of actuator to fit your needs? Do you have an idea of
how many actuator types there are out there?

There are more kinds of actuated valves than you would imagine. Here are some tips on how to
pick the right actuator valves for your needs.

Selecting the Right Actuator Valves

Before selecting an actuator valve, you need to understand the various types available and the
functions of each. Let’s take a look at what they do and some of the different types of actuator
valves.

What is an Actuator Valve?

When there’s a valve, there has to be a way to operate it. That’s where actuators come in to play.
Manual actuators are controlled by people. Automatic valve actuators work through various power
sources.

Automatic options available include: the electric valve actuator; the pneumatic actuator, which is
powered by compressed air (this is the type most commonly supplied by CPV); and the hydraulic
actuator which works with the flow of oil. The need for a person to operate them is removed.

Why is Choosing the Right Type of Actuator Important?

The actuator valve is very important in the overall functioning of the valve. Engineers have a key
role in making the right choice for the system to operate in a cost-effective and efficient manner.

Two Main Types of Valve Operation

Because there are two ways for a valve to operate, a clear understanding of how they work is
necessary before making a choice.

1. Linear Operation

In this type of operation, the valve works through linear motion. Examples include globe and pinch
valves.

2. Rotary Operation

Rotational motion allows the valve to work. Examples include butterfly and ball valves.

What to Consider When Choosing an Actuator Valve

Where it’s going to be applied
What is its usage
Accessibility
Temperature
Frequency of operation
Speed of operation
Special requirements
Valve size
Available power source
Safety
Cost
Reliability

Once all of these things have been considered, the correct actuator valve can be chosen. For
example, a pneumatic actuator would be the best for use in a hazardous area because they are
unlikely to explode. They can also operate in temperatures up to 250 degrees.

Conversely, an electric valve actuator will work in temperatures down to -40 degrees. If there is no
electricity available, pneumatic or hydraulic valve actuators must be used. In these cases, there
must be adequate air supply or fluid pressure.

The Right One for the Job

Now you’ve learned how to select the right one of the different types of actuator valves. We at CPV
Manufacturing can help you with any of your valve needs. Contact us today.

Your Guide to Globe Valve Maintenance

Ancient Romans were the first people to create a system of moving water from one place to
another. They also needed a way to control the water once they got it where they wanted it. Enter
valves!

Valves allow us to stop or restrict the flow of liquid when necessary. But there’s nothing more
frustrating (or dangerous) than a valve failure.

That’s why globe valves are designed to work for many years. However, they only function as long
as they’re maintained correctly.

In this article, we’ll give you the basics of globe valve maintenance to improve the longevity of
your valves.

Start with Proper Installation & Operation

Globe valves work in one direction only. Keep this in mind when you’re installing the valve. Proper
installation means less wear and tear on the valve over time.

Mount the valve vertically on the pipe with the handwheel pointing up. This puts the working parts
of the assembly under less pressure.

Never overtighten the handwheel. Overtightening puts added pressure on the gland packing. If
there are issues with leaks, it means there’s a problem with the seat or the plug.

Regular Inspection

Set up a regular inspection timetable for your valve systems. How often you do this depends on the
type of fluid that the valve is regulating, how much pressure is on the valve, and how often the
valve is cycled during daily operation.

When performing regular inspections, check the outside of the valve for signs of wear. If the valve
doesn’t operate on a regular basis, cycle the valve at the time of inspection. This keeps the guide
from becoming stuck in the seat.

Then dismantle the valve so you can check interior parts. Note, before you dismantle, make sure to
turn the pressure off and let it cool before you handle it.

External Globe Valve Maintenance

Check the motion of the stem, which is often the threaded piece exposed to the elements and can
easily become dirty or gritty. Lubricate it often to ensure smooth function of the valve.

If any of the external hardware (nuts, washers, bolts) show signs of wear, replace them. Tighten the
hardware during regular maintenance. Those components tend to loosen with frequent use of the
valve.

Clean the outer surfaces with a cleaning solution and scrape away any buildup. Ensure that there’s
no grease on the handwheel to prevent it from slipping when turned.

Internal Globe Valve Maintenance

Disassemble the valve according to the manufacturer instructions. Then check all of the internal
parts for wear and tear.

Inspect the interior of the valve body and bonnet and remove any scale or residue buildup. Then
check the plug and the seat.

Sand down small scratches using an abrasive compound. Or use machine tools to lap down larger
scratches.

When the valve is shut, it puts pressure on the gland packing, compressing it. Over time, it can
become hard and lose its ability to hold pressure. Replace the gland packing if this happens.

When you reassemble the valve, use new o-rings and gaskets to ensure a tight seal.

Maintain Your Valves for Improved Longevity

Proper globe valve maintenance can add years to the life of your valves. Make sure the valves are
installed and operated properly. Then set up a regular inspection schedule that includes both
internal and external maintenance.

Taking these simple steps ensures that your valves won’t fail. It’s a safer and more cost-effective
way to operate.

At CPV Manufacturing, we offer top-of-the-line technical support to our customers. Check out
our Technical Resources page to learn more about how to maintain valves the right way.

5 Most Common Types of Petrochemical Valves

Valves are used in a variety of industry types in order to control flow and pressure of liquid, gas, oil, vapor, etc. They effectively control the piping system, which is especially critical when working with chemicals and extreme pressure/temperature as you do in the petrochemical industry.

Petroleum is used for a number of applications in everything from creating plastics to rubber, and the petrochemical industry works at refining these products as well as fiber raw and natural gas materials.

While there are many types of valves out there, this article is going to detail five of the most common petrochemical valves. We’ll detail how the valve works and what it does for the petrochemical industry.

1. Plug Valve

This cylindrical or cone-shaped valve works to either allow or stop (aka “plug”) the flow. It switches between the “open” and “plugged” position via rotation.

In the open position, the internal hollow passages are open and allow the liquid and/or chemicals to flow. In the “plugged” position, the valve is rotated to block the hollow internal passages and stop flow. Check out this video to see a visual of how this works.

Since they are high-capacity valves that can handle high temperatures and function best in low-pressure applications, they are often used in petroleum pipelines.

2. Globe Valves

Globe valves work only in one direction, so you must make sure to install them correctly. They can be used to stop and start flow with high precision, which effectively regulates many pipe systems. These type of valves are often used for oil, fuel, and chemical control and transport in the petrochemical industry.

They’re versatile in their design and are easy to maintain, which is great for this industry. O-SEAL® Globe Valves from CPV are examples of this type; they are designed to ensure leak-proof, bubble-tight seating for thousands of cycles.

3. Knife Gate Valves

Petroleum is a viscous and thick substance, which is why knife gate valves are often used. Knife gate valves can easily cut through thicker substances and fluids like petroleum. However, they aren’t good under high pressure, which limits their versatility.

As the name suggests, this valve uses a knife-like blade that physically cuts through thick substances to regulate flow.

4. Slide Gate Valves

The slide gate valve is a linear motion valve that, unlike the knife gate valve, is designed to handle dry powders, granules, pellets, etc. It uses a sliding plate, as opposed to the blade in a knife gate valve, in order to stop the flow of dry materials.

Depending on the application in the petrochemical industry, you could use either a knife gate or a slide gate valve.

5. Vacuum Relief Valves

Vacuum relief valves are also called “breather” valves because they provide pressure and temperature relief to pipes and tanks.

Many areas of the petrochemical industry will result in building high pressure and temperature that needs to be relieved to avoid dangerous explosions, damage, and other consequences.

Before installing, speak with your manufacturer to ensure that it follows the American Petroleum Institute’s standards.

Using the Right Petrochemical Valves Is Important for Safety and Efficiency

These five common petrochemical valves ensure the petrochemical industry runs smoothly in all contexts. They’re also imperative for maintaining safety.

Need more information? Contact us to learn more and ask any questions you still have.