Finding the Right Check Valves for the Shipbuilding Industry

Fire and flooding! These are the two greatest threats to a ship’s life while at sea, and by extension, to all souls aboard. Shipbuilders consider this and design safety into all facets of ship construction, from the keel up to the mast top.

No matter what type of waterborne vessel we are talking about, from tugboats to Navy combatant ships to cargo container transports, Archimedes’ principle (the physical law of buoyancy) only applies if the ship retains its watertight integrity.

Many factors contribute to a ship’s ability to maintain watertight integrity and stay afloat. Among them being effective rubber gaskets on doors and hatches, painting and preservation that prevents hull deterioration, and check valves in critical systems.

A fire aboard ship can be caused by carelessness like the incorrect storage of hazardous materials. Fires can also be sparked by flammable liquids or gases leaking or cross-contamination. What prevents this disaster?

The answer is check valves that are properly aligned and functioning correctly.

Let’s learn more about check valves for shipbuilding and how they are used to help keep crews and passengers safe while transiting the world’s waterways.

What Are Check Valves For Shipbuilding?

Check valves are designed to prevent reverse flow of fluids and gases within a system. Their main purpose is to keep media (or “fluid”) flowing in one direction – forward. They are two-port valves, which means they have two openings in the body: one for fluid to enter and the other for fluid to leave.

Because check valves operate automatically without manual intervention, they prevent flooding which may occur due to gravity or upon system shutdown (especially unplanned shutdown due to power loss, for example).

How Do Check Valves Work?

Consider fluid moving through a piping system, such as fuel or lubricating oil for the ship’s engines. Leakage or backflow of such fluids would spell trouble if it occurs. Not only could the ship go “dead in the water,” but a fire could result.

Spring Check valves are commonly used in such systems. These valves are made with a flat disc attached to a cylindrical stem, and a spring retained in the body, keeping the disc closed against a valve seat. When the disc lifts, it allows fluid to enter and flow through the system in one direction. This action causes the valve to open. If fluid pressure decreases or flow begins to reverse, the disc is triggered to close against the valve seat by the spring force against it, thus protecting system safety.

Our Products Help Ships’ Systems Operate Safely

Shipbuilding is a demanding industry. While the finished product, such as an oil tanker or Navy aircraft carrier, can be quite large, the smallest internal components are often the most critical to the safety of the ship, its systems, and its personnel.

We manufacture valves and fittings that are designed and tested to the highest standards in the industry. Our name has been synonymous with high quality and reliability for over 100 years.

We have worked with the US Navy for over six decades, supplying valves and fittings that are currently installed in all Navy aircraft carriers and nuclear submarines.

We Are Buoyant About Our Future!

We are your go-to source, whether it’s check valves for shipbuilding, or valves and fittings for other industrial or high pressure applications.

Interested in learning more about CPV Manufacturing’s product lines? Have questions regarding applications and best practices? Contact us today!

Globe Valve vs Ball Valve: Which One Is Right for the Job?

How many kinds of plumbing valves can you name? Most people may not know the names of any
of them. Or maybe you know one or two.

There more than 7 different kinds of valves used in plumbing.

Two of them are globe valves and ball valves. When you think of a globe valve vs ball valve, you
might think they are almost identical. But our common vocabulary fails us in this case.

Keep reading to learn the difference between these two pieces of equipment.

How Globe Valves Work

Globe valves, at one time, were used more often than any other valve. In some applications, they
are the most sensible choice.

Globe valves regulate flow in one direction only. If you install them backward, the seals won't last
long. And then the valve will, of course, fail.

Much like other valves, the globe valve opens to allow flow and closes to stop it. However, unlike
some others, it can also regulate flow with excellent precision.

Glove valves have a few specific advantages. They have a shorter stroke to shut them off than a
gate valve. And they close more completely than a gate valve.

Plus, you can find them in different styles, each with different applications. Also, as parts wear out,
it isn’t difficult to machine or resurface them.

Globe valves have some drawbacks as well. They have a much higher pressure drop than gate
valves, which means some wasted energy.

How Ball Valves Work

A ball valve has a shape like a bead. But the hole in the center is the same size as the pipe. It has
gaskets on either side of the flow to allow for a complete shutoff.

You can install it any way you want to. No matter which end you choose as up, one quarter turn
one way turns the flow on and the other way turns it off.

Usually, one finds these with a straight handle. When the handle is parallel to the pipe, the valve is
open all the way. When at a right angle to the pipe, you have turned off the flow.

These valves have high durability. They last a long time because of how little motion it takes to
turn it on or off.

However, they have their faults as well. You cannot regulate the flow very well using a ball valve.
Once they start to open, they reach peak flow fast.

Globe Valve vs Ball Valve

If you have trouble choosing, think about how much time your valve will spend closed. If you plan
to shut things off for long periods of time, choose the ball valve.

If you need tight regulation of flow, the globe valve wins the day. Some applications include
cooling systems, fuel oil or steam systems.

A ball valve works great in high-pressure systems such as fire hoses. These may stay turned off for
long periods of time. But they need to work as well every time someone opens and closes them.

Use the Best Valves

While we might think of globes and balls as similar, their respective valves are not. Their structure,
function, and applications of a globe valve vs ball valve couldn’t be more different.

It’s ok if you don’t know what kind of valve you need. Get in touch with us here and we can provide
you with the highest quality valves for your work.

The Angle Valve: Its Functions and Features

For machines to perform at optimal levels the right materials, metals, and valves are needed.

The valves we use not only protect the machine and pipes’ longevity, but also the workers who use
and supervise them on a daily basis. To protect our workers and our investments, we’ll need the
highest quality valves on the market.

We’ll also need a guarantee of the products we use and an understanding of how they make
processes run more smoothly and effectively.

The angle valve, sometimes referred to as a stop valve, is key to securing safe processes and use of
many machines.

Want to learn more about the angle valve’s functions and features? Read on to discover why angle
valves are so vital to the proper functioning of machinery.

The Angle Valve: Functions and Features

Angle valves are used in many settings from the toilet in your home to a ship on the Pacific.
They’re an essential component of many machines and allow for the safe processing of a variety of
liquids, chemicals, and gases. Explore the following functions and features of the angle valve to
learn more about its value.

Features of Angle Valves

Angle valves come in many designs and sizes. The size and design of the angle valve are
determined by the scope of the project and the size of the piping. For heavy duty processes, larger
and higher quality angle valves are essential.

All angle valves are equipped with a right angle with inlet and outlet openings. They also have a
valve mechanism which can be altered to control flow. Each angle valve is equipped to handle a
certain amount of pressure based on mechanical function and materials used.

Angle valves also have some type of seal, plug, and stem which helps to regulate flow.

Functions of Angle Valves

Angle valves regulate flow, control flow, and reduce pressure. They can also influence temperature
and regulate material levels.

The mechanisms used to achieve these functions, however, may differ. For example, angle valves
can be used as shutoff valves, needle valves, check valves, and stop-check valves.

As the flow is regulated, the angle valve reduces cavitation, vibration, corrosion, and noise. When
the valve is engaged, the fluid or gas flows at a right angle toward the direction it enters the valve.
Engaging the valve can isolate flow to provide additional control for the machinery’s overall
functioning and operation.

The Industrial Angle Valve

An angle valve is needed for nearly every mechanical operation which needs to be in control of
flow, temperature, and pressure. For industrial operations, however, an angle valve needs to be
highly reliable and dependable to ensure safe operation and successful processing.

If you’re in the petrochemical, shipbuilding, aerospace, or compressed gas industry, then you can
trust our products to deliver. At CPV Manufacturing, we are proud to offer our worldwide clientele
valves and fittings that last for thousands of life cycles. We understand that weak links in the chain
are never a risk worth taking, so we provide only the best products.

Review our catalog more information about our angle valves and other top of the line valve
products and fittings.

Here’s What to Know About Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Before You Buy

Improperly pressurized systems can result in damage. This ranges from a small water heater leak to
a full-blown disaster. To safely move liquids and vapors through different systems requires careful
calculations.

There are several different variables to consider. Some systems require a liquid, gas or two-
phase relief valves. Consider all possible over-pressurization scenarios.

Relief valves do not control or regulate the pressure in the system that they protect. They are an
important safety feature to eliminate risks to people and equipment. Correct pressure relief valve
sizing is essential.

Pressure Relief Valve Sizing Basics

Professionals spend many years learning the correct standards for system design. Engineering relief
valve size and placement are time-consuming disciplines. However, there are several computer-
aided solutions available to speed the process.

Step 1

Create your model. Pressure relief valves must operate in a variety of conditions. This includes
during a power failure.

A pressure relief valve opens at a predetermined set pressure. It allows a certain flow and then
closes when the system returns to a safe pressure level.

Determine what type of pressure relief valve you need. Do you need a single phase or multi-phase
discharge?

Some valves are suitable for a simple air and water mix. Other valves are specially engineered for
corrosive chemicals.

Step 2

Determine your parameters. Use the applicable API and ISO standards. Again, there are software
solutions to help you assign values.

Choose the material, fluid pressure, and temperature. Determine the design flow rate, set pressure
and discharge coefficient. Again, select the relevant standard for your industry and use.

If there are long distances involved, remember to consider pressure losses. Also, remember to
consider the liquid/vapor mix and viscosity.

Step 3

Perform the relief valve calculations. Compare the result with the nearest sized manufacturer
standard valves. If possible, adjust your model to your specific pipework.

Using straight API standards can result in rigid parameters. These may not adequately cover all
scenarios. This can lead to erroneous values.

A correctly sized pressure relief valve has a discharge capacity to prevent system damage. In most
cases, this is 10% above the maximum allowable working pressure.

For Safety’s Sake

An adequate safety system depends on the correct pressure relief valve sizing. Pressure relief
valves must protect your system against “worst case” conditions.

Defining the credible worst-case scenarios for over-pressurization should yield
conservative results. Evaluation of failure probability is an important part of making correct
decisions.

Book methods for pressure relief valve sizing are adequate. The results are likely to be conservative
with a margin for error. However, these book calculations are no substitute for expert analysis.

We have many years of experience with custom pressure release systems and innovative solutions.
We can offer your project a full catalog of products. Let us help you find the right
solutions. Contact us today.

How to Choose the Right High Pressure Valve for the Job

In life, you wouldn’t pick a pair of sneakers to go to a black-tie event.

The same goes for engineers; they have many options when it comes to valves. High-pressure
valves are designed to keep things running safely and smoothly, which is why there are no one-size
fits all valves.

Keep reading this article to learn how to select a high-pressure valve.

The Right Temperature

Before you choose a high-pressure valve, you need to keep in mind the temperature of the gas or
liquid flowing through it will have an effect on the valve. For example, steel valves handle higher
temperatures than iron and bronze valves.

You need to keep in mind the temperature of the substance that will be flowing through the valves
before you pick one.

The Materials

Not all valves are made the same. The type of material you choose will depend on the type of job
you need to perform.

Stainless Steel and Monel® materials, for example, can withstand corrosive materials better than
other materials. Choosing the right material will extend the life of the valve.

The Connection Size and Type

The last thing you want is to buy a valve and discover it doesn’t fit. You have to make sure the size
of the valve corresponds with the inlet or outlet (discharge) piping.

Different types of valves have specific inlets and outlet (discharge) points. If you need to determine
the type of connection size, the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors
recommends that the valve has to be as big as the inlet.

Set Pressure

As the name calls, these valves must withstand a lot of pressure in order to stay safe and get the job
done. The set pressure of a relief valve is measured according to pounds per square inch.

When you buy a valve, you have to ensure the pressure you put through the valve doesn’t exceed
the MAWP (maximum allowable working pressure).

As a rule of thumb, make sure the MAWP of the valve is 10 percent greater than the maximum
pressure you will apply to it. The relief valve needs to be able to handle the MAWP.

Back Pressure

The back pressure refers to the pressure on the outlet side of the valve directly from the discharge
system.

You need to make sure the valve doesn’t go above 10% back pressure.

Type of Service

It’s important to keep in mind before you get a valve — what type of service you will be using it
for? Substances such as air, gas, and steam, require a different type of valve.

The valve you would use for steam might not be able to transport gas.

Capacity

According to safety regulations, valves should relieve pressure at certain capacities. The capacity
codes are set as follows:

 SCFM – standard cubic feet per minute
 LBS/HR – pounds per hour
 GPM – gallons per minute

These codes will help you determine how much capacity you need.

Choosing the Right High-Pressure Valve: The Bottom Line

Before to pick the right high-pressure valve for a specific job, you need to keep in mind the
capacity, type of service, back pressure, materials, and more.

Need to know how to select the right pressure control valve? Check out this article.

A Closer Look at Different Types of Valves

When you think about it, valves are pretty interesting. They are designed to control the pressure and
flow of gas or liquid within a process or a system. Some valves are automatic (self-operated) while
others have to be opened and closed manually.

If you are in the aerospace, manufacturing, shipbuilding, oil and gas or a wide array of other
industries, chances are you know more about the different types of valves than most people.

However, for those who are interested in getting some first-hand knowledge about valves, the
information found here should be enlightening.

Shutoff Valves

As the name implies, a shutoff valve turns something on or off. They can either allow a full flow to
move through or completely stop it.

Shutoff valves are available to work on their own (automatically) or manually. These are not used
for controlling the flow of the material.

Gate Valves

This valve is usually found on wider parts of a pipe. They are often used to control the flow of
heavy viscous liquids

A gate valve can be found in several varieties, including non-rising and rising stems. There are also
gate valves that come with split wedges, flexible wedges, or solid wedges.

Control Valves

This type of valve serves as the correcting element of a control loop. The control valve is typically
operated automatically, but there are also some that can be operated by hand.

There are several different types of control valves. Some of the most common include:

 Check valves
 Needle valves
 Pinch valves
 Ball and Plug valves
 Butterfly valves

Each one has the same main function but operates slightly differently from the others.

Strainer Valves

The strainer valve works to separate solids and liquids. They allow the fluid to flow freely but keep
the solids separate.

With this protection ability in place, the valve can help to prevent blockages caused by foreign
matter. If a blockage moves into the main system, it could cause a complete failure or malfunction.

The strainer valve is also often used in air systems. In this application, it helps to get rid of any
moisture that may be present.

Vent Head Valves

A vent head valve is commonly referred to as an air pipe head or air vent valve. It works to control
the air present inside pipes that carry fluids moved by pressure from pumps.

The main function of the vent head valve is to help reduce turbulence, flow, and potential damage
from shaking pipes by giving excess air in the pipe a way to escape.

Understanding the Different Types of Valves

The fact is, valves are present in many types of everyday items. Getting to know the different types
of valves can help you better understand what they do and how they work.

Additional information about valves, how they work, and to order parts can be found by contacting us.

We provide valves for virtually every purpose, in any industry.

Naval Applications: Types of Valves Used on Ships

To keep the power of an entire Navy fleet operational, you need to ensure you use the right
equipment.

What kind of equipment does the Navy trust to keep their ships in top shape?

Here we will look at the types of valves the Navy uses and their designs.

Different Types of Valves

Valves are one of the most important pieces when dealing with any fluid. This makes them key on
a large naval ship.

A valve controls the distribution and pressure of various fluids. A large variety of machinery in
ships run with the regulating flow of liquid.

Valves come in a large variety. Their size is often dictated by the size of the system.

The designs of each type of valve center around how their mechanism works. Some popular valve
designs are the shutoff, the ball, the needle, the butterfly, and the pinch.

One popular valve used in the Navy is the gate valve.

The Gate Valve

The gate valve is a simple and effective design. It takes its name after its base mechanism.

A gate valve has a simple mechanism. As the valve turns, a device raises or lowers to control the
flow of liquid.

This simplicity is why it is a well-used design. Over-complication when creating any sort of
mechanical structure will only lead to trouble.

A Variety of Designs

Though a gate valve may be simple, it can still have variations in its design. The major design
differences sort into two types; there is the rising stem and the non-rising stem.

A rising stem design has threads on the on the stem that connects it to the yoke of the valve.

A non-rising stem has the opposite effect. It instead has threads that connect the gate to the stem.

What does this all mean? The rising stem design does as it says: the stem rises when used. Because
of this, many prefer the non-rising stem in tight environments.

The Pros and Cons of the Gate Valve

In either design, gate valves work against the flow of water. The gates will stop the flow of liquid,
which can cause stress on the rest of the system.

Keeping a close eye on the system can prevent any sort of problems from occurring. Either way, it
is still a downside to the design.

The main use of a gate valve is to allow the fluid to flow in both directions with ease. As well, due
to its downside, the gate valve has to create a low-pressure system.

Regular maintenance is key. The gland packing used to stop water leakage will need to be replaced
at regular intervals.

With simplicity and solid strength, the gate valve is a trusted structure of Navy ships.

The Parts You Need

We at CPV Manufacturing believe in quality. No matter what kind of fitting or valve you may
need, we work with you every step of the way.

Do you have a project that needs a little extra help? Not sure what types of valves you need? We
can help sort out the details. Contact us today!

The Spring Actuator Valve: How it Works

Valves of every type exist for a wide range of applications. However, sometimes these valves get
placed in locations where a man or woman would be at a higher risk of injury.

In circumstances like this, an actuator valve can do the work instead. These devices can both open
and close valves in emergency situations.

The spring return option is especially helpful in machines that have one-sided torque. Here is why
you should learn more about this specific type of valve.

The Spring Valve Process

These valve actuators are set up to where they receive energy only on one side. On the other side,
either liquid or air funnels to open and close the valve.

The spring forces the opening or closing movement based on the energy received from the other
side. This makes them especially useful in areas where torque is unevenly distributed.

They are also known as single-acting devices. This name derives from how the pressure and energy
flows.

Actuator Valve Applications

When a spring actuator valve is used, it’s because the torque is only coming in from one side.
Double acting valves work well in other situations, where strong torque affects both sides of the
valve.

If a plant uses chlorine gas or oil in their system, these valves offer a perfect solution.

Other pneumatic, hydraulic and direct gas valve actuators work better with balanced torque. Gas
over oil and electric actuators are named based on the type of pipes where they are installed.

Choosing Valves by Cost

Depending on the budget, valves will range in quality. However, if you’re unsure of what your
system needs, a consultation with an experienced professional is necessary.

They understand how to analyze your current setup and give recommendations based on
observations. Additionally, these experts help you improve overall performance by offering valve
replacement suggestions.

Prices for valves will change based on where they are being shipped from, as well as the quality of
the brand. Work with a well-known company that produces durable parts to make the best
investment capital spending decisions.

Client-Based Valve Choices

Whether you’re setting up a new system for a client and giving them a cost estimate to repair old
valves, it’s important to understand the basics. In particular, the spring actuator valve brings
strength to small spaces where human hands may not fit or work effectively.

As a contractor, you should rely on the parts you’re installing. The reputation of your work will
remain highly valued. Not only does this ensure fewer callbacks, but it helps you maintain the
ability to earn future work.

Find out what is available in the market and talk to a consultant. They can help you match the need
with the right actuator valve.

Your work gets done faster and your client will rely on the end product. Depending on how they
feel about the job, they will also be more inclined to refer clients your way.

An actuator valve is a small part that offers big relief. Meet with your consultant right away, so
current and future projects will produce the best results.

Check out CPV Actuated Valves for industrial gas processing.

A Complete Guide to Globe Valve Types and Parts

The last thing an engineer or operator wants to happen out in the field is a failing valve. By
choosing the best valve for the right system under the specified conditions, you can avoid major
issues that can cause both financial and medical emergencies.

Whether you’re new to the field or just need a refresher, today we’re talking about everything you
need to know about a globe valve.

In this article you’ll learn about what these valves are, the different types, their various parts, and
how they all work together to start, stop, and regulate fluid flow.

Grab your P&ID, we’re getting started.

What is a Globe Valve?

Globe valves are linear motion valves used to control liquid or gas through a pipe. They’re used to
start and stop the fluid flow as well as regulate it.

Globe valves are used in a variety of industries like petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, shipbuilding,
and aerospace. No matter what industry you’re in, on a P&ID you’ll see the globe valve symbol as a
colored circle with two triangles on either side.

Parts of a Globe Valve

A globe valve has several key parts:

Bonnet: The bonnet is the outer part of the valve, which encompasses these other parts.
Cage: The cage surrounds the stem within the valve.
Stem: The stem connects the disk to the valve actuator or handwheel, transmitting the force.
Disk (Plug): The part of the globe valve that moves perpendicular to the seat. It’s the moveable
physical barrier that blocks (or frees) the flow.
When closed, the disk sits against the seat, plugging the flow. When opened, the disk sits above the
seat, allowing liquid to pass.
Seat (Seat ring): This part of the valve provides the seal between the stem/disk and bonnet when
the disk is tightly pressed against it. It’s either integrated or screwed into the valve itself.

How Does It Work?

Globe valves are usually controlled by an automatic actuator that regulates the flow by moving the
disk perpendicular to the seat. Globe valves can control fluid flow either manually or automatically.
The right angles produce less leakage than you’d find in a gate valve.

When turned in a clockwise motion the disk lowers to the seat which physically obstructs the
liquid’s path, either reducing it or blocking it completely, depending on how low the disk moves.

Vice versa — when the valve moves counterclockwise, the disk raises. This increases the flow of
the liquid or allows it to flow completely.

Types of Globe Valves

There are various globe valve types and designs, each with their own pros and cons.

Globe Valve Arrangement Based on Fluid Flow

Disks that close against the direction of the fluid flow are great if you need a quick opening
valve. Disks that close with the direction of the fluid flow are a better a choice if you need a
quick closing valve.

Ball vs. Needle Disk Types

Things like the type of disk used vary based on the situation. For example, ball disks are more ideal
for low-pressure, low-temperature systems more so than a needle disk.

Z vs. Y Globe Valves

The Z type of globe valve is the most common where the disk and seat sit at 90° (perpendicular)
to the pipe axis, however, this often results in a drop in head.

To get around this high-pressure loss, engineers designed the Y type of globe valve where the stem
and seat of the valve seat at 45° to the pipe axis.

Contact Us

Whether you’re looking for a specific globe valve or O-SEAL® fittings, we can provide you with
the high-quality products and technical resources you need.

At CPV Manufacturing, we’ve got valves and fittings for every industry from oil & gas to
pharmaceuticals.

History and Uses: The Basics of the Pressure Relief Valve

Unless you have x-ray vision and a built-in pressure gauge, it’s impossible to determine when a
pipe is going to blow. A pressure relief valve is a safety device that is set to release at a
predetermined level.

These valves keep both personnel and equipment safe. No doubt, the history of this device includes
a disaster that could have been avoided. So, what can you do to protect the pipes in your system?

The Right Pressure Relief Valve

The first step is determining which type of valve is necessary. When these devices first entered the
market in the 1600s, they used a simple lever system.

Weights held the levers in place until the pipe pressure became too strong. Then, it would release
once the lever could no longer stay in place due to the growing pressure.

Unfortunately, there were problems with this design as it sometimes caused unexpected explosions
due to the valve not reacting quickly enough.

Distributors call the second type of valve a direct acting spring valve. A fan set up of leaf springs
applies force to the valve to keep it closed.

Adjustments can fine-tune the valve later, if necessary. These decisions are usually best made after
a test run or two.

Both of these designs have modified so they operate efficiently and reliably.

Pressure Limits for Valves

There is a specific code used for valves manufactured to handle more than 15 psi. This code is the
ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code.

To fall in line with these requirements, all pressure relief valves get stamped with specific
information. This information provides the rating of the valve and what pressure limits it can
handle.

Once the valve has done its job and released the excessive pressure, it closes again and keeps fluid
or other substances from flowing normally. Valves like this have a pop action that makes them
versatile for several different industrial uses, including ships and hazardous chemicals.

All of these can be set to release with either a specified temperature or pressure gauge reading.

Valve Use and System Setups

If you’re revamping a current system or setting up a new one, bring in a professional expert. Once
they have analyzed the setup, they’ll be able to determine if it’s running efficiently or if it needs an
upgrade.

The consultations they offer come with experience in similar situations. They have helped other
manufacturers choose the right sizes and types of valves.

A cost analysis helps to compare prices for new valve upgrades versus repairing the current system.
Then, the consultants can assist in determining the right direction to move.

Protect the Valve System

There is no reason to put your equipment or personnel in danger when expertise like this is
available. Choosing a pressure relief valve may not be everyone’s specialty.

The faster it’s done, the sooner your manufacturing continues being profitable. Let the experts who
are familiar with these systems and come in and share their advice.

They understand what it takes to protect the valves and ensure that the manufacturing remains
stable. Ask them for an appointment as soon as possible and get your business back on track.