Valves
Valves: the heart of control in thermohydraulic systems
Valves are essential components in thermohydraulic systems and represent the core of fluid and gas flow control in a wide range of applications. From civil to industrial installations, valves ensure the proper functioning of heating, cooling, refrigeration, and water supply systems, allowing for precise and efficient regulation, blocking, or redirection of flow.
Thanks to their ability to handle different types of fluids and operate in extreme environmental conditions, valves play a crucial role in optimizing system performance
Types of valves
Valves are available in a wide variety of types, each designed for specific applications and operating conditions. The most common include:
- Ball valves: These valves feature a perforated sphere at the center, which rotates to open or close the fluid passage. They are widely used due to their reliability, tight sealing, and ease of operation. Ball valves are ideal for applications requiring quick flow control, such as in heating and cooling systems, as well as in water and irrigation systems.
- Butterfly valves: Characterized by a rotating disc at the center of the conduit, these valves offer a compact and lightweight solution for flow control. They are used in applications where space is limited and quick operation is required, such as in ventilation and air conditioning systems. Butterfly valves are known for their efficiency in large diameters and ease of maintenance.
- Gate valves: Designed to completely isolate the flow of a fluid, these valves are often used in applications where total shutoff is necessary, such as in water supply systems and gas distribution networks. Gate valves offer excellent sealing and are suitable for high-pressure and high-temperature environments.
- Globe valves: These valves are ideal for precise flow control. Their design allows for gradual flow regulation, making them perfect for applications requiring accurate dosing, such as heating systems and refrigeration circuits. Globe valves are often used in industries where precision is crucial, such as the chemical and pharmaceutical sectors.
- Check valves: Also known as non-return valves, these allow fluid to flow in only one direction, preventing backflow. They are essential for avoiding reverse flows that could damage the system or compromise operational safety. Check valves are widely used in water systems, pumps, and gas distribution networks.
Valves: main applications
Valves are used in numerous sectors and environments, each with specific requirements that influence the choice of valve type. In the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) sector, valves are essential for controlling the flow of air and fluids, ensuring thermal comfort and energy efficiency in buildings. Here, ball and butterfly valves are commonly used due to their ability to provide fast and reliable control.
In industrial applications, valves play a crucial role in production processes, where precise control of liquids and gases is essential for product quality and operational safety. For example, in refineries and chemical plants, globe and gate valves are preferred for their resistance to extreme pressure and temperature conditions.
Another critical application of valves is in water supply and gas distribution systems, where safety and reliability are imperative. In these contexts, check valves and gate valves are widely used to prevent backflows and ensure continuous service operation.
