Butterfly valves are quarter-turn valves. It controls flow mechanisms. It is comprised of a rotatable metallic disc about a stationary stem axis. Quick-action flow control valves are characterized by their ability to facilitate. Rotations of up to 90 degrees enable closure direction from fully opened.
The valve is closed when the disc is positioned perpendicular to the pipe’s centerline. The valve will be open to facilitate optimal fluid flow with the disc aligned parallel to the pipe’s centerline. The internal diameter of the flow control mechanism (disc) is that of the adjacent conduit. Learn more about the uses of butterfly valves in this article.
Table of Contents
What Are Butterfly Valves Used For?
1. Isolation of Flow
Butterfly valves can be isolated due to their lightweight construction. It has simple manipulation and a quarter-turn mechanism. Yet, before employing a butterfly valve as an isolation valve. It is critical to ascertain whether it would impair the system’s performance.
In pumping systems, for instance, a constant discharge of fluid towards the impeller is desired. This is to prevent cavitation and system losses. To accomplish this, the formation of vortices must be eliminated or reduced. When the valve restricts the flow, vortex formation may occur. It can occur in butterfly valves if the water passage from the disc is interrupted.
Therefore, this kind of valve requires special attention as an isolation valve. Calculations must incorporate system losses to ensure optimal system performance.
2. Flow Regulation of Fluids
The regulation of fluids is a common function of butterfly valves. The actuator, which interacts with the stem and disc assembly of the regulating valve, accomplishes this. Precisely proportional to the degree of angular opening, fluid flows through the valve. Therefore, the system’s discharge rate is regulated using the actuators.
Actuators can be set up manually or automatically. A regulating valve must be equipped with a flow controller for remote control. Based on the system flow rate, this controller sends valve mechanism information to start or stop operation.
Automatic actuators use an electrical motor, hydraulic piston, or pneumatic system. A gear system may include a handwheel affixed above the valve to connect the gear and the spindle.
3. For Constant Load Applications
Although butterfly valves can manage substantial volumes of fluids, they are susceptible to variations in system burden. Small load fluctuations are beyond the capability of this sort of valve. An opening of a few millimeters can result in a significant volume difference.
In the case of larger applications requiring precise pressure regulation, designs may be improved to expand the range of control.
4. As Throttling valves
Butterfly valves are employed to control substantial fluid fluxes. These are viscous slurries. They are not suitable for precise modulation.
However, recent advancements have empowered manufacturers of butterfly valves to provide valves with precise throttling capabilities.
High-performance butterfly valves are an excellent way to go for slowing. Their construction adheres to a more stringent industry standard. It is designed for demanding high-pressure and temperature applications. This valve category is produced to handle substantial capacities and various media. These media are saline and viscous lubricants.
5. Backflow Prevention
Butterfly valves can be used to stop leaks during strong wash-down steps needed for some food-making processes. Backflow prevention is essential in food processing facilities. It must maintain impeccable hygiene and cleanliness.
6. For Gases and Liquids
Butterfly valves can generally manage gases, liquids, and even slurries. However, they are not designed to accommodate substantial particles. This is due to the abrasive nature of dried bulk substances, which can erode the butterfly valve’s material (and seal). Additionally, butterfly valves exhibit inefficiency in transporting substances. The disc causes the potential obstruction.
7. For Applications Restrictive to Space
Butterfly valves are space-efficient and cost-effective, one of their finest qualities. Butterfly valves are more advantageous than ball valves for systems with limited capacity.
Establishing an efficient pipe system in facilities with limited space is challenging. Valves, filters, and other equipment can occupy enormous areas. Butterfly valves are the only form of shut-off valve. It does not require broader openings. It fits into narrow spaces, in contrast to other types of valves that are bulkier.
What are the Main Applications of Butterfly Valves?
Due to their remarkable flexibility, butterfly valves are utilized in a multitude of industries:
- They assist with controlling water circulation and treatment agents during filtration. In addition, they regulate water flow in water distribution networks and irrigation systems.
- Additionally, they control the flow of materials in pipelines. Petrochemical facilities and oil refineries use them. It helps the manufacturing and refining of a wide range of petroleum products.
- Butterfly valves are utilized to maintain precise control over chemical processes. Food processing and pharmaceutical manufacturing are two additional sectors where they are widespread.
- They regulate ventilation within ducts in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems.
