Check Valves Are Designed To Stop Backflow

Update:21-03-2019
Summary:

Check valves, or one-way valves, are designed to stop b […]

Check valves, or one-way valves, are designed to stop backflow and, ultimately, to protect pumps and compressors. They are available in several styles and sizes, from 1/8 inch to as large as may be required.

Check valves are found in many industries and with various applications ranging from municipal water to mining and natural gas. The three most common types are swing check valves, double-door check valves and silent spring-assisted axial flow check valves.

Sizing a center guided valve is not difficult. Along with the pipe size, pressure class and type of valve required (flanged, wafer, etc.), users need the actual working pressure, flow rate, media type, temperature and the specific gravity of the media. It may be as simple as building the valve with a lighter spring to allow the valve to fully open.

In order for the valve to reach the full open position, it may need a lift limiter to reduce how far the disc travels. When the valve is 100 percent open, it will be stable in the flow and will result in reduced premature wear and failure by eliminating the effects of chatter. It is very important to remember that these valves are designed to the actual flow values and not to the line size. A properly sized valve will be in either the full open or closed positions.

Benefits of using a properly sized and positioned silent check valve:

It can protect a system from costly failures and downtime of a production facility.
The valve lifespan can be greatly increased by reducing the risk of parts breaking off and damaging equipment downstream.
It protects the pumps that are upstream by not allowing backflow, which can cause the pump to spin in the reverse direction and cause severe damage.
It leads to better pump and compressor protection.
It results in less piping vibration.
There is a reduction in water hammer issues.
It will work in the vertical down flow direction.