Check valves are one of the few valves not designed to stop or reduce flow. These valves simulate valves found in the human heart and cardiovascular system. Check valves allow flow in one direction only. They are the most basic components of back flow preventers which may be composed of numerous check valves to ensure water […]
Archives for April 2016
Gate Valves Explained
Gate valves operate just as the name indicates. A barrier blocks all flow when activated and as the “gate” is lifted, flow is restored. I tend to think about barbarians storming a medieval castle when referring to gate valves. As the barbarians are riding through the outskirts unimpeded, they reach the castle where the knights […]
Butterfly Valves Explained
Butterfly valves operate similarly to ball valves. They both open and close with a quarter-turn and are also considered shut-off valves, though butterfly valves are much better at regulating flow. This is the reason they are commonly used in engines for “throttling”. As you can see, a closed butterfly valve has a thin profile stopping […]