A beginner’s guide to industrial valves and their applications

Industrial valves are simply those used in industrial – as opposed to domestic – settings. Without industrial valves, there would be no functioning gas, water or oil distribution.

Industrial valves are usually more robust than domestic ones, as they have to deal with harsher environments and higher pressures.


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Let’s take a look at the common types of industrial valves:

Rotary motion valves

Rotary motion valves use a closure element that rotates to block the flow of liquid. The rotation is often limited to just one-quarter turn, which changes it from completely open (at 90 degrees) to completely closed (at 0 degrees). Examples of rotary motion valves include butterfly valves, plug valves, and ball valves.

These valves are used in many industries, including food and beverage, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, plastic and rubber, and pulp/paper.

Experts in industrial valves

There are a number of specialists in this sphere. Many, such as https://orseal.com/, have significant online resources.

Linear motion valves

There are two types of linear motion valves: rising stem (multi-turn), and axial:

Rising stem valves use a threaded stem to move the obstructor. This stem is rotated as needed. Examples of linear motion valves include gate valves, globe valves, diaphragm valves, needle valves, and pinch valves. These valves can be found in the automotive, food and beverage, chemical, wastewater, and oil and gas industries.

Axial valves use force to move the obstructor along a designated axis. Examples include coaxial valves and angle-seat valves. This type of valve can be found in various industries, including oil and gas production.

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Self-actuated valves

These valves use the energy, pressure or temperature from the fluid to position the valve. Examples include check valves, safety valves, and steam traps. Self-actuated valves are found in a range of industries.