What Type of Check Valve Should You Choose?

When it comes to a Check Valve, you have a lot of options. There are Ball check valves, Spring-loaded check valves, Lift check valves, and Non-return valves. Each has its pros and cons. If you're not sure which type to choose, you can check out our eBook on the subject.

A spring-loaded ball check valve controls the directional flow of high-pressure fluid through a pipeline. When a fluid enters the valve, the pressure from the fluid pushes the ball against a spring to open the valve. The ball then blocks the flow of the opposite-flowing fluid. A free-moving ball in a check valve relies on the flow of the material to activate the device. When a low-pressure fluid flows forward, the ball moves upward and blocks the flow of the opposite-direction material.

Ball check valves are widely used for controlling flow in small-capacity systems. They are less expensive to purchase and repair than other types of valves. They are also often installed in smaller-diameter piping systems. They are also commonly used in pump systems, where they maintain line pressure during pump inactivity.

A typical ball check valve has a round ball that sits in a two-piece valve body. The inner wall of the valve body is conical, which allows for precise seating. The ball may be made of metal or synthetic ruby. Some ball check valves are permanent, while others are removable. The latter allows for easy replacement of the ball and its components in-line.

Spring-loaded check valves are a common type of check valve. These valves are designed to close automatically when the flow is stopped. These valves have several benefits. One of the biggest is that they can be used anywhere and do not require a special vertical orientation. They also have an internal spring to improve their sealing and immediate closing properties. The internal spring also eliminates the influence of gravity on the operation of the valve.

A spring-loaded check valve works by measuring the pressure difference in the two sides of the valve. A high suction pressure will open the valve, while a low outlet pressure will prevent the valve from closing. The spring will then help the closing component return to its seating position. Different manufacturers produce different types of spring-loaded check valves.

Another common problem with spring-loaded check valves is that they can't allow fluid to flow in both directions. To ensure that your valve remains in working order, follow the manufacturer's installation instructions carefully. You should also know that there are some valves that can't be inspected while they're in operation. Some of these valves may need to be replaced.

A lift check valve is a type of check valve that uses a guide rod to change direction when the flow is zero. When the flow is negative, the disc moves vertically upward to allow flow, and if the flow is positive, the disc moves downward to close. The disc also has a dashpot to cushion the movement. Lift check valves can be installed horizontally or vertically on piping.