Basically, the function of a butterfly valve is to control the flow of a liquid or gas through a tube or pipe. Generally, what kinds of materials include liquid, steam, gas, and air. Apart from this, some types of dry materials can also pass through these units. In this article, we are going to learn more about the different components of butterfly valves and their applications. Keep reading to know more.
The butterfly valve included a circular disc. The pivot axis of the disc is in the direction of the flowing material. The components of the valve include an actuator, a stem, a seat, and a body. Each of these components is available in different materials known as finishing characteristics. Depending on the application, you want to choose the correct valve model.
Body
The valve body is made of different metals such as stainless steel, carbon steel, aluminum, ductile iron, cast iron, and exotic metals, just to name a few. You can find these units in ear and wafer style. The latter is installed between pipe flanges. The benefit of this type of valve is that it is much easier to install and replace. But if you want to find a replacement, you need to drain the transport line.
The other type has tapped holes that allow you to screw them onto a mating flange. The valve seals the material when the valve is closed.
Seat
Another common type of these units is called the elastic seat type. The interior of the body of these units is lined with a special elastomer seat. These seats are typically made from white neoprene, white buna, carbon, natural rubber, chlorbutyl, Teflon, Viton, buna, and EPDM, just to name a few. The choice of material depends on the material, pressures and temperatures.
The seats in some inexpensive units are generally molded in and cannot be removed or repaired. Precision drives generally have removable seats that can be replaced or repaired.
Disc
The disc part regulates the flow of material in the conveying line. Apart from this, the disc materials are chosen based on the application. Common materials include ductile, nickel plated, epoxy coated, ductile iron, aluminum, and stainless steel.
Mother
The stem passes through the center of the valve, connects to the actuator and adjusts the disc for optimal material flow, and then closes. Depending on the valve size and application, the stems can be constructed from one or two pieces. Generally, the type of materials used in rod construction includes stainless steel and carbon steel.
Solenoid
Actuators are of different types, such as electro-hydraulic, electric, pneumatic, gear, and hand crank.
Applications
Butterfly valves are designed for many applications, such as liquid, steam, gas, and air. These units are used to handle materials that are displaced by the disc. You may want to be careful when using these units in an abrasive or semi-abrasive application.
In summary, this was a description of butterfly valves and their applications in different environments and systems.