A number of components contribute to the efficient operation of the oil and gas industry. Valve is one crucial component that contributes to the smooth operation of the equipment used.
Thousands of tons of fluid are transported through a secure and safe pipeline system. However, the flow is controlled by a mechanism. To control the flow precisely, valves are used.
By opening, closing, or partially blocking the flow of a fluid, a valve regulates, controls, or directs the flow of a fluid. A valve supplier in Jordan regulates the flow and pressure of fluid within a system.
Mechanical engineers are required to study this topic in their oil and gas courses.
Valve categories used in the Oil and gas industry
Valve selection is generally based on the requirements. Different types of valves chosen for the same function will also cost differently. Choosing the right valve is therefore not only a matter of operation but also of economics. Online oil and gas training courses will give you more insight into the same.
The different types of valves used in the piping industry include:
- Gate Valve
- Globe Valve
- Check Valve
- Plug valve
- Ball Valve
- Butterfly Valve
- Needle Valve
- Pinch Valve
- Pressure Relief Valve
Gate valve
In any piping industry, gate valves are the most commonly used type of valve. Only linear motion can be done with these valves, such as starting or stopping fluid flow. During operation, these valves are either fully open or fully closed. A gate valve is used in the flow system that transports air, fuel gas, feedwater, steam, etc.
Globe valve
Generally, a globe valve is used to stop, start, and regulate fluid flow. Globe Valves are used in systems where flow control and leak detection are critical. They are more expensive than gate valves.
Check Valve
Through an automatic mechanism, the check valve prevents backflow in the piping system. Check valves work on the principle that when fluid passes through a pipeline, the pressure opens the valve, while any reverse flow will close it.
Plug Valve
Plug valves control flow by using tapered or cylindrical plugs. Rotation of the valve is restricted to a quarter-turn. It is best to use plug valves when tight shutoff is essential, and these valves are reliable under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions.
Ball Valve
Ball valves have quick-acting 90-degree turn handles for easy flow control. They are one of the best options since they are faster and easier to operate than gate valves.
Butterfly valve
Butterfly valves operate by rotating a quarter turn in order to shut off, regulate, and start the flow. Large valve applications are best suited to Butterfly Valve because it is lightweight and takes up less space than other valves.
Needle valve
The needle valve and globe valve are similar in design. The slight difference is the sharp needle-like disk that is absent from globe valves. When precision flow control is required in small diameter piping systems, these valves are used.
Pinch Valve
A pinch valve is also known as a clamp valve. The pinch valve is ideally suited for handling slurries, liquids with large amounts of suspended solids. A pinch mechanism is used to control the flow.
Pressure Relief Valve
To protect the piping system, these valves are spring-automated. By using this valve, overpressure can be returned to the desired level.