Pressure Control Valve: All About The Check Valve
How does a check valve work?
A check valve is a type of pressure control valve that allows only a single direction for the flow of fluids. There are only two ports: an inlet port and an output port. Since the media is only allowed to flow in one direction, check valves’ main purpose is to prevent backflow in the system.
One, two, three, four, Pressure!
A check valve heavily relies on pressure to work (hence called, pressure control valve). Naturally, higher pressure on the input side of the valve is needed than on the output side to open the valve. When the pressure shifts to the output side, the valve automatically closes. Unlike other valves, they don’t need manual handles, levers, or actuators to work correctly.
Importance of check valve application
Check valves are usually used in applications wherein backflow might cause an issue. Since they are “non-return” valves, they are an easy, effective, and cheap solution to solve an obvious potential problem. Backflow can cause a lot of damage if it is contaminated, thus, contaminating the media upstream. For instance, a check valve ensures that waste from a sewer line can leave, but not re-enter the system. They are also used to ensure that backflow will not damage equipment upstream.
The check valves’ cracking pressure
A check valve requires a minimum upstream differential pressure between inlet and outlet to open the valve and allow through flow. This required minimum upstream pressure is called the check valve ‘cracking pressure.’ Specifics of the cracking pressure may change based on the valve design and size.
Check valve closing action
If the upstream pressure falls below the cracking pressure, or there is a danger of backpressure/backflow, the check valve automatically closes. The closing mechanism will depend on the valve’s design, such as a gate, ball, diaphragm, or disc against the orifice. Since the main purpose of the closing action is to seal completely, it can be assisted by gravity or a spring.
Get quality valves from MasterMac 2000 P/L
When Univer first came out in 1980, its original valves, sub-bases, spool systems, and cylinders have proven to be of the highest quality in the international and Australian markets. They can be used for all industrial applications, including heavy applications. For quality pressure control valve and check valve systems, get in touch with MasterMac2000 today on 07 3344 4711 or visit https://mastermac2000.com.au/.
About MasterMac2000: Your Trusted Pneumatic & Process Automation Partner.
LEADING THE INDUSTRY: Established in 1989, MasterMac2000 has grown to become one of Australia's largest privately owned pneumatic and process automation companies. We stock top-quality brands like Univer, Mack, Tolomatic, Mac, Piab, American, and Rotoflux in Brisbane.
SERVING QLD & NORTHERN NSW: We proudly service Queensland and Northern New South Wales for all your pneumatic and process equipment needs. Our mission is to provide the best pre and post-sales support while actively expanding our client base.
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About The Author
Stuart Havill
Stuart Havill is the owner and manager of MasterMac2000, Queensland's largest privately owned pneumatic and process valve company.
With his early working career as a maintenance fitter for Boral in 1992, Stuart has spent his life in the field of pneumatics and process equipment. He gained extensive experience in plant design, maintenance, repairs, fabrication, and site management.
In 1996, he transitioned to a pneumatic sales technician role at MasterMac2000, where he excelled in key account management, providing cost-effective solutions, and managing a sales team of 9 employees.
Since 2002, Stuart has been the manager at MasterMac2000, overseeing the company's growth and establishing it as a leader in pneumatic automation and process valve engineering. His expertise spans customer training, CRM setup, industrial compressor sizing and installation, and turn-key project management.
Under Stuart's leadership, MasterMac2000 has been servicing the industry since 1988, with 5 full-time sales representatives covering northern rivers NSW, Queensland, Northern Territory, and PNG. The company prides itself on providing the best-priced solutions to all customers in the marketplace.
View Stuart’s LinkedIn profile to learn more about his expertise in pneumatics and process equipment.