Plugs Valves Suppliers UK
Plug valves are a type of valve used to control the flow of a liquid or gas. They operate by rotating a cylindrical or conically-tapered plug within the valve body, which can be opened or closed to allow or block flow. Here are some key features and uses of plug valves:
Plug valves come in several types, each designed for specific applications and operational needs. Here are the main types of plug valves:
Lubricated Plug Valves:
- Description: These valves use a lubricant (usually grease) between the plug and the body to reduce friction and seal the valve. The lubricant also helps protect the valve from corrosion and wear.
- Applications: They are suitable for high-pressure, high-temperature applications and can handle various fluids, including gases and liquids. Commonly used in the oil and gas industry.
Non-Lubricated Plug Valves:
- Description: These valves do not require lubrication. Instead, they have a sleeve or liner (often made of PTFE or another polymer) that reduces friction and provides a seal.
- Applications: Ideal for applications where contamination from lubricants is a concern, such as in food processing, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries.
Eccentric Plug Valves:
- Description: These valves feature a plug that is offset from the centerline of the flow path. This design allows for better flow control and a tight seal with less torque.
- Applications: Often used in wastewater treatment, slurry handling, and other applications where tight shutoff and throttling are needed.
Expanding Plug Valves:
- Description: These valves have a unique design where the plug expands to create a seal. This expansion helps achieve a bubble-tight shutoff.
- Applications: Suitable for handling hydrocarbons, chemicals, and other fluids that require a tight seal to prevent leakage.
Multi-Port Plug Valves:
- Description: These valves have multiple ports and can be designed in various configurations (e.g., 3-way, 4-way). They allow for flow diversion, mixing, or isolation of different process streams.
- Applications: Used in systems that require the redirection of flow or mixing of different fluids, such as in chemical processing and industrial automation.
Sleeved Plug Valves:
- Description: Similar to non-lubricated plug valves, these valves have a non-metallic sleeve (usually PTFE) that reduces friction and provides a seal.
- Applications: Used in industries where chemical resistance is crucial, such as in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and food industries.
Lined Plug Valves:
- Description: These valves have a lining made of corrosion-resistant material, such as PTFE or PFA. The lining protects the valve body from corrosive fluids.
- Applications: Ideal for handling corrosive or abrasive media in industries like chemical processing and water treatment.