In the complex pipeline system of the industrial field, valves are like precision controlled "blood vessel switches", silently guarding the orderly flow of fluids. This seemingly inconspicuous mechanical device is actually a key node connecting pipelines, equipment, and processes, constructing the cornerstone of fluid control in modern industry with diverse forms and functions.
1、 Function and Classification: Unlock Multiple Control Scenarios
The core mission of valves is to achieve precise control of parameters such as on/off, flow rate, pressure, and flow direction of fluids (liquids, gases, slurries, etc.) through opening, closing, or adjusting. According to functional characteristics, its family can be subdivided into multiple branches:
Cut off type: such as gate valves and globe valves, with a decisive "one size fits all" attitude, to achieve rapid fluid flow, commonly used in pipeline scenarios that require complete isolation of the medium.
Regulating class: Ball valves and butterfly valves are like nimble "flow regulators" that finely control the flow rate of fluids by rotating the valve core angle, demonstrating their skills in chemical processes that require precise proportioning.
Safety class: Safety valves are like loyal "guardians", automatically opening to release pressure when the system pressure exceeds the critical value, building a strong safety line for equipment such as boilers and pressure vessels.
Special function category: With its unique one-way flow design, the
check valve acts like a "one-way traffic police" in the fluid world, preventing system failures caused by medium backflow; The drain valve focuses on "removing dampness and water", efficiently removing condensed water from the steam pipeline, while tightly locking the steam to ensure the efficient operation of the thermal energy system.
2、 Materials and Structure: Building the Foundation of Reliable Performance
The "steel ribs and iron bones" of the valve are forged from various materials. Cast iron has become a commonly used choice for low-pressure pipelines due to its excellent wear resistance and economy; Stainless steel, with its corrosion-resistant properties, has firmly established itself in fields such as chemical and food industries that require high purity of the medium; High temperature alloy materials, on the other hand, maintain stable and reliable working performance in extreme battlefields of high temperature and high pressure such as thermal power and metallurgy.
Although its internal structure varies by type, it contains intricate design logic. Taking gate valves as an example, the precise fit between the gate and valve seat is the key to sealing, and the unique shape of the wedge-shaped gate can automatically enhance the sealing effect under pressure; The friction coefficient between the ball of the
ball valve and the sealing ring is extremely low, making the opening and closing operation easy and smooth, while ensuring good sealing performance. These exquisite structural designs enable the valve to maintain stable sealing performance and operational feel even during long-term use.
