Have you ever wondered how fluids are controlled through pressure systems and petrochemical pipelines on rigs? Well, one of the answers to this question is butterfly valves. Butterfly valves are a type of valve that can regulate the flow of fluids through a pipeline. They get their name from the butterfly-shaped disc that is used to control fluid flow. To figure out how to best use butterfly valves in your pressure systems and petrochemical pipelines on rigs, consult with an expert in the field.
Butterfly valves, available in eccentric, double offset, and triple offset styles, are commonly used in pressure systems with pipe flanges. Performance butterfly valves are designed to provide precise control over fluid flow, and their centerline figure ensures accuracy.
Compared to other types of valves like ball valves, butterfly valves are typically easier to turn. The valve seat and valve body of a butterfly valve are designed to withstand high pressure, making them ideal for use in petrochemical applications where pressure is a concern. The figure of a butterfly valve is compatible with ANSI pipe flanges, ensuring easy installation.
If you’re interested in learning more about butterfly valves for pipe flanges, keep reading! We’ll discuss what they are, how they work, their different types, and their figure, ANSI rating, and maximum PSIG.
Principle of Operation: How Butterfly Valves Work
Disc-Shaped Closure Element
Butterfly valves are named after their disc-shaped closure element that rotates around a shaft along the centerline. This closure element is usually made of metal or plastic and is mounted on a shaft that passes through the center of the valve body figure. The disc can be positioned at any angle between 0 and 90 degrees, depending on whether the valve is open or closed. These valves are designed to meet ANSI and AWWA standards.
Open and Closed Positions
When the valve is in the open position, the disc is turned parallel to the flow of fluid, allowing it to pass through. As a figure, there is minimal pressure drop across the valve, making it an ideal choice for applications where high flow rates are required. This valve conforms to ANSI and AWWA standards. For more information, please contact us.
To close the valve, the disc is rotated perpendicular to the flow of fluid, blocking it completely. In this position, there is no flow through the valve. The degree to which a butterfly valve can be closed depends on its design and size. See Figure 1 for a visual representation of how the disc rotates to control the flow of fluid.
Manual or Automatic Operation
These valves, which can be manually or automatically operated, use a disc-rotation mechanism for regulation. Manual operation involves twisting a handle or lever connected to a rotating shaft. However, this method requires physical effort and might not be suitable for larger valves or scenarios where regular adjustments are needed.
For automatic operation, an actuator is used to rotate the valve’s disc. Actuators can be electric, pneumatic, hydraulic, or mechanical, depending on the specific requirements of the application. The seat of a triple offset valve plays a significant role in ensuring its automatic operation.
Quick Disconnection Feature
One key advantage of these valves over other variations like ball or gate valves is their rapid disconnection capability. With just a quarter turn, which is about one-fourth of a rotation, the valve can be fully closed. This is quicker than the multiple turns required by some other valve types.
This makes ball valves, along with triple offset, eccentric, and double offset variations, perfect for situations where quick shut-off is necessary, such as water supply systems in firefighting powered by fire pumps.
Compact Design
Another advantage that butterfly valves offer is their compact design. They are smaller and lighter than other types of valves, which makes them much easier to install in tight spaces. In fact, their small figure allows for more flexibility in placement.
Their compact design, which is available in different styles such as eccentric butterfly valve, offset butterfly valve, and figure, means that they require less support structure. This can save on installation costs.
Types of Butterfly Valves: Wafer-Style and Lug-Style
This type of quarter-turn valve, which relies on a circular disc, is instrumental in managing fluid flow through pipelines. The compact design, economical pricing, and simple operation have contributed to its growing popularity. We’ll focus on the three primary styles, notably the wafer and lug designs, which we’ll examine in terms of features, differences, and uses. Choose the style that fits your needs perfectly.
Wafer Design
The wafer style is crafted to fit between two flanges, secured by bolts. Its slim profile allows for usage in cramped areas where other valve designs would be too bulky. Typically, the body of the valve is cast iron or stainless steel, with a disc made from various materials, such as rubber or plastic. Its compact and streamlined figure permits efficient operation in minimal space.
The advantage of the wafer design lies in its simplicity of installation since it takes less space compared to other valve designs. It also provides excellent control over fluid flow rates thanks to its streamlined design that reduces pressure drop. Its compact and lightweight figure makes it suitable for applications where space is a constraint.
In terms of cost, the wafer style is one of the most economical options available. It comes in a variety of sizes, ranging from small to large, depending on the application requirements.
Lug Butterfly Valves
Lug-style butterfly valves have threaded inserts on either side of the valve body that allow them to be bolted into a system without nuts. This figure feature makes it easier to install and remove them without disrupting other components within the pipeline system.
Lug butterfly valves come in various sizes ranging from 2 inches up to 48 inches with some designs capable of handling pressures up to 250 PSI. Like wafer style butterfly valves, they can be made from different materials such as metal or plastic, depending on the application requirements.
One significant advantage of lug butterfly valves is that they are ideal for applications where frequent maintenance is required. Due to their two-piece design, the valve body can be removed without affecting the piping system’s integrity.
AWWA C504 Standard
The American Water Works Association (AWWA) has established a standard for butterfly valves known as AWWA C504. This standard defines three classes of butterfly valves based on their design and performance characteristics:
- Class I: Valves designed for general-purpose service with low-pressure drop and moderate throttling capabilities.
- Class II: Valves designed for high-pressure service with high throttling capabilities.
- Class III: Valves designed for critical service applications such as water treatment plants.
The standard also specifies various design features such as disc type, seat materials, and testing requirements to ensure consistent performance across all classes of butterfly valves.
Applications of Butterfly Valves in Various Industries
Butterfly valves are a type of quarter-turn valve used to regulate the flow of fluids. They have a flat disc that rotates around an axis perpendicular to the flow, allowing for quick and efficient control of fluid flow. Butterfly valves are widely used in various industries such as petrochemical, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, water treatment, and HVAC.
Petrochemical Industry
In the petrochemical industry, butterfly valves are commonly used for regulating the flow of fluids in pipelines, tanks, and reactors. These valves can handle high pressure and temperature conditions and are often made from materials such as carbon steel or stainless steel. Their ability to quickly open and close makes them ideal for use in emergency shut-off systems.
Butterfly valves are also used in tank farms to control the flow of crude oil or refined products between storage tanks. These valves can be remotely operated using pneumatic or electric actuators, which allows operators to control them from a safe distance.
Food and Beverage Industry
Butterfly valves are also widely used in the food and beverage industry for controlling the flow of liquids such as juices, milk, and beer. These valves must meet strict hygiene standards since they come into contact with food products. As a result, they are often made from materials such as stainless steel or plastic that can withstand frequent cleaning.
In addition to regulating fluid flow during production processes, butterfly valves are also used for bottling lines where they ensure accurate filling levels by controlling product flows.
Pharmaceutical Industry
In the pharmaceutical industry, butterfly valves are used for handling sensitive materials that require precise control of flow and pressure. These materials include vaccines, medications, and other pharmaceutical products that must be produced under sterile conditions.
Butterfly valves provide accurate regulation of fluid flows while minimizing contamination risks since they have a simple design that is easy to clean. They are often made from materials such as stainless steel or plastic, which can withstand frequent cleaning and sterilization.
Water Treatment Industry
Butterfly valves are also used in water treatment plants to regulate the flow of water in pipelines and to control the level of water in reservoirs. These valves are often fitted with electric or pneumatic actuators that allow for remote operation.
In addition to regulating fluid flows, butterfly valves are also used in wastewater treatment facilities where they control the flow of effluent through different stages of treatment processes.
HVAC Industry
Butterfly valves are commonly used in HVAC systems for regulating the flow of air and water. These valves come in various sizes and materials, making them suitable for use in both commercial and residential applications.
In HVAC systems, butterfly valves control the amount of chilled or heated water flowing through pipes by adjusting their opening angles. This allows for precise temperature control throughout a building while minimizing energy consumption.
Benefits of Using Butterfly Valves
Cost-Effective and Low Maintenance
Butterfly valves are an excellent choice for those who want a cost-effective and low-maintenance option. Compared to other valve types, butterfly valves require less maintenance, which saves both time and money. This is because they have fewer moving parts that can wear out or break down over time. Butterfly valves do not require lubrication, which further reduces maintenance needs.
Compact Design for Tight Spaces
The compact design of butterfly valves makes them easy to install in tight spaces where other valve types might not fit. Their simple construction means that they take up less space than other valves, making them ideal for use in confined areas. This feature also makes them easier to handle during installation and maintenance.
High Flow Rates with Low Pressure Drop
Butterfly valves offer high flow rates due to their low pressure drop. This means that they allow fluid to pass through quickly without causing significant resistance or pressure loss. As a result, butterfly valves are an excellent choice for large-scale applications where high flow rates are required.
Precise Throttling Control
One of the most significant benefits of using butterfly valves is their ability to provide precise throttling control. This allows users to regulate fluid flow with accuracy and consistency, making them ideal for applications where precise control is required. Butterfly valves can be adjusted incrementally, allowing users to fine-tune the flow rate as needed.
Versatility Across Industries
Butterfly valves are versatile and can be used in a variety of industries, including chemical processing, pharmaceuticals, food processing, water treatment plants, and more. They are suitable for many different types of fluids such as liquids, gases or steam at various temperatures and pressures.
Manual vs Actuated Butterfly Valves: Which One is Right for You?
What are manual and actuated butterfly valves?
Butterfly valves are used to regulate the flow of fluids in a pipeline. They consist of a circular disc that rotates around an axis perpendicular to the flow of fluid. The valve can be opened or closed by rotating the disc, which allows or restricts the flow.
Manual butterfly valves are operated by hand, while actuated butterfly valves are operated by an external power source such as an electric motor, pneumatic cylinder or hydraulic actuator.
Pros and Cons of Manual Butterfly Valves
Manual butterfly valves are less expensive than their actuated counterparts and simpler to install. They also offer flexibility since they can be easily adjusted on-site if necessary. However, this type of valve requires more maintenance since it has many moving parts that need regular attention.
One disadvantage of manual butterfly valves is that they may not provide precise control over fluid flow due to their reliance on human operation. This could result in fluctuations in pressure or temperature within the pipeline which could lead to damage or inefficiencies.
Pros and Cons of Actuated Butterfly Valves
Actuated butterfly valves offer greater precision and control over fluid flow compared to manual ones because they use external power sources like electric motors, pneumatic cylinders, or hydraulic actuators for operation. This means that they can be programmed to open and close at specific times or based on certain conditions.
Another advantage of actuated butterfly valves is that they require less maintenance than manual ones since there are fewer moving parts involved in their operation. However, these types of valves are more expensive than manual ones due to the additional equipment required for installation.
Choosing Between Manual and Actuated Butterfly Valves
The decision between manual and actuated butterfly valves depends on several factors including budget, maintenance capabilities, desired level of automation, and application requirements.
For applications where precision control over fluid flow is critical, actuated butterfly valves are the best choice. For example, in industries such as food and beverage processing or pharmaceutical manufacturing where strict regulations govern fluid flow, actuated butterfly valves are essential.
On the other hand, for applications where precision control is not as important and budget is a concern, manual butterfly valves may be sufficient. These types of valves are commonly used in irrigation systems or wastewater treatment plants.
ISO Standards for Actuated Butterfly Valves: Ensuring Quality and Performance
Actuated butterfly valves are commonly used in industrial applications to regulate the flow of fluids. These valves are designed to be reliable, efficient, and long-lasting. However, not all butterfly valves are created equal. The quality and performance of these valves can vary depending on several factors, including the materials used, pressure rating, and manufacturing standards.
ISO standards play a crucial role in ensuring the quality and performance of actuated butterfly valves. These standards provide a set of guidelines that manufacturers must follow to ensure their products meet industry requirements. Here are some key talking points about how ISO standards help ensure the quality and performance of actuated butterfly valves:
Pressure Rating is an Important Factor in Determining Suitability
One important factor that determines the suitability of a butterfly valve for a particular application is its pressure rating. The pressure rating indicates the maximum pressure that the valve can withstand without leaking or failing. This rating is typically measured in pounds per square inch gauge (psig).
ANSI ratings provide a standardized system for measuring the pressure capacity of butterfly valves in psig. ANSI B16.34 provides guidelines for determining standard class ratings for steel gate, globe, check, and ball valves; however, it does not cover butterfly valve ratings.
Butterfly valve manufacturers often use their own proprietary methods to determine pressure ratings based on factors such as temperature range, flow rate, and fluid type. It’s essential to choose a valve with an appropriate pressure rating for your specific application to avoid potential safety hazards or costly downtime due to failure.
Stainless Steel is Popular Material Choice for Butterfly Valves
Stainless steel is one of the most popular material choices for actuated butterfly valves due to its excellent corrosion resistance properties and durability even under extreme conditions.
ISO 11270 outlines requirements for metallic butterfly valves suitable for general-purpose industrial applications with temperatures ranging from -20°C up to +500°C. The standard specifies the material requirements for metallic butterfly valves, including stainless steel.
Stainless steel butterfly valves are ideal for applications that involve corrosive fluids or high-temperature environments. They are also resistant to wear and tear, which makes them a popular choice in industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and food and beverage.
Performance Testing is Necessary to Ensure Industry Standards
Performance testing is necessary to ensure that actuated butterfly valves meet industry standards for reliability and functionality. ISO 5208 outlines procedures for pressure testing of metallic valves, including butterfly valves.
The standard provides guidelines for testing the valve’s ability to withstand pressure without leaking or failing. It also covers other aspects of valve performance, such as torque requirements, seat leakage rates, and valve closure time.
Manufacturers must conduct rigorous testing on their products to ensure they meet these standards before releasing them into the market. This helps ensure that end-users can trust the quality and performance of the actuated butterfly valves they purchase.
Iron and Centerline Butterfly Valves Offer Different Pressure Ratings
Iron and centerline butterfly valves are alternative options available in addition to stainless steel ones. These types of valves offer different pressure ratings and material compositions suitable for specific industrial applications.
ISO 16136 outlines requirements for iron-bodied butterfly valves suitable for general-purpose industrial applications with temperatures ranging from -10°C up to +200°C. The standard specifies the material requirements for iron-bodied butterfly valves using cast iron grades FG 200 or FG 260.
Centerline butterfly valves have a unique design that centers the disc in the pipe bore when fully open or closed. This design allows for better flow control than offset designs while maintaining low operating torque values. ISO 5752 outlines face-to-face dimensions of centerline resilient-seated metal-seated eccentrically rotary plug valve bodies (including centerline butterfly).
Choosing an appropriate type of actuated butterfly valve depends on your application requirements, including the fluid type and pressure rating needed.
Choosing the Right Butterfly Valve for Your Needs
Consider the Type of Service the Butterfly Valve Will Be Used For
One of the most important factors to consider is the type of service it will be used for. Will it be used for water, gas, or high-pressure drop applications? Each application requires a different type of valve that can handle specific conditions.
For water applications, resilient seated butterfly valves are often used due to their ability to provide tight shut off and low torque operation. On the other hand, metal seat butterfly valves are better suited for gas applications as they can withstand higher temperatures and pressures.
High-pressure drop applications require a butterfly valve with a high Cv value. This ensures that there is minimal pressure drop across the valve and prevents damage. It’s essential to choose a valve that can handle your specific application to prevent costly repairs and replacements down the line.
Choose a Butterfly Valve with Appropriate Body and Pipe Flanges
Another important factor in selecting the right butterfly valve is ensuring it has appropriate body and pipe flanges. The body material should be compatible with your process fluid while also being able to withstand any corrosive or abrasive materials present.
Pipe flange selection should also be considered based on your specific pipe system requirements. ANSI B16.5 is commonly used in North America, while EN 1092-1 is more commonly used in Europe. It’s crucial to select a butterfly valve with matching flange dimensions to ensure proper installation and function.
Determine if Resilient Seated or Metal Seat Contact Is Needed
The choice between resilient seated or metal seat contact depends on several factors such as end service requirements and cost considerations. Resilient seated butterfly valves are typically less expensive than metal-seated options but may not be suitable for higher temperature or abrasive media services. Metal seat contacts provide tighter shutoff capabilities but come at an increased cost compared to resilient seated options.
Ensure the Butterfly Valve Has Suitable Pressure Drop Rating
It’s essential to select a butterfly valve with a suitable pressure drop rating for your application. This ensures that the valve can handle the required flow rate and prevents damage from excessive pressure drops. Understanding your system’s specific requirements and selecting a valve with an appropriate Cv value is crucial.
Contact Us for Assistance in Selecting the Right Butterfly Valve
Selecting the right butterfly valve for your needs can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help. Our team of experts can assist you in choosing the best option based on your specific application requirements. Contact us today to learn more about our selection of butterfly valves and how we can help you choose the right one for your needs.
See Also: Rotary Valve and Wafer-Style Butterfly Valve
Quarter Turn Valves
Butterfly valves, rotary valves, and wafer-style butterfly valves are all quarter turn valves that are commonly used in industrial applications. A quarter turn valve is a type of valve that uses a 90-degree turn of the stem to open or close the valve. This makes them ideal for applications where quick shut-off is required.
Rotary Valves with Ball Control
Rotary valves are similar to butterfly valves in that they also use a quarter turn motion to control the flow of fluids or gases. However, instead of a disc, rotary valves use a ball to control the flow. The ball rotates within the valve body, allowing fluid or gas to pass through when it aligns with the openings in the valve body. When closed, the ball blocks off the openings, preventing any flow.
Rotary valves are often used in applications where precise control over flow is required. They can be used for both on/off and throttling applications and are often used in high-pressure and high-temperature applications.
Wafer-Style Butterfly Valves with Pockets
Wafer-style butterfly valves are another type of quarter turn valve that is commonly used in industrial applications. Unlike other types of butterfly valves, wafer-style butterfly valves have pockets that allow them to fit between flanges. This makes them a popular choice for applications where space is limited.
The pockets on wafer-style butterfly valves allow them to be mounted directly between two flanges without requiring additional hardware. This not only saves space but also reduces installation time and costs.
Stems for Precise Control
Both rotary valves and wafer-style butterfly valves have stems that connect the valve disc (or ball) to the actuator. The actuator is responsible for opening and closing the valve by rotating the stem 90 degrees.
The stem allows for precise control over fluid or gas flow. By rotating the stem, the valve disc (or ball) is moved out of or into the flow path. This allows for precise control over the amount of fluid or gas that passes through the valve.
Parts of a Butterfly Valve: Understanding the Inner Workings
Butterfly valves are quarter-turn valves that use a circular disc to control the flow of fluids. They are commonly used in applications where space is limited, as they are compact and lightweight. The inner workings of butterfly valves make them ideal for regulating the flow of fluids in large pipelines, as they can be easily automated and controlled remotely.
The Parts of a Butterfly Valve
A butterfly valve consists of several parts that work together to regulate fluid flow. These parts include:
- Body – The body is the outer casing of the valve and contains the internal components.
- Disc – The disc is a circular plate that rotates on an axis to open or close the valve.
- Stem – The stem connects to the eccentric butterfly valve disc and allows it to rotate within the body.
- Seat – The seat is a ring-shaped component that creates a seal around the disc when closed.
- Actuator – The actuator controls the movement of the disc by converting energy from an external source into mechanical motion.
- Bearings – Bearings support and guide the rotating shaft.
Flow Direction in Butterfly Valves
One common question about butterfly valves is whether they have a flow direction. While some types of valves require specific orientation to work correctly, butterfly valves do not have any particular flow direction.
The design of butterfly valves allows them to operate effectively regardless of which way they are installed in piping systems. This makes them highly versatile and suitable for use in many different types of applications.
Simple and Reliable Flow Control Solutions with Manual Butterfly Valves
What are Manual Butterfly Valves?
Manual butterfly valves are a type of quarter-turn valve that is used for regulating flow in piping systems. These valves consist of a circular disc, which is mounted on a shaft, and when the valve handle is turned, the disc rotates to either allow or restrict fluid flow. The simplicity of their design makes them easy to use and reliable.
Advantages of Using Manual Butterfly Valves
Suitable for Pressure Systems
Manual butterfly valves are designed to withstand high pressure and maintain flow control in piping systems. This makes them an ideal choice for use in pressure systems where precise flow control is necessary.
Ideal for Dead End Service Applications
Dead end service applications require complete shut-off of fluid flow. Manual butterfly valves provide this feature, making them an ideal choice for these types of applications.
Cost-Effective Solution
Compared to other types of valves, manual butterfly valves are relatively inexpensive. Their ease of use and durability make them a cost-effective solution for many different types of flow control needs.
Where Are Manual Butterfly Valves Commonly Used?
Manual butterfly valves are commonly used in various industrial settings such as rigs, refineries, chemical plants, and water treatment facilities. They can be used in both liquid and gas applications because they can handle high-pressure environments while maintaining accurate flow control.
In the oil industry specifically, manual butterfly valves are often used in drilling rigs where they help regulate mud flows that lubricate drill bits during drilling operations. In addition to regulating mud flows, these valves also help prevent loss of circulation by sealing off any leaks or fractures that may occur during drilling operations.
In water treatment facilities, manual butterfly valves are utilized to regulate the amount of water flowing through pipes at any given time. They can also be found in swimming pool plumbing systems where they help regulate water levels and ensure proper filtration.
The Importance of Understanding and Utilizing Butterfly Valves
Butterfly valves are essential components in various industries, providing simple and reliable flow control solutions. They work by using a disc that rotates to regulate the flow of fluid or gas.
Principle of Operation: How Butterfly Valves Work
Butterfly valves operate on the principle of rotational motion. By turning a handle or actuator, the disc inside the valve rotates at a right angle to the flow, allowing for precise control over the fluid or gas passing through it.
Different Types of Butterfly Valves and Their Features (Wafer-Style, Lug-Style)
There are two main types of butterfly valves: wafer-style and lug-style. Wafer-style butterfly valves are lightweight, compact and easy to install between flanges. Lug-style butterfly valves have threaded inserts on both sides that allow for easy installation without needing additional hardware.
Applications of Butterfly Valves in Various Industries
Butterfly valves have numerous applications across various industries such as chemical processing, food and beverage production, water treatment plants, pharmaceuticals manufacturing, oil refineries, HVAC systems among others.
Benefits of Using Butterfly Valves
One significant advantage of utilizing butterfly valves is their cost-effectiveness compared to other types of industrial valves. They also provide accurate flow regulation with minimal pressure drop while maintaining high durability levels.
Manual vs Actuated Butterfly Valves: Which One is Right for You?
The choice between manual or actuated butterfly valve depends on your specific needs. Manual butterfly valves require human intervention while actuated ones use an electric or pneumatic actuator to regulate flow automatically.
ISO Standards for Actuated Butterfly Valves: Ensuring Quality and Performance
ISO standards ensure quality performance from actuated butterfly valves by ensuring they meet specific criteria such as torque output requirements and operating speed range.
Choosing the Right Butterfly Valve for Your Needs
Choosing the right butterfly valve depends on several factors, including fluid or gas type, temperature, pressure, and application requirements. Consulting with a trusted supplier can help you make an informed decision.
See Also: Rotary Valve and Wafer-Style Butterfly Valve
Rotary valves and wafer-style butterfly valves are two alternatives to consider when looking for flow control solutions. Rotary valves use a rotating motion to regulate flow while wafer-style butterfly valves are compact and easy to install.
Understanding the Inner Workings of Butterfly Valves
Understanding how butterfly valves work is crucial in selecting the right valve for your needs. Knowing their principle of operation, types, applications, benefits can help you make an informed purchase decision.
Simple and Reliable Flow Control Solutions with Manual Butterfly Valves
Manual butterfly valves provide simple yet reliable flow control solutions that do not require complex automation systems. They are cost-effective and easy to operate while still providing high accuracy levels.
FAQs
What makes butterfly valves different from other industrial valves?
Butterfly valves differ from other industrial valves due to their compact design and cost-effectiveness compared to other types of industrial valves such as ball or gate valves.
Can butterfly valves handle abrasive materials?
Yes, some types of butterfly valves can handle abrasive materials such as those made with hard rubber or ceramic coatings on the disc surface.
How do I know which type of butterfly valve is suitable for my application?
The choice between wafer-style or lug-style butterfly valve depends on your specific application requirements such as pressure rating, end connections needed among others.
Are actuated butterfly valves more expensive than manual ones?
Yes, actuated butterfly valves tend to be more expensive than manual ones due to their additional automation components such as electric or pneumatic actuators.
Is it necessary to follow ISO standards when purchasing actuated butterfly valves?
Following ISO standards ensures that you get high-quality actuated butterfly valves that meet specific criteria such as torque output requirements and operating speed range, ensuring optimal performance.
Ready to optimize your fluid flow control? Contact us today to explore our range of butterfly valves and connect with industry experts. Don’t wait, enhance your pressure systems now