Check valves, also known as one-way or non-return valves, are unlike any other type of valve. They are one of the few self-automated valves that do not require any assistance to open or close - they are able to pass fluid in solely one direction on their own.
How It Works
Check valves are flow sensitive and operate on a two-port system. There is an opening where fluids are drawn into the first port, where it is then controlled by a device that separates the two ports. The device allows water to be drawn from the first to the second port and then finally out an opening without allowing fluids to enter back into the first port (hence its name “non-return” valve).
Types
There are many types of check valves that are in use today. Some of the more popular types include:
- Swing check valve
- Split disk check valve
- Ball check valve
- Wafer check valve
- & more!
While no one type of valve is good for all applications, each have their own advantages. To know which is best for you, our team at JETT Pump will be able to assist in the selection of the best valve depending on your needs and type of business.
Selection
Our experts at JETT Pump will be able to consider many factors when helping you select a check valve, including: valve rating (ANSI), installation (horizontal, vertical flow up or down), material compatibility with the medium, envelope dimensions, leakage requirements, oxygen cleaning, the list goes on. It can get complicated when selecting the right valve, which is why you should leave it to the experts!
Your Ideal Check Valve
Regardless of the type of valve you select, you have to keep in mind that check valve internals are flow sensitive. If there is not enough flow present, disc movement occurs inside the valve (reminder: the disk is always moving in the flow path). When the disk begins to move, it can result in wear, a higher pressure drop than calculated, and worst case scenario – failure. Think of it like your bedroom door. You close it at night when you sleep, and in the morning, you open it – very similar to what happens when a pump is cycled on and off. However, imagine someone is standing at your door and keeps opening and closing it over and over and over again. What could happen?
Your hinge might fall off, pins might become loose, or your door handles become weak.
Check valves face the same situation. Anything in a valve from the pins to springs that are in constant cycle can fail. This is why its important to properly select check valves for their possible applications and get expert advice! Did you know that a check valve with a high Cv in a low flow application is setting yourself up for failure? Probably not, which is why we’re here.
At JETT Pump, we are experts in all things valves – we’d be happy to help! Our goal is to keep your fluid handling systems running at peak performance.
For more information, contact us at 248-648-3048 today! We're the leading pump repair and valve specialists in the Detroit Metro area and we'd be happy to help!