By Sohel Shaikh – Digital Marketing Executive
What is a Control Valve?
A control valve is used to control the flow of the fluid. It works on the principle of varying the flow passage size as per the direction received from the controller signal. Valves are majorly used in the process plants. They are known to play a huge role in reducing the financial cost. However, it also increases the process plant’s profitability and, at the same time, being energy conservative.
Understanding the Control Valve
The entire system has a control loop. This loop consists of a controller, sensing element, and a final control element. Thus, an effective control valve should accurately respond to any signals across its operating range, respond with accurate speed, and have a wide range of flows.
The Advantages:
Control valves are cost-effective and has a multi-way design flexibility to reduce the number of valves required. It should be lightweight, durable, and give rapid and effective functioning. Moreover, it is compact to facilitate minimum space usage.
Parameters to Select a Proper Control Valve
1. Design Parameters and Flow Coefficient
One shall study the detailed account of the fluid and system properties. The identification process is an important step before the selection of an appropriate control valve for the project. So, one must understand the relationship between the valve and its requirements. As the valve is power-operated, constant monitoring of its power loss is necessary. The engineer must be alert and responsive to the valve’s reaction.
2. Noise
Extra noise earns a negative point for the valve. Control valves may produce noise depending on the cavitation, aerodynamic effects, and mechanical vibrations. The noise generated is generally below 100dB. However, aerodynamic effects leading to noise can cross 100dB. Thus one should keep in mind the noise restrictions, and the information on our website will help in a better understanding.
3. Flow characteristic Selection
Flow characteristic has an impact on the selection. This gets divided in equal percentages with a quick opening. When the constant flow is needed, a quick opening is required for frequent on-off service. An equal percentage is required in cases where the pressure drop across the valve is expected to remain constant.
4. Materials of construction
Materials are an important factor, along with preferences and costs. Using nickel or cobalt-chromium alloys can help in reducing erosion. Valves also require insulation, so that they can withstand high pressure in certain cases.
5. Maintenance
Maintenance is an important point, as its cost can add to the project budget. A poorly suited valve may require more maintenance than the perfect match.
While considering a control valve for a project, one should consider several parameters. The Dead time lag, gain, and time constant in the control valve form the base to determine the control valve. Moreover, these factors help to differentiate and check the worth of the valve. It is always better to make an informed choice and thus head into our website for help.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sohel Shaikh loves to write about control valves & Control Valve Manufacturers in India. He has been in the industry for five years and he has contributed to many guides & articles about the valve industry. Control Valve Manufacturers in India