Learning About a Valve and Its Basic Parts

Pipelines need valves or fittings to control the flow of fluid and to prevent spills or breakage due to pressure. Fluids such as gases, liquids and slurries flow through the pipe at varying velocities depending on the size of the pipe. Small-diameter pipes create a stronger pressure that pushes the fluids at a higher velocity. This speed can cause fractures along the pipe if not controlled. This is the reason why valves are important.

The valve is a device designed to control fluid flow through a channel. It is used in myriads of applications that involve fluids such as oil and gas distribution, power generation, water reticulation and mining. In fact, it is found in some equipment at home like gas tanks and faucets. Small fittings are also used in washing machines, dish washers and hot water systems.

Valves can be operated in various mechanisms. Most valves consist of handles operated manually, while others work by handle, lever or pedal. Special valves used to control toxic fluids operate automatically through changes in pressure or temperature. In more complicated systems of fluid flow, the valves used are coupled with an actuator, a device that transforms an energy source to a motion that turns the valve.

A standard design valve normally consists of a body, bonnet, ports, and handle or actuator. The body refers to the part that contains the internal components or trim. The term may also pertain to the valve, itself, with all its essential parts. Some valves have special body parts not found in a traditional design. Solenoid valve, for example, has a solenoid that creates an electromagnetic field used to operate the valve. A good example of it is Spence D Pilot.

The bonnet of a valve is the metal covering the body. It is usually designed and not patterned after the cylindricality of the pipe, but with the needed mechanism to regulate the fluid flow. During manufacturing, all components of the valve, including those placed in the body are set in place before the bonnet is screwed or bolted. Solenoid valve like the Spence D Pilot also has a bonnet to serve as support to the body or protection from external damage.

Ports pertain to the passages that allow the fluid to be transmitted through the pipes where the valve is attached. The handle or actuator serves as the control that opens or closes the ports for passage. Companies that manufacture valves such as the Spence produce valves have easy-operated handles.