Understanding check valve sizing is crucial to ensuring proper flow and optimal efficiency of your fluid, steam, or gas flow system. To get the most out of your check valve, you need to know which check valve types are suitable for the environmental factors or your application.
Check valves should be sized according to their application and flow, rather than solely based on their line size. Selecting an appropriately sized check valve ensures it operates at its peak, delivering efficient service with maximum protection. Proper check valve sizing enhances a system’s reliability, offering the longest and most trouble-free service.
Undersized Valves
To small of a valve will result in higher pressure losses, restricted flow and could generate excessive noise and vibration.
If the check valve is too small for the pipe, it's like having a tiny door for a big crowd – it creates a bottleneck. This means the fluid or gas flow will be restricted, causing pressure buildup and potentially damaging the valve or the system.
Oversized Valves
To large of a valve may cause premature wear and failure of the valve’s internal components.
If the check valve is too large for the required flow, it's like having a huge door for a small room – it's inefficient. The valve will operate in a partially open position, fluttering in the flow or chattering, both situations causing premature failures and possible equipment damage.
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Each fluid handling system comes with unique requirements. Inappropriate valve sizing can incur costs beyond the valves themselves. When a valve fails, the associated labor costs for repair can be substantial. For instance, if a maintenance team needs to be engaged, costs escalate depending on time and crew requirements.
When factoring in downtime and lost production time, these costs can become staggering, sometimes reaching thousands of dollars per hour or more.
Correct valve selection not only ensures longer valve lifespans but also extends the longevity of pumps and other related components within the same system, leading to reduced overall maintenance and costs. Well-functioning check valves also enhance the safety of their applications.
When considering maintenance, safety, and replacement costs, it becomes evident that higher-quality check valves are a more cost-effective option. Crane Engineering has top tier valve vendors like DFT and Val-Matic, engineered for durability and superior sealing.
Regardless of your size, pressure, or piping configurations, Crane Engineering has the valve that suits your needs.
Let us know how we can help you, request a quote today!