A butterfly valve is a rotating motion valve with a quarter-turn rotation that is used to stop, control, and start flow. A metallic disc rotates one-quarter turn at each interval around a fixed-stem shaft in the design. The 90-degree twists allow for rapid transitions between open and closed positions. Furthermore, to provide full-color capabilities, the disc is normally scaled proportionally to the internal diameter of the neighboring pipe.
Just like all the other valves, butterfly valves come in every shape and size, and each of them fits a different application. In this article, we will be discussing the various advantages and disadvantages of butterfly valves.
Advantages
Lightweight and compact
Butterfly valves do not take up much space due to their compact and lightweight design. It provides great control over the water flow while taking up little room.
A metal-seated valve is better for more intense fluid processing, whereas a soft-seated butterfly valve is ideal for low-pressure and temperature applications.
Coast effective
Butterfly valves tend to be much less costly as compared to other valves of the same size. Moreover, their design makes them eligible for easy maintenance, further increasing the shelf life of the product.
Highly flow control
Depending upon the pressure of the fluid, the type of butterfly valve to be used will vary but one thing to remain constant is the efficiency of the valves. The 90-degree turning radius enables rapid sealing upon actuation, allowing for more precise flow control with minimum effort to turn the valve on and off.
Easy to use
Despite its complex design, the butterfly valve is very easy to use. They do not require a lot of torque to function properly and can be mechanized for energy-efficient operation. Overall, butterfly valves are easy to install and even easier to operate.
Pressure control
Butterfly valves provide excellent pressure control. They have a low-pressure drop during operation and the fluids recover their energy rapidly after leaving the valve. Hence, the pump system functions efficiently, and the fluid pressures remain steady over time.
Disadvantages
Choked flow
Due to the structure of the valve and the restrictive opening of the disc, there is a high possibility for the accommodation of debris leading to a choked flow. This also makes regular maintenance necessary for the valve to function properly. If a full port is required, a ball valve may be a preferable option.
No- high-pressure throttling
The opening restriction of the butterfly valve between 30-80 degrees makes it perfect for low-pressure application but the same restriction makes it a bad choice when it comes to high-pressure application. If you are working with high-pressure fluids, ball valves might be a better option for you.
Not ideal for viscous fluids
During operation, viscous and corrosive fluids tend to wash against the discs of butterfly valves, resulting in rapid disc deterioration and loss of sealing pressure. This results in a decrease in the shelf life of the product, so if you are working with viscous fluid, the butterfly valve might not be the ideal option for you.
Conclusion
Butterfly valves offer several advantages if used for the correct application. If you wish to find out more about the butterfly valves, contact Obaid Masood. We have been a leading provider of plumbing products for over a decade, and our professionals would be delighted to assist you.