What’s a valve lifter?

Different types of valve lifters are used in engines, including hydraulic and solid lifters. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, with roller lifters offering increased power and fuel economy potential but at a higher cost. Roller lifters also require stronger valve springs to keep them positioned on the camshaft lobes at high RPM. […]

What’s a block valve?

A block valve can prevent or allow movement without restriction. Gate valves are a common type of block valve that can be operated manually or with an automated system. The valve must have no effect on flow when open and totally block flow when closed. This definition excludes globe valves and check valves. Different industries […]

What’s a butterfly valve?

A butterfly valve is a quarter-turn valve with a metal disc that rotates to block or allow passage. Different types are suitable for different pressures and uses, including in a car’s carburetor. The valve can also be partially open to control air intake. A butterfly valve belongs to a family of valves called quarter-turn valves. […]

What’s a slide valve?

Slide valves controlled steam flow in steam engines, allowing steam to enter and exhaust to exit. They were replaced by piston valves due to their need for more power and lubrication. Modern machines use more efficient valves, such as poppet valves in cars and throttle valves in certain tools. Slide valves were commonly used in […]

What’s a valve assembly?

A valve assembly includes all parts related to valve installation and operation, including the fluid control mechanism, casing, actuation mechanisms, connectors, sensors, and fasteners. It is used to stop, start, or throttle fluid or gas flow. Ancillary features may be included. The assembly may also include external controllers, fasteners, adapters, and replacement parts. A valve […]

What’s a Flange Valve?

Flanged valves use a raised surface mated to a groove for added strength in heavy-duty pipelines. Flange types include tongue and groove, raised face, ring-type joint, flat face, and tongue-and-groove groove. Different flange designs are not interchangeable, and mixing them can cause valve failure and dangerous leaks. A flanged valve is a special type of […]

What’s a post indicator valve?

A post indicator valve (PIV) is used to control the water supply to fire protection systems in large buildings. There are three types: ground, pedestal, and wall, each suitable for different installations. The valve actuator and status indicator are placed on a prominent post for easy access. A post indicator valve (PIV) is a valve […]

What’s a compressor bypass valve?

A compressor bypass valve relieves pressure from the intake system on engines, found in turbocharged and supercharged automobile engines, aircraft engines, and some train engine designs. It helps route pressure generated within the engine to the non-pressurized end of the intake system and prevents compressor surges. The valve’s primary function is to allow pressure to […]

What’s an Irrigation Valve Solenoid?

Irrigation systems use solenoids to manage water flow to underground sprinklers. They come in different sizes and materials, and are connected to electronic timers. Troubleshooting and installation require basic skills and tools. Irrigation systems are underground sprinklers made with many types of irrigation parts and underground pipes. An irrigation valve solenoid is a small mechanical […]

What’s a Dump Valve?

Dump valves release excess liquid or gas from a container. Exhaust valves consist of a cylindrical body and stem, blocking the flow of liquid or gas. Drain valves range from simple screw caps to complex, electrically controlled models. Relief valves are used to remove harmful condensates and contaminants from air compressors and water heaters. A […]

What’s a pinch valve?

Pinch valves use a flexible sleeve to constrict or close the flow path, making them effective for controlling fluids with high concentrations of suspended solids. They can be operated mechanically or with compressed air and are suitable for flow control applications due to their wide operating ranges. A pinch valve is a fluid control device […]

What’s a throttle valve?

Choke valves restrict airflow to create a better fuel-air mixture in engines. Modern vehicles use fuel injection systems, but some still use choke valves. Manual or automatic control is possible, and newer engines use superchargers or turbochargers to create pressure. Choke valves were commonly used in automobile engines until the late 1980s. Choke valves help […]

What’s a Flanged Butterfly Valve?

A flanged butterfly valve regulates fluid flow in a piping system. It has a cylindrical housing with a metal disc that opens and closes by rotating on a metal rod. The valve can be manually or mechanically operated and has a flange for installation with various connection hardware. A flanged butterfly valve is usually cylindrical […]

Flanged Butterfly Valve: What is it?

A flanged butterfly valve regulates fluid flow in a closed system. It has a cylindrical housing with a metal disc that opens and closes the valve. The valve is anchored by a flange that can connect to other sections of pipe with bolts, latches, screws, or clamps. A flanged butterfly valve is usually cylindrical in […]

Gas solenoid valve: what is it?

Gas solenoid valves use electrical impulses to control the flow of gas through a line or chamber. They can have one or multiple inlet/outlet ports and come in direct acting or pilot operated configurations. They are used in commercial and residential applications, such as pneumatic machinery, manufacturing plants, furnaces, and gas-operated dryers. A gas solenoid […]

What’s a non-return valve?

A backwater valve prevents wastewater from flowing back into a property. It is optional in many locations but may be required for new construction. There are three types of valves available, with combined valves being the most expensive but least prone to malfunctions. Proper installation and maintenance are necessary for optimal performance. A backwater valve […]

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