What’s a Solenoid Valve?

A solenoid control valve directs the flow of gas or liquid and can be activated electronically. It uses an electromagnet to push or pull a mechanical valve or flexible diaphragm. Valves can be designed to fully open or gradually regulate flow, and can have spring returns or be manually or automatically controlled. Solenoid valves are […]

Swing Check Valve: What is it?

A swing check valve is a flow control instrument that prevents liquids or solids from entering another area of the unit. It can be activated manually or mechanically and can work with springs to allow unrestricted flow. Different types are used to equalize pressure and are made of plastic, rubber, steel, or other metals. Examples […]

What’s an NH3 valve?

Ammonia valves are necessary for systems transporting ammonia due to its corrosive nature. They use corrosion-resistant materials and have safety features such as relief valves. Proper maintenance and training are important for safe operation. An ammonia valve is a valve available for use in applications where ammonia will be present. A special valve is required […]

What’s a safety valve?

Relief valves automatically release material to regulate temperature and pressure in systems with extreme conditions. They are common in devices using heated liquid and are connected to diagnostic systems for safety. Blow-off plugs serve as backup safety valves. A relief valve is used to automatically release material in order to change the internal temperature or […]

What’s a gate valve actuator?

Gate valve actuators are mechanical devices used to remotely open and close gate valves, driven by electric motors. These actuators are commonly used in unattended or remote installations. Gate valves are fluid control mechanisms that use a flat, round disc or gate to obstruct or open the fluid flow path. Motorized gate actuators consist of […]

What’s a piston valve?

Piston valves come in two types: intake and exhaust. Both are actuated by the camshaft and affect power generation potential. Valve timing and design are important factors in the power equation, especially for the exhaust valve, which must expel all exhaust gases for maximum power. A piston valve comes in two types. There is an […]

What’s a reed valve?

Reed valves allow fluids to flow in one direction and have been used throughout history in water pumps, musical instruments, and forging bellows. They are commonly used in two-stroke gasoline engines to regulate the entry of fuel and air into the crankcase. They are generally made of durable, high-tech materials and are simpler in design […]

Butterfly valve actuator: what is it?

A butterfly valve actuator is a device used to remotely open and close butterfly valves, which only require a quarter turn. They are typically electric or hydraulic and have limit switches to control the range of motion and overtorque protection. Butterfly valves are commonly used in industrial and domestic installations and can be manually operated […]

What’s a Pneumatic Control Valve?

Pneumatic control valves use compressed gas to prevent dangerous situations in various devices. They are commonly found in industrial machinery and are monitored by sensors or external systems. Older systems used a test module to monitor for problems. Most use compressed atmospheric air, as other gases pose risks of asphyxiation or explosion. A pneumatic control […]

What’s a needle valve?

Needle valves have a small opening and plunger to control the flow of liquids or gases with precision. They are used in utility meters, engines, and water heaters, but lack a visual indicator of open/closed position. Needle valves are designs of valves constructed with a small opening accompanied by a plunger that looks a lot […]

What’s a needle valve?

Needle valves have a small opening with a plunger and screw that regulate the flow of liquids or gases with precision. They are used in utility meters, plants, engines, and water heaters. However, they lack a visual indicator of their position. Needle valves are designs of valves constructed with a small opening accompanied by a […]

What’s the valve seat?

Valve seats in internal combustion engines are made of special alloys like Stellite or tungsten-vanadium composite to provide maximum flow and sealing of intake and exhaust gases. Unleaded fuel can damage valve seats, but special alloys resist these forces. Hot and cold interference fit systems are used to install valve seats. The valve seat is […]

Valve oil: what is it?

Valve oil lubricates machines to reduce friction and prevent corrosion. It is used on gears, rotors, pistons, and valves, and can be mineral-based or synthetic. Viscosity and density levels specify the oil for a particular part of the machine. Synthetic valve oils are best for manufacturing equipment, while mineral-based oils are recommended for multiple machines […]

Best pressure relief valve selection?

Choosing the right pressure relief valve involves considering size, type, purpose, and materials. It’s important to understand the different types of valves and to check local regulations before making a purchase. Contacting valve companies can help find the correct valve for the job. There are a number of considerations when choosing the best pressure relief […]

Valve actuators: what are they?

Valve actuators adjust valves using an external power source. Types include electric, pneumatic, electro-hydraulic, hydraulic, and manual. They are used in industrial and home applications. Fail-safe methods are incorporated for hazardous environments. Valve actuators are devices that attach to valves. The actuators, driven by an external power source, adjust the valves to the desired position. […]

Fuel pump valve: what is it?

Fuel pump valves control the amount of fuel an engine receives for efficient operation. They allow for the right mix of oxygen and gasoline and are typically one-way valves. Modern valves are electronically powered and work with an exhaust valve to release exhaust after fuel is burned. Fuel pump valves are crucial for personal automobiles […]

What’s a valve guide?

Valve guides protect and align valves in combustion engines, regulating temperature and preventing oil leaks. They are designed to outlast valves and require proper lubrication and oil changes. Worn guides can cause engine problems, and repair options include pressing out old guides and installing new ones or knurling. A valve guide is a small tube, […]

What’s a high pressure solenoid valve?

High pressure solenoid valves are designed for aggressive, high pressure environments such as medical facilities and laboratories. They have a linear lift piston valve and use solenoid actuation. The valve chamber, seat, and piston are made of sturdier materials to withstand extreme pressures, temperatures, and corrosive substances. The internal mechanism is significantly different from low-pressure […]

What’s a high pressure solenoid valve?

High pressure solenoid valves are designed for aggressive, high pressure environments such as medical facilities and laboratories. They use solenoid actuation and have sturdier parts made of materials suited to extreme pressures and temperatures. The valves operate electromagnetically and have closer tolerances and thicker materials than low-pressure counterparts. Valve housing is made from materials that […]

Skip to content