Hydraulic valves control liquid or gas flow in pipes and are made of metal or thermoplastic. Plumbers use different techniques to join pipes and valves, and local building codes govern their size and materials. Gate and globe valves are common types, and some valves have additional devices for special functions.
A hydraulic valve is a device used to control the flow of liquid or gas through a hydraulic pipe. Some of these valves may be hidden from view, while others are located in easily accessible areas. Every type of plumbing valve features some form of control system, which allows a plumber or repairman to operate the valve and control the contents of the hose. Plumbing valves play an important role in the day-to-day safety and operation of basic water and sewer systems, as well as emergency repairs or modifications.
Depending on the application, a hydraulic valve can be made of metal or thermoplastic. Common materials for these valves include PVC, steel or copper. The plumber must choose the size of each valve to fit adjacent pipes, and some valves require special connectors that allow them to fit larger or smaller diameter pipes. The size, features, and materials of a hydraulic valve are typically governed by local building codes in most areas.
Plumbers join pipes and valves together using a variety of different techniques. Many of these plumbing supplies feature threaded ends that allow them to be screwed together to form a tight bond. Some valves subjected to high pressure or force may be designed with flanges on the ends which allow the user to add screws or bolts for a more secure connection. Others may require welding to ensure a watertight seal.
The gate or stop valve is one of the most common types of hydraulic valves. It consists of a thin metal flap about the same diameter as the tube. Using a wheel located on the outside of the tube, users can rotate the flap to cover the entire inside of the tube to block the flow of water. By turning the control wheel in the opposite direction, users can open the flap and allow water or gas to flow freely.
Globe or ball valves are also commonly used in basic plumbing systems. These units include a handle or similar operating device on the outside of the tube. When the handle is turned, it forces a metal ball into place inside the pipe to block or unblock the flow of water or gas. This type of device is often referred to as a quarter-turn hydraulic valve.
Many valves contain additional devices that perform special functions to control and regulate the flow. For example, a check valve not only controls the amount of liquid flowing through a pipe, but also keeps the liquid flowing in only one direction. This type of valve is commonly used in sewage systems to prevent raw wastewater from re-entering a building. Other specialty valves include devices to reduce pressure in pipes carrying steam or volatile materials.
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