Non Return Valve
Mixers, metering pumps, faucets, tankers and boilers rely on the backflow prevention provided by non-return valves to prevent flooding, cross-contamination and upstream surges such as water hammers. Both the equipment and the processes themselves are protected by non return valves that are easily integrated into pre-existing pipelines. Valve operation is entirely reliant on the pressure flow of process streams and therefore requires no external activation or actuation. The cylindrical device is simply put in place and left to mediate the process flow. While several different types of non return valves, such as
ball check valves and
wafer check valves, are widely available, the overall process is similar. An oversized stopper or plug rests in the seat of the valve. The seat is a cross-sectional element that extends from the walls of the cylinder but has an opening suitable to passing the process stream. When fluid or gas flows at the optimal pressure or higher, it pushes the stopper out and away from the seat, creating a gap through which the stream may pass. When downstream pressure drops and the material begins to flow the other way, the plug is quickly pressed back into place, creating a tight seal that prevents backwash.
As non return valves are extremely versatile, they must be made compatible with a number of different process streams. Corrosive, acidic, basic, abrasive and even hazardous materials are commonly found flowing through these check valves, as are gentler materials such as water, oxygen and detergent. It is important that the material construction of the valve be compatible with the process stream. Insufficient materials can wear or erode quickly causing the mechanical failure of the valve or even contamination of the downstream liquids or gases. To accommodate their many uses, valves are made of a wide range of metals, including
brass, bronze, copper, stainless steel, iron and aluminum.
Plastic check valves, commonly made from
PVC, polypropylene, rubber and polyethylene, are also popular. In addition to material concerns, the overall size and diameter of the valve should be considered so that it fits into the piping while allowing the stream to pass as needed. Other considerations include media temperature and the valve flow coefficient. While each of these is important, the pressure rating or cracking pressure of the valve is the primary concern. This is the minimum pressure at which the valve will operate, or open. If the valve is too large or bulky, the pressure created by the process stream will not be able to open it, even if the opposing pressure is exceeded. An undersized check valve will fail to close. Both miscalculations can result in wasted material, damaged equipment and/or cross-contamination.