Valve Information Center

Ball Valve Assembly And Disassembly 3D Presentation

2010-02-08T05:14:00.000-08:00

Netservices India developed technical 3D presentation for Ball Valve Assembly and disassembly.

What is a ball valve?

2010-02-08T05:09:00.000-08:00

Do you know what is a ball valve?

A ball valve is basically a valve with a spherical disc (like a ball/hemisphere), the part of the valve which controls the flow through it. The sphere has a hole, or port, through the middle so that when the port is in line with both ends of the valve, flow will occur. When the valve is closed, the hole is perpendicular to the ends of the valve, and flow is blocked. The handle or lever will be inline with the port position letting you "see" the valve's position. The ball valve, along with the butterfly valve and plug valve, are part of the family of quarter turn valves.

Ball valves are tough, durable and work to achieve perfect shutoff. It is not designed to be gradually open and allowing the flow. It works only to open or off the flow. Hence, it is an excellent choice for shutoff applications. Other valves such as butterfly, globe or gate valve is not suitable for those type of processes. As mentioned earlier, ball valve do not offer the fine control that may be necessary in throttling applications but are sometimes used for this purpose (not advisable).

Ball valves are used extensively in industry because they are very versatile, supporting high pressures, even up to 700 bars and high temperatures up to 200°C. Sizes typically range from 0.5 cm to 30 cm. Ball valve are easy to maintain as it comes with several types of option such as single piece, double or tripple piece. A three piece body and two piece body ball valve is easier to maintain as it can be dismantled for cleaning and servicing.

The body of a ball valve can be made of metal, plastic or metal with a ceramic center. The ball is often chrome plated to make it more durable. The bigger the ball valve, the more expansive it is.

Ball Valve History & Mystery

2009-06-24T06:39:00.000-07:00

Here is a light hearted history and trivia on the ball valve. Read it and you will never take your natural gas or electricity for granted again, ok so maybe you will…

Ball Valve mystery?

The humble ball valve has a checkered history and somewhat murky origins. It may not be cloak and dagger stuff, but it’s not without mystery… Take a look around to see where the ball valve is indispensable. For example, the ball valve is crucial to the petroleum industry, water, electric power, chemical, paper, pharmaceuticals, food, steel and other fields. If it seems we could not get a long without the ball valve, it's probably true! Given the importance of the ball valve today, it's a mystery why it took so long to invent.

Ball Valve history does not go back to ancient Greece or the American revolution or does it? The modern ball vale was invented in 1967 or about 1957 according to different sources. Who cares when the ball valve was invented? Besides the patented owner, probably not many people. Still the ball valve was major advancement over plug valves used in the 20th century. The earliest ball valves were commercially available around 1967. For ancient parallels, the ruins of Pompeii turned up a bronze tapered plug quarter turn valve that resembles to the ball valve today. How’s that for a ball valve mystery?

Ball Valve Birth Pains

Ball Valve researchers point to a spherical ball-type valve patented in 1871 led to the invention of today's ball valve. This ball valve was an all brass valve- brass ball and brass seats. Apparently this ball valve didn't storm the market and was not mentioned in valve catalogs of the late 1800's While today's ball valve is quite a recent invention, the idea for this ball valve has been around about 125 years. The first resilient seated ball valve patent was issued in April,1945. Legend has it the company’s marketing department could not envision a use for the valve and it was not manufactured. Oh well, that’s the way the ball valve bounces...Given the huge reliance on the ball valve today, it's a mystery why it took so long for people to invent and use the ball valve.

Ham-Let is a leading ball valve producer in quality, variety and ball valve development. For more info on Hamlet’s ball valve line of products, please contact Ham-Let.

Learn about heat exchanger tubing here.

An Introduction To Valves

2009-04-27T05:46:00.000-07:00

In this modern society, valves are considered very useful components in different processes of manufacturing and systems of supply. If you look around you, values are part of every household. They are responsible for controlling the flow of all types of liquid, as well as the rate, pressure, volume and the direction. Not only that, valves control the direction of different gases, slurries and other dry materials through a pipe or any other type of passageway. Without these valves, there will be no automatic heat, public utilities or fresh water, and there will be no energy of any kind.

There are several types of valves, including EGR valves, solenoid valves and ball valves. These valves can be turned on or off, and can be regulated. They are very effective at modulating or isolating fluids.

EGR valves or exhaust gas recirculation valves serve as the intake and exhaust valves in automobiles that open at the appropriate time in order to let in a mixture of fuel and air and to let out exhaust. Car emissions are one of the leading causes of air pollution, and so automotive engineers use these EGR valves in order to reduce emissions.

Solenoid valves, on the other hand, are electromagnetic device that are usually found in automotive starter systems, industrial air hammers and electric bell assemblies. These are also used on several other machines that require power in order to make a specific part move.

Meanwhile, ball valves are valves that integrate a mounted or floating ball design that can be used for control and shut-off purposes. These valves are used on many applications such as allied process industries, chemical processing industries and corrosive and cryogenic services.

Even though these valves are used in different applications, they only have one purpose and that is to become invaluable components in this modern day society.

Valves provides detailed information on Valves, EGR Valves, Solenoid Valves, Ball Valves and more. Valves is affiliated with Copper Sinks.

What You Should Know About Hunter PGV Series Valves

2009-04-03T08:49:00.000-07:00

Hunter PGV series valves are a complete lineup of professional-caliber valves known for their durability and optimum level of performance. What makes these valves so popular among agricultural and industrial clients? First, they are made with a Hunter-brand solenoid, which allows for long lasting durability even after extended use. The high PVC construction of these units makes it capable of standing over 150 psi pressure. The internal/external manual bleed feature ensures that the valve box is left dry, while the rigid diaphragm support ensures double protection even in tough conditions. Hunter PGV series valves have captive bonnet bolts, which together with the solenoid plunger, protect against the loss of parts. Additionally, Hunter PGV series valves offer maximum control to users by way of flow control, globe and angle configurations and Accu-Set pressure regulator compatibility.

However, there is another Hunter PGV series of valves that offers even more advantages to residential clients. The Jar Top Hunter PGV series of valves allows service to a Hunter valve but without requiring any special tools to gain access to the internal structure. This makes product maintenance much easier, but at the same time, does not sacrifice any quality or performance for easy accessibility. Like the original Hunter PGV series of valves the Jar Top Hunter series features valves are made of extra-durable PVC material, which is known to be resistant against corrosion and UV-rays. It is also constructed with a rugged double-beaded diaphragm with support; this allows the unit to be leak-proof and prevent any unforeseen stress failure. Lastly, the Jar Top Hunter PGV series valves are made with encapsulated solenoid that ensures dependability over a long period of times, even when tested day-by-day.

The Hunter PGV series is one of Hunter's best series and a very popular selection with both commercial and residential clients. Hunter is one of the most trusted companies in landscaping and has been since their beginning in 1981. They achieved monumental success with their sprayers early on, but have come to innovate more products in the planting and irrigation market, such as the Hunter PGV series original and Jar Top versions.

Richard Gilliland is VP of GreenMarkIrrigation.com the largest wholesale dealer and distributor for Hunter PGV Valves and sprinklers

Don't Use A Needle Valve To Control Your Air Cylinder Speed!

2009-03-25T07:23:00.001-07:00

Many industrial machines using compressed air as an energy source, use air cylinders or other pneumatic actuators to do the actual work.

Compressed air is 'explosive' as it moves from high pressure to low pressure on it's way back to atmosphere. That means when the air valve shifts and air flows to the cylinder, the cylinder piston and rod moves extremely quickly. A high speed cylinder rod may not be best for your application, and you will want to reduce the speed and the impact.

One easy method of controlling the speed of an air cylinder is installing flow controls in the air lines between the valve to the air cylinder, in the cylinder ports themselves, or even in the exhaust ports of the air valve, though the latter is least desirable.

In the 'valve exhaust' type flow control the controls themselves may be far enough away from the cylinder that the piston and rod may have traveled the full stroke before the exhaust flow control can start back-pressuring the line to slow the cylinder. Cylinder control reaction time is always negatively affected depending on the distance from the cylinder to the flow control.

Some folks opt for needle valves to throttle the flow of air into and out of the air cylinder, thereby reducing it's speed. The problem with using a needle valve to control the speed of an air cylinder is that it throttles the compressed air flow equally in both directions.

If you are using a larger cylinder, by throttling the air into the cylinder, you are actually preventing the smooth cylinder stroke desired. As air pressure builds in the cylinder it will reach the point where it overcomes the friction of the piston and rod seals and the piston will start to move. As it moves, it increases the volume of the air space inside the cylinder behind itself. The piston moves toward one end of the cylinder creating a larger area behind than in front of it. This is an area into which air has to flow quickly to ensure that the piston keeps moving. If the air inrush cannot keep up with the increasing cavity size there will be insufficient pressure to keep the piston moving, and it will stop. So too will your piston rod, and whatever tooling you have installed on the end of it.

The rule of thumb for using a flow control to reduce and smooth air cylinder piston travel is to only throttle the exhaust air from the cylinder. The air flowing into the cylinder port should never be reduced.

How is this accomplished?

Use a "cylinder flow control". This is a device that may not look any different from the needle valve. Inside, however, there is a "needle bypass" which allows the air to bypass the needle which is throttling the air achieving full flow of air unidirectionally.

The "free flow" of compressed air through the cylinder flow control allows the unit, when it's installed in the correct orientation, to provide full and un-throttled inrush of air to the cylinder, yet, when the valve has shifted and the double-acting air cylinder has reversed, the air that is now flowing out of the cylinder is throttled to the level necessary to achieve the cylinder speed desired.

There will be a second cylinder flow control on the other line too, and this works exactly the same way.

As a result, air flow into the cylinder ports at either end of the cylinder is totally unencumbered providing high-force piston movement. The piston is trying to go fast and at full power, but since the exhaust flow of air is impeded by the cylinder flow control, the piston moves with full power, but at a controlled and desired rate.

Most cylinder flow controls will have a schematic on the side showing the flow paths to ensure that they are installed correctly.

Some cylinder flow controls are equipped with sealant coated male threads for screwing into the cylinder port, and with an "instant" type fitting into which the cylinder air line can be quickly fitted, features that save time and money.

Bill Wade's experience in compressed air and other industries spans decades; from field sales positions through to the corporate presidential office. His sales agency represents a select group of industrial firms. Mr. Wade writes about all facets of compressed air at http://www.about-air-compressors.com

The Butterfly Valve in the Industrial World

2009-01-06T05:59:00.000-08:00

In its simplest terms, a valve is an apparatus that establishes the flow of any particular substance, from gases, fluidized solids, any kind of liquids, to slurries. Normally, this device regulates the flow of such substances by opening, closing, or fractionally obstructing different passageways. This kind of apparatus is used in a number of applications, including military, residential, transportation, commercial, and of course, industrial applications. These valves are used in two ways; either driven by pressure, such as for safety reasons in steam engines, or used in a controlled manner, like when driven by a camshaft, where valves play a major role in engine cycle control.

When it comes to valves, there are a lot of types that can be used in different ways. One particular type of valve would be the butterfly valve. This valve is specifically used in large pipes, and is described as a disk rotating on a diametrical axis inside a pipe, also used as a throttle valve or a damper. The butterfly valve is a sort of device that controls the flow, normally used to administer a certain fluid that would flow through a certain section of a pipe. This valve is similar (with regards to operation) to a ball valve. The butterfly valve, having a flat circular plate, is positioned in the center of the pipe, and the plate has a rod through it that is attached to a handle on the outside of the valve. This valve works by rotating the handle, and turning the plate over either in a parallel position, or perpendicular to the flow. Not like the ball valve, the plate in the butterfly valve is always there within the flow; therefore a kind of pressure drop is always induced in the flow, despite the position of the valve.

Butterfly valves have three different types. The high performance butterfly valve, which is generally double eccentric in design, is working the pressure for up to 725 PSI. The second type would be the resilient butterfly valve, which has a flexible rubber seat. This type would work the pressure for up to 232 PSI. And finally, the last type would be the tricentric butterfly valve, which is normally designed with metal seating. This valve works the pressure for up to 1450 PSI.

There are also several kinds of butterfly valves available in the market. Wafer style valves would be the most common, since people who get to order such would not even say the word "wafer", but still get the butterfly valve that they want. This kind is under plastic butterfly valves, which is available in two styles, the wafer and the lug. On the other hand, lug style valves have metal inserts that are established in the bolt holes of the valve. These inserts are threaded on both ends, and this alone allows them to be positioned into a specific system with the use of two bolts and no nuts. Also called a butterfly damper, this valve simply controls the flow by use of a disk through a specific port.

Corazon Padol is the webmaster of MEA Incorporated. MEA Inc is a world leading organization that is composed of designers, engineers and manufacturers of valves and actuator including hydraulic actuator, gate valve, hydraulic pump, hydraulic cylinder and etc. For more information visit http://www.meaincorporated.com/.

Ball Valves

2008-12-05T05:32:00.000-08:00

Are you working on a chemical or pharmaceutical process industry? Or do you have experience working in textile manufacturing? If you do, perhaps you know ball valves are parts of quarter turn valves or rotary valves. By turning a handle that is attached to a ball that is inside the valve, the valves open. They then move in response to fluid or mechanical pressure.

Inside the valve, there is a ball that has a port, which is actually a hole at the middle. When this hole is aligned with both valve ends, liquid can flow easily through it. After the valve has been closed, the hole becomes perpendicular to the valve ends impeding the flow of liquid.

Lots of different industries make use of ball valves in order to control fluid. Some of these industries are oil and gas manufacturers, chemical and petrochemical manufacturers, paper manufacturers, the textile manufacturing, power plants, steel manufacturers, pharmaceuticals processing and water and sewage plants.

There are two types of ball valves: the full port and the standard port. A full port ball valve makes use of an oversize ball in order to allow unrestricted flow. The size of the ball and the pipeline are identical, so this has a lower loss of friction. A standard port, on the other hand, has a slightly controlled flow and makes use of a smaller ball. This ball is smaller than the pipeline, and it also has a smaller port. The valve’s pipe is one pipe size bigger than the standard port in which the liquid flows.

The use of the different types of ball valves gives numerous advantages to many industries in the world today. Without these ball valves, controlling fluid will certainly be a big concern of these manufacturing and processing companies.

Valves provides detailed information on Valves, EGR Valves, Solenoid Valves, Ball Valves and more. Valves is affiliated with Copper Sinks.

Valve is King

2008-11-04T04:15:00.000-08:00

This article was adopted from ControlGlobal.com.

Predictive Maintenance Keeps Valves Humming

Without valves there would be no way to control either the flow or temperature of the fluid in a piping system. When treated like the essential devices that they are, valves will provide a higher level of system performance for a longer amount of time.

When specifying a valve for your application, Rick Plummer of Spirax Sarco recommends asking several questions. Can the valve:

Be maintained and restored to duty quickly?
Be maintained without removal from the pipeline?
Can components be replaced without special tools?
Is the valve simple to maintain?
Does it offer long service intervals?
Does the design allow for harsh conditions?
Does the valve use trim materials to reduce erosion?
Is it easy to adjust the valve to meet new demands?
Does the valve offer smooth and accurate control?
Does the vendor give high-quality technical support?
Can the valve vendor deliver the valve quickly?

Once valves and actuators are installed, maintenance plays a critical role in keeping them up and running. The introduction of control systems using open communications standards has made this function easier. If smart positioners are incorporated into a network, web-based browsing technology can monitor the valves, collect performance trends, tabulate data, and post it to a web page where engineers can evaluate emerging problems and plan for cost-effective maintenance. Predictive maintenance provides trend data to identify which devices will need maintenance, what kind they will need and when.

This is article was written by: Patti Pool
Products Editor

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Ceramic Disc Taps

2008-11-02T07:02:00.000-08:00

Taps drip. It's inevitable, like death and taxes.
Traditional taps seal using a rubber ring screwed down over
the end of a metal pipe. Sooner or later the rubber is
going to go hard, split or just wear away and it will no
longer seal. Then water seeps through, and the tap starts
dripping. Left alone the problem gets worse as the water
wears away the valve seat. Then you'll have to either
re-grind the valve seat(Do you own a valve seat re-grinder?
Who would?) or replace the tap. Tedious in either case.
But, it need not happen. Many taps now use ceramic discs.

Method of Operation

Instead of creating a seal by forcing a rubber washer onto
the end of the water feed pipe, they use two ceramic discs
each with matching slots in them. These are held over the
end of the water feed pipe. The lower disc doesn't move
while the upper disc is turned over the lower disc by the
tap head. Water will only flow when the upper and lower
slots match up.

Advantages

There are a number of benefits to this arrangement. The most
obvious is that ceramic discs are much harder than rubber
and much more resistant to erosion by water seepage. Hence
they have a much longer life before needing replacement.
Additionally, because the water flows between the two discs,
the discs erode not the metal of the valve. Also, because
of the way the discs are arranged, the taps go fully on with
only one quarter of a turn and tap needs only light pressure
to operate. This light action has the advantage that they
are easy to operate with the back of the hand if your hands
are dirty and for people with restricted movement.

Where they are Used

The ease of operation and the long life mean that most good
quality sink mixer taps have been made using ceramic discs
for a while, but basin taps with ceramic discs are
surprisingly less common. The more use a tap gets, the more
attractive the use of ceramic disc technology becomes. This
is doubly true in hard water areas, which can be murder on
traditional taps.

Disadvantages

Everything has it's downside, and there are cons to ceramic
disc taps. They do eventually wear out and are more
expensive than old style taps and are not suitable for very
low water pressure. Unusually, many of the manufacturers
seem to use standard sizes, so getting a replacement is
often straightforward. Because taps on basins can be either
handed or not not, one can't always be sure which way to
turn each tap on, this can be annoying! Lastly, unlike
traditional style taps, which take a number of turns to be
on full, you may easily turn the water flow on far more than
meant. The unexpectedly vigorous water flow and splashing
can cause water going everywhere, including over your
clothes. Not Good!

Bob Plum is the owner of BuyPlumbing co uk Ltd. If you live in Britain then the link http://www.buyplumbing.co.uk gives you access to a wide range of competitively priced bathroom goods and plumbing fittings.

Advice On How To Repair A Leaky Kitchen Faucet

2008-10-20T03:39:00.000-07:00

It isn't uncommon to see homeowners losing sleep over a leaky kitchen faucet. It may be just a trickle of water, but it amounts to a colossal waste of money and scarce resources. But the good news is that this inconsequential, yet very grating problem can be fixed rather easily without any professional help or hi-end plumbing tools.

Simple Steps That Promise A Quick-Fix Solution

Here are simple steps that teach you how to repair a leaky kitchen faucet with functional tools like a screwdriver and an adjustable wrench:

Faucets are generally categorized into four types- ball type, ceramic disc, cartridge or compression type. You must be very sure about the one installed in your kitchen.
The process starts with targeting the shut-off valve under the sink. Turn off the water and drain the contents of the pipe too.
Cover the sink drain to prevent any small parts of the faucet from falling inside it.
Starting with the faucet handle, unscrew all parts carefully, without losing track of their order of installation. This prevents any kind of confusion after repair. Collect all the parts in a cloth, and keep aside safely.
Cover the jaws of the wrench with duct tape to prevent any damage to the fixtures.
Now it's time to assess the damage. In case of a cartridge, ceramic disk or ball type faucet, the villain of the piece is generally the O-ring. Sometimes, it may be a double whammy, with a completely corroded valve seat as well. If it's in order, then you may have to shell out less than $20 and replace the entire assembly.
Compression faucets are invariably plagued by worn-out seat washers. Once the handle is taken off, the packing nut needs to be unscrewed with a wrench. Remove the stem and change the damaged part.
Apply plumber's grease or Vaseline on the same. A scouring pad or distilled white vinegar is applied to do away with the mineral deposits on the faucet parts.
Once the faulty part is replaced, tighten all screws and replace the faucet handle cap.
Turn on the water, and voila! Your leaky kitchen faucet is past tense.

So without any further ado, get your tools and fix this banal problem at once.

Advise on Organic Toddler Food, tips on Kitchen Backsplash Designs and more at http://www.SpicyKitchens.com

Duckbill Check Valve Design And Backflow Prevention

2008-10-17T20:39:00.001-07:00

Check valves are engineered to allow the flow of fluid across a pipeline system or port in one direction only. They are reactive valves, meaning that they are activated by the amount and the pressure of the fluid present in the system environment. These valves are typically used in backflow prevention applications, flood prevention environments, and wastewater treatment entities.

In 1984, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) commissioned the testing of a new kind of check valve; one that stood out as a clear alternative to flapgate valves. The new valve featured a duckbill-shaped inner elastomer sleeve that responded keenly to changes in fluid pressure. The valve sleeve closed in response to backflow pressure, forming a tight seal that blocked debris from entering waterways.

Further testing proved that the duckbill-shaped design also offered superior performance in pollutant entrapment, durability, the stopping of leakage, and various self-cleaning capabilities. Now, the duckbill elastomer check valve is routinely used in backwater prevention and waterway applications. The curved shape of the interior valve bill can regularly achieve a tight closed position, providing an excellent seal against debris in backflow applications. Various duckbill models have been engineered for low pressure applications, and for pollution prevention efforts on larger waterways.

How does a check valve work?

Check valves are designed to respond to pressure differences. Throughout the life cycle of the valve, there are instances where the pressure of the fluids traveling through the valve is greater than the pressure across the valve mechanism. The force of upstream water creates high differential pressure across the interior valve body, so the valve opens, allowing forward streams to pass through. However, back-flowing water lowers differential pressure across the valve body, so the duckbill elastomer valve flexes closed, sealing debris out.

Modern valves are engineered to respond to modest pressure changes. These newer valves respond to slight changes in differential pressure from forward- or backflow, making them useful for a variety of environments. Unlike check valves with metal components, such as disc check valves, duckbill elastomer valves require significantly less maintenance - they lack interior metal components that can rust or become corroded.

For what applications might check valves be used?

Duckbill valves can be used in a variety of wastewater, stormwater, and backflow prevention applications. One excellent case study involved a large, well-known retail store in St. Petersburg, FL. This store had a large retention pond, or man-made pond designed to collect rainwater. The pond was decorated with fresh water vegetation, as are many retention ponds in this part of the American Southeast. The pond was fitted with three drainage pipes that terminated in Tampa Bay.

Turbulent weather proved to be a problem for this store. During periods of heavy rain and high tides, the waters of Tampa Bay reverse-flowed into the pond, causing the vegetation to wither and die. The pond was fitted with three 36-inch check valves. Since these valves responded to subtle pressure differentials, they proved to be an excellent solution in preventing salt water backflow.

Duckbill valves are suitable for a variety of other applications, as well. Some models are ideal for manhole and end-of-pipe outfall installations. Others are installed for the purposes of sewer system control and sewer backflow prevention. Still others are used for stormwater control, as the retail store case study illustrates; or, for wastewater treatment applications. Certain duckbill models can be used in industrial applications, such as corrosive slurry handling, caustic chemical applications, and high-temperature chemical reactions.

The design and structure of duckbill check valves make them widely applicable in pressured fluid environments. The elastomer bill design is low-maintenance, rust-free, and can be highly responsive to very subtle pressure changes across line fluid. These valves do not require a power source or any exterior action to operate. As a result, they are highly versatile and highly durable.

Tideflex Technologies, a division of Red Valve Company, Inc., engineers a variety of duckbill check valves for backflow prevention applications. In addition, this company offers a complete line of inline check valves, potable water mixing systems, and air diffusers. Visit Tideflex Technologies online at tideflex.com.

Fisher Control Valves

2008-10-07T19:23:00.001-07:00

Fisher is easily the world leader in providing reliable regulators, control valves, instrumentation and performance of services. Fisher offers innovative and carefully testicles solutions to process control industry play a huge role to reduce costs by keeping a lid on maintenance, reducing capital requirements, reducing costs of regulatory compliance and increase the availability process.

Fisher high-performance anti-wave valve is easy to implement and service. These valves are specially designed and modified to meet the specific needs and requirements of the compressor fight against the surge in applications that require the ultimate in control and reliability. No longer do you need to activate the complex systems that require staff authorized to order and music. Now, the fight against the surge Fisher is adjusting valve easy and can also save money spent during the following update to repay your initial investment several times during the high-performance valves life.

Manufacturers of Fisher control valves understand precisely how to meet fight against the valve control components - actuators, digital controller valve, the valve itself and other elements involved in an efficient and effective design that does just as with the engineering expertise of 125 years of process control. The fishermen fights against the surge valves are rightly to be the best in the operation, control and reliability.

The anti surge FIELDVUE digital valve controller (DVC) has many innovative features - a robust pneumatic relay, a rugged I/P converter, and potted electronics designed to protect it from rough environments. These valves are certified as being both explosion proof and safe. These valves comply with the requirements of the European ATEX directive and its enclosure meets the NEMA 4X and IEC 60529 IP66 criteria.

For more info on Fisher Control Valves , please visit: Fisher Control Valves website.

Home Sprinkler Valves

2008-09-26T12:07:00.000-07:00

Do you need a new valve? There are several choices for sprinkler valves : Rain Bird, Hunter, Toro, Orbit, and Lawn Genie. They vary a lot in quality and styles.

Buy Rain Bird

Let's make it simple. Buy Rain Bird one inch valves. They are the best valve to use. If you are into high pressure systems (over 80 psi) get an upgraded valve that is dull black. The dull black valves are a nylon plastic composite that is stronger than a shiny black valve. If you need a high pressure valve go to a real plumbing or sprinkler store. Big box retailers will not carry this valve.

Nowadays, the majority of contractors put in Hunter. Rain Bird was the standard for many years. Then, Hunter came in and priced their valves one dollar less than Rain Bird. Since the quality was similar, contractors slowly switched to Hunter. Hunter valves are easier to install because they are smaller. They are also easier to repair because they only have four screws on top. Now, the prices are equal, but contractors like the ease of the Hunter valves.

Flow Control

You may wish to check for a flow control knob. This means you can turn down the water pressure to that valve. Most of the time, you will never need to use the flow control. Most people never touch them. They are valuable, although, because you can turn the water off to that valve if it is leaking. In addition, if the valve won't quite shut you can slightly turn down the flow control and the valve will work properly.

Jar Top or Inline

Nearly all valves installed are inline. Inline valves are basically regular valves that hook up to the sprinkler main line. Jar top valves are hooked up exactly the same way. Jar top valves have an added feature. To remove the top, you just unscrew it. You don't need to take out screws. It makes it more convenient to replace the top of the valve or to just clean out the valve. Jar top valves are increasing in popularity.

Don't even consider installing Lawn Genie products. Orbit is the next worst product; avoid it. Toro is a little better than Orbit, but still not that great. Hunter is fair. Rain Bird is Great.

For further landscape information, please visit outdoor shower

Ball Valve History & Mystery

2008-09-07T05:24:00.000-07:00

I have been seeing and touching various types of ball valves, but funnily I never knew the history of this brilliant tool which is very important in the processing industry. I found this article which was authored by Ham-Let. Check it out...

Here is a light hearted history and trivia on the ball valve. Read it and you will never take your natural gas or electricity for granted again, ok so maybe you will…

Ball Valve mystery?

Ball Valve history does not go back to ancient Greece or the American revolution or does it? The modern ball valve was invented in 1967 or about 1957 according to different sources. Who cares when the ball valve was invented? Besides the patented owner, probably not many people. Still the ball valve was major advancement over plug valves used in the 20th century. The earliest ball valves were commercially available around 1967. For ancient parallels, the ruins of Pompeii turned up a bronze tapered plug quarter turn valve that resembles to the ball valve today. How’s that for a ball valve mystery?

Ball Valve Birth Pains

Ball Valve researchers point to a spherical ball-type valve patented in 1871 led to the invention of today's ball valve. This ball valve was an all brass valve-brass ball and brass seats. Apparently this ball valve didn't storm the market and was not mentioned in valve catalogs of the late 1800's While today's ball valve is quite a recent invention, the idea for this ball valve has been around about 125 years. The first resilient seated ball valve patent was issued in April,1945. Legend has it the company’s marketing department could not envision a use for the valve and it was not manufactured. Oh well, that’s the way the ball valve bounces...Given the huge reliance on the ball valve today, it's a mystery why it took so long for people to invent and use the ball valve.

Ham-Let is a leading ball valve producer in quality, variety and ball valve development. For more info on Hamlet’s ball valve line of products, please contact Ham-Let.

Snowmobile Power Valves - Polaris, Ski-Doo & Arctic Cat Variable Exhaust Valve System Basics

2008-04-26T07:43:00.000-07:00

They can be called "APV" by Arctic Cat, "RAVE" by Ski-Doo or "VES" by Polaris. If you own a 2-stroke snowmobile made in the last 15 years, the engine is likely equipped with "variable exhaust power valves". If that is the case, you probably know that you have to be quite diligent about their cleanliness and operation. This is one engine component that has to be monitored regularly to maintain peak performance.

Variable exhaust power valves are moving devices located at the engine's exhaust port. Every brand's variation is there to provide the same essential service and that is to vary the height and width of the exhaust port according to engine RPM. This vastly broadens the power band. At low RPM, the valves are in a closed position which promotes more complete combustion. This improves low-end torque and minimizes unburned gases in the exhaust stream. At high RPM, the valves are wide open which allows for optimum exhaust flow. This enables the engine to rev freely and produce maximum top end horsepower. Older systems were actuated by a mechanical linkage which opened and closed the valves based on engine RPM. Modern systems are actuated by electronic servo motors which precisely position the valves throughout the RPM range. Before the advent of the power valve, engine builders had to determine one size and shape of the exhaust port and exhaust pipe. This predetermined whether the engine would provide its optimum power delivery at either the high, mid or low RPM range. The power valve allows the two-cycle engine to provide usable horsepower throughout its operating RPM range.

The modern power valve system has evolved from a number of different variations over the last 30 years. Yamaha was the first company to find success with this concept when they integrated a variable exhaust power valve system in their 2-stroke Grand Prix road-racing motorcycles in the late 1970's. The technology then made its way to Yamaha's production road and motocross bikes the early 1980's. Other motorcycle manufacturers soon came up with their own systems. By the early 1990's, virtually all high-performance two-cycle motorcycles, ATV's, personal water-crafts and snowmobiles were equipped with variable exhaust power valve systems.

Keeping the power valve system clean is of paramount importance. As power valves are located directly in the stream of the exhaust flow, carbon deposits can accumulate on the valves over time. The deposit build-up can alter the shape of the valves and change the engine's exhaust flow characteristics. In extreme cases, the exhaust port can become completely clogged and expensive damage can occur. Deposits can also can hinder the valve movement or leave them stuck in one spot. Any of these scenarios will drastically impair the power delivery and output of your engine.

The task of maintaining your snowmobile's power valve system is not complicated. Your service or owner's manual will give specific instructions on how to remove and clean the system. Be careful when cleaning the valves, as you do not want to scratch or roughen the surfaces. Your manual will also offer a specific service interval and it should be followed religiously.

Once your valves are clean, there are ways to prevent premature valve depositing. First and foremost is to make sure that your machine is tuned correctly. Overly rich carburetor jetting is a major contributor to this malady. Rich jetting will allow too much fuel into the combustion chamber and this promotes carbon formation. If your sled is fuel injected, make sure that the system is operating correctly. Also make sure that your oil injection system is delivering the proper amount of oil. Perform regular spark plug readings as described in your manual. If your plug readings are off and you cannot determine the cause, contact your dealer.

Another major contributor to power valve depositing is the use of poor quality 2-cycle oil. The cheaper base stocks and additives used in lower grade oils can be cooked into carbon deposits very quickly. High quality synthetic two-cycle oil is notorious for its clean burning characteristics and will dramatically lower the rate of deposit formation. Good quality synthetic oils use sophisticated base stocks and high temperature additives which are engineered to avoid power valve depositing. They also have an effective detergent/dispersant package which will allow for much cleaner operation. When it comes to two-stroke injector oil, you definitely get what you pay for. Spending a little more on an oil that is specifically engineered to provide clean power valve operation will not only improve your engine's performance, it will save the headaches and expense that come with premature power valve depositing.

Snowmobiles operated at low speed and steady RPM over extended periods can also promote deposit build up. During this type of operation, the valves maintain a stationary position and this allows deposits to form. If the valves are constantly changing positions, there is less chance of deposits forming and increasing in size.

Variable exhaust power valves have revolutionized the capabilities of 2-cycle engines. With a little bit of maintenance and care, they will offer trouble-free performance.

Marc Roden is an AMSOIL Dealer in Canada who owns and operates Oildepot.ca. Oildepot.ca offers a complete line of Amsoil Synthetic Snowmobile Oils and Lubricants as well as products for powersport, automotive and industrial applications. Oildepot.ca offers Amsoil Interceptor Synthetic 2-Stroke Oil for Power Valves for injector and premix applications. You can buy AMSOIL products through Oildepot.ca and have product shipped to you anywhere in Canada from distributions centers in Edmonton and Mississauga. AMSOIL wholesale accounts are available for individuals, retailers and commercial entities.

Pinch Valve Sleeves

2008-04-26T07:42:00.001-07:00

Many industries use specific valves, called pinch valves, to control fluids, wastewater, slurries, abrasives and corrosive chemicals. Pinch valves are constructed of a heavy-duty, rugged pinch mechanism that positions a sleeve. The valve offers maximum durability and ensures precise flow control in many industrial processes.

Inside every pinch valve is a sleeve that is crucial to the performance success of the valve. This sleeve enables a pinch valve to have a bi-directional, drop tight shut off with which to control flow. Most pinch valve sleeves are made of flexible elastomer compounds, many of which resemble rubber in composition and feel. Because a sleeve's composition is crucial to the success of the valve's application, valve manufacturers offer different elastomer options from which the sleeve can be constructed.

The many uses of the pinch valve

Because pinch valves are useful in a wide range of industries, the ability of a purchaser to choose the desired sleeve composition is paramount. Commonly used in the mining industry, a pinch valve's tough construction makes it ideal for use on harsh and abrasive mining slurries. Pinch valves can also be useful in demanding wastewater treatment applications. For example, a pinch valve's accurate, repeatable linear flow control and drop tight, bi-directional shut off make this valve type a good choice for sludge and raw sewage control.

In the power industry, pinch valves are an important component used in lime and ash handling - two tough services commonly found within a power plant. The abrasion-resistant, self-cleaning, and flexible elastomer sleeve of a pinch valve won't scale, bridge, plug or freeze on slurries. Pinch valves can also work in the treatment and handling of corrosive chemicals. Because there is no packing to maintain and no cavities, seats, or cam action to bind valve operation, pinch valves are often used in corrosive chemical applications.

Pinch valves can also be used in pulp and paper mills. Pulp stock, coating and recycled paper lines are some of the most difficult applications for a valve. The flexible elastomer sleeve of a pinch valve are able to withstand these abrasive services. Pinch valves can also be a great asset in food and beverage plants, cement/sand/silica factories, refineries, pneumatic conveying, and scrubbing.

A sleeve elastomer for every application

The multitude of uses for pinch valves require that purchasers be able to choose specific sleeve compositions and styles for various applications. A pure gum rubber sleeve, for example, is not suitable for the handling of strong acids, but might be appropriate for food manufacture or alcohol distillation. The application of a particular pinch valve, including the temperature range to which it will be exposed, dictates which sleeve elastomer a valve customer should choose.

Pure gum rubber sleeves are resilient and abrasion-resistant. They can handle an incredibly wide temperature range, from -50 F to 180 F, and they are extremely flexible, as well as non-marking. They are composed of natural rubber, and are most suitable for organic (or, carbon-based) acids, and mild chemical compounds, including alcohols. Strong acid and basic solutions, oils, and solvents are some of the chemicals that this type of pinch valve sleeve is ill-equipped to handle.

Neoprene pinch valve sleeves are synthetic rubber sleeves composed of chloroprene polymers. They handle a slightly wider temperature range than pure gum rubber sleeves do, working well with temperatures up to 220 F. Neoprene is chemically inert, and works best in the handling of moderate acids and other chemicals. Unlike pure gum rubber, it is strong and resilient enough to handle products containing ozone, as well as some oils and fats. Neoprene is more resistant to abrasion than is gum rubber; however, it can be eroded or weakened by oxidizing acids, ketone, ester, and chlorinated hydrocarbons.

Sleeves composed of chlorobutyl elastomers, or chlorinated butyl rubber compounds, handle major temperature ranges, from -60 F to 300 F. These sleeves are known for their good abrasion resistance and their ability to handle animal and vegetable fats. However, other types of oils are too heavy for chlorobutyl elastomers to handle -- as are solvents, which can break down the rubber.

The trademarked name of nitrile (a triple-bonded carbon-nitrogen compound), Buna-N can be used to make sleeves suitable for -40F to 240 F temperature ranges. These types of sleeves can be useful in chemical manufacture and chemical engineering because they can handle chemicals and solvents. They are not suitable, however, for ozone, ester, ketone, or nitro/chlorinated hydrocarbons. Meanwhile, Hypalon, a trademarked name for a chlorosulfonated polyethylene compound, is used to construct sleeves suitable for temperature ranges between -60 F and 275 F. This durable compound can handle quite strong acids and bases, as well as freon, ozone, alcohol compounds, and alkalines. This type of pinch valve sleeve should not be used with ketone, ester, or various aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons. Hypalon resists weathering quite well, however.

EPDM (or ethylene propylene diene monomer) valve sleeves are excellent for use with fats and oils. These valves -- made of the material used to seal vehicle doors, windows, and the like -- can withstand temperature ranges between -60F and 300F. They should not be used, however, to work with mineral oils or solvents. They also weather well. Viton, a type of synthetic rubber used commonly in O-rings, can also be used with animal and vegetable oils, as well as with acids. Though this type of sleeve performs poorly at temperatures lower than -10 F, it performs quite well at temperatures up to 400 F. Viton sleeves also display excellent tensile strength.

Each of the many uses of pinch valves requires careful consideration of the valve sleeve that is most appropriate to the process for which the valve will be used. With the variety of sleeve elastomer options available, it is no wonder that pinch valves are applicable in so many situations and for so many processes.

Red Valve, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, manufactures custom pinch valves, including air operated, control, and manual pinch valves, along with pinch valve sleeves. For more information, visit Red Valve's Web site.

If you want to learn about heat exchanger tubing, check out this One Stop Heat Exchanger Center.

Seafoam Valve Cleaning

2008-04-26T04:57:00.001-07:00

Seafoam like Techron or any other valve cleaner or fuel additive should only be used every 10-15k miles. Over the course of normal driving carbon can deposit itself on the back of the valves and piston tops. Using cleaner through the intake can help control these deposits, which can cause a loss in fuel economy and performance. Below you can see two pistons removed from an engine with 32,000 miles. The piston on the left is from a cylinder treated with Seafoam prior to removal.

Start by measuring out 6oz or 3/4 cup of Seafoam into a small jar. Now, with the car heated up and running locate a vacuum line that can be disconnected at idle, or source one from the vacuum tree under the throttle body cover or off the wastegate. Place your finger over the line to confirm it is indeed a source for vacuum. Leave your finger over the hose until you are ready to begin.

Slowly submerge the vacuum line in the Seafoam until the engine starts to stall. This step is a balancing act of keeping the engine idling while tying to induce the cleaning solution as quickly as possible. If you are having a problem with the engine stalling out, try dabbing the vacuum line in and out of the solution.

Once you have introduced the 6oz of seam foam shut then engine off and wait ~10 minutes.

Once ten minutes have elapsed and you have reconnected the vacuum line restart the engine. At this point the exhaust will smoke and you may experience some back firing. This step is the Seafoam burning off. Wait until the smoke has slowed and then take the car on a 3-4 mile drive. During acceleration expect some light to heavy smoke which will subside after a few mile. This valve cleaning process should be repeated every 2-3 oil changes.

There is a movie on this process located here

View Picture

http://www.volvospeed.com