Butterfly valves have become an essential component of many fluid control systems, providing a reliable and cost-effective solution for regulating fluid flow in a wide range of applications. Although they were once only used in low-pressure settings, modern-day butterfly valves are now available in different types, each with improved features that make them suitable for various pressure settings, tight shut-off, and high-pressure and temperature applications.
In this article, we will explore the different applications and industries where butterfly valves are commonly used. We will discuss the benefits of using butterfly valves in different settings, such as their versatility, ease of maintenance, and superior performance. Understanding the different uses and advantages of butterfly valves can help you make informed decisions about your fluid control needs.
Av-Tek Valves offers an extensive selection of butterfly valves, including the DEX double eccentric butterfly valves, engineered for dependable performance and lasting durability. To find out more about our products and how we can help meet your valve needs, contact us today at info@avtekvalves.com or call (385) 325-2504 or (801) 637-8541.
Where Are Butterfly Valves Used?
Butterfly valves have come a long way from their origins as low-pressure valves with limited functionality. Today, these valves are used in a variety of applications and industries thanks to their improved design and features.
Here are some of the most common applications in which butterfly valves are used:
- On/Off Service or Start/Stop Flow Control: Butterfly valves have a simple design that allows them to operate quickly and easily. They can be opened or closed in just a quarter turn of the valve handle, making them an ideal choice for applications that require frequent valve operation.
- Regulating Fluid Flow: By adjusting the valve’s position, butterfly valves can be used to regulate the flow of fluids in pipelines, providing a high degree of control over the fluid flow rate.
- Backflow Prevention: Butterfly valves are designed to allow flow in only one direction, making them ideal for preventing backflow and protecting the system from damage.
- Throttling: Butterfly valves possess superior throttling characteristics. They can effectively respond to both pressures and flow, resulting in a linear flow response.
Butterfly Valves in Different Industries: Common Uses and Benefits
Water Treatment Industry
Butterfly valves are commonly used in water treatment plants for on/off and throttling service providers. They are preferred over gate valves due to their lightweight design, ease of manipulation, and low-pressure drop. In particular, double eccentric butterfly valves (DEX) are widely used in this industry for their ability to provide tight shut-off and handle slurries and corrosive fluids.
Food and Beverage Industry
Butterfly valves are commonly used in the food and beverage industry for regulating fluid flow, backflow prevention, and isolation services.
Sanitary butterfly valves, in particular, are designed with a smooth surface finish, making them easy to clean and maintain. This feature is crucial in food and beverage processing, where cleanliness is a top priority. Sanitary butterfly valves are used in applications that require hygienic environments, such as in the production of dairy products, beer, and soft drinks.
Oil and Gas Industry
In the oil and gas industry, butterfly valves are commonly used for flow isolation and control services. They are preferred over ball valves because of their lightweight and space-saving features, which make them suitable for offshore and subsea applications.
Triple offset high-performance butterfly valves are particularly popular in this industry due to their ability to provide tight shut-off and withstand harsh environments. These valves are ideal for ensuring reliable fluid control in challenging operating conditions, making them a go-to solution for oil and gas applications.
Pharmaceutical Industry
Butterfly valves are used in the pharmaceutical industry for regulating fluid flow, backflow prevention, and isolation services.
Sanitary butterfly valves are particularly popular in this industry due to their low maintenance requirements and ability to provide tight shut-off. These valves are designed with a smooth surface finish, which makes them easy to clean and maintain in sterile environments. They are typically used in the production of vaccines, medicines, and medical devices.
Av-Tek Valves: Enhancing Your Industry Operations
Butterfly valves have come a long way since their inception, and their popularity has only grown due to their versatility and reliability in fluid control applications. From the water treatment industry to oil and gas, food and beverage, and pharmaceutical industries, butterfly valves are used in various applications due to their ability to handle different fluids, ease of maintenance, and cost-effectiveness.
As industries continue to evolve, butterfly valves are poised to remain a go-to solution for fluid control needs. Their adaptability and superior performance make them an excellent choice for a wide range of applications.
If you’re in need of high-performance butterfly valves, Av-Tek Valves offers a selection of precision valves, such as DEX double eccentric butterfly valves. With superior design and performance, these valves are perfect for any flow control application.
Contact us today to discuss your valve requirements. You can email us at info@avtekvalves.com or call us at (385) 325-2504 or (801) 637-8541. Our team of experts is always ready to assist you.
