Many people overlook the value of check valves simply because they do not understand what they are or why they are important. Paying attention to how the standard check valve works within the average piping system can help greatly in this regard.
What is a Check Valve?
A check valve makes it possible for flow within a piping system to move in one direction. A profound benefit of these valves is that they prevent disastrous reverse flow without most piping systems as long as they are installed correctly and maintained. There are not very many self-automated valves on the market today that do not require human intervention to close and open.
Continuous Workflow, No Interruption
What sets check valves apart from other valves is that they continuously work around the clock regardless of what happens in the plant. The plant could possibly lose electricity or air, but it will not affect the operational cycle of these valves. As mentioned, human intervention is not even needed to ensure these valves operate correctly – eliminating the need to waste any manpower or wages on manual cycling.
A Wide Variety of Applications
Whether you realize it or not, check valves are used in a wide range of applications. If you examine the discharge line of a sump pump, you will more than likely find a check valve. They also come in a wide range of sizes, end connections and materials – adding even more value and versatility to these products. For instance, there is a vast selection of high-quality valves available from stainless steel check valve suppliers. These valves also play instrumental roles in the successful flow and operation of header lines, condensate lines, cooling towers, vacuum breakers and loading racks.
If you work in any type of industrial plant or work with any type of utility piping systems, you are likely already depending greatly on the overlooked and underestimated check valve.