What is the Purpose of a Check Valve?

A check valve, also called a non-return valve or a one-way valve, is a mechanical valve that facilitates one-directional flow of fluid (liquid or gas). It is an important part in most plumbing, industrial, and mechanical use by preventing backflow and ensuring the system is efficient and safe. Even though it appears small, the role played by a check valve is a big thing when it comes to domestic and business use.

In this article, we’ll explore the function, types, and applications of check valves and why they are essential in different systems.

What is a Check Valve?

Check valve is a form of valve which will, by itself when standalone, automatically close fluid from going in the backward direction. It is not actuated manually but will always open whenever fluid passes in the right direction. At the reverse fluid flow direction, the valve automatically closes to prevent backflow. It safeguards equipment as well as keeps piping system pressure.

Purpose of a Check Valve

The main application of a check valve is to:

1. Prevent Backflow

Most common and most important application. In water systems, for instance, a check valve prevents dirty water from flowing into clean water sources in the reverse direction.

2. Protect Equipment

Backflow in mechanical and industrial systems can destroy pumps, compressors, and other sensitive equipment. A check valve prevents this, thus prolonging equipment life.

3. Regulate Pressure

In hydraulic or pneumatic line systems, pressure is sustained by the prevention of reverse flow, loss of fluid or gas by check valves.

4. Enhance System Efficiency

With flow control, check valves help in preventing failure of filters, pumps, and process systems, and hence make the whole system efficient.

Types of Check Valves

Several check valves are used for different purposes:

- Swing Check Valve

Uses a hinged disc opening in the direction of flow. It's commonly used in sewer and water supplies.

- Ball Check Valve

Oscillating ball inside the valve seats over a seat on the reversal of the flow of fluid. They're commonly used in low-pressure systems.

- Lift Check Valve

The disc lifts off its seat on fluid flow and returns on being reversed. It's commonly used in high-pressure pipes.

- Dual Plate (or Butterfly) Check Valve

Applied to minor systems and usually on HVAC, water, and gas piping.

Applications of Check Valves

Check valves find applications in plants and systems:

• Plumbing systems (to prevent the contamination of potable water)

• Irrigation systems

• Boiler and heating systems

• Industrial process plants

• Oil and gas pipelines

• Chemical and pharmaceutical production

• Fire protection systems

Conclusion

It's a necessity for engineers, plumbers, and even homeowners who reside in buildings to understand why check valves exist so systems are efficient, safe, and in maintenance. By preventing backflow from happening through check valves and protecting expensive components, these are an absolute requirement of most fluid systems.

When installing a water pump in your residence or building an industrial pipeline, the proper check valve saves money, time, and future work.