Top 10 Industrial Valves Used in UK Manufacturing (and How to Choose the Right One)

Introduction

Industrial valves are essential components in manufacturing systems, ensuring fluid and gas flow is properly controlled. From managing water systems to regulating chemical flows, the right valve improves efficiency, safety, and system longevity. In this guide, we'll explore the top 10 industrial valves used in UK manufacturing and provide tips on how to choose the ideal valve for your application.

1. Ball Valves Ball valves are widely used for their durability and excellent sealing properties. Ideal for shutoff applications, they offer low torque operation and come in a variety of materials such as stainless steel (SS 316), brass, and PVC.

2. Gate Valves Gate valves are perfect for on/off control, especially in systems where flow needs to be fully stopped or fully allowed. They're commonly used in water supply and wastewater treatment industries.

3. Globe Valves These are ideal for applications requiring precise flow regulation. The linear motion of the globe valve disc allows for greater control, making them suitable for throttling services.

4. Check Valves Used to prevent backflow in systems, check valves are essential for protecting equipment and maintaining directional flow integrity in pipelines.

5. Butterfly Valves Butterfly valves are known for their compact design and quick shut-off capabilities. They're used extensively in large pipe diameters and low-pressure applications.

6. Needle Valves Perfect for fine flow control, especially in instrumentation and calibration services. Needle valves provide precise adjustments and are common in gas and liquid metering systems.

7. Diaphragm Valves Used in applications requiring contaminant-free flow, diaphragm valves are often employed in food, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries due to their hygienic properties.

8. Pressure Relief Valves Essential for system safety, these valves prevent over-pressurization by releasing excess pressure when needed.

9. Plug Valves These provide quick shut-off and minimal resistance to flow. They're used in pipelines transporting slurries or other viscous fluids.

10. Control Valves Automated and often paired with actuators and controllers, control valves manage flow, pressure, temperature, and liquid levels in complex systems.

How to Choose the Right Valve for Your Application

1. Understand the Fluid Properties: Consider temperature, pressure, and corrosiveness.

2. Determine Flow Requirements: Choose valves based on flow direction, rate, and control needs.

3. Material Compatibility: Ensure valve materials are compatible with media to avoid corrosion or contamination.

4. Space Constraints: Compact valves like butterfly or ball valves are ideal for tight spaces.

5. Maintenance and Cost: Consider ease of maintenance, availability of spares, and total cost of ownership.

Why Choose Valvenok?

At Valvenok, we supply a wide range of industrial valves including ball, needle, and gate valves in various sizes and materials like SS 316, Monel, and Duplex. Whether you're looking for standard solutions or custom-engineered systems, we have the expertise and inventory to meet your needs across the UK.

Conclusion

Selecting the right industrial valve is critical to ensuring your system operates efficiently and safely. With a comprehensive range of options and industry expertise, Valvenok is your trusted supplier for high-quality industrial valves in the UK.

Explore our full valve catalogue at valvenok.com or contact us directly for expert assistance.