Sizing check valves: how to properly size a check valve for your application
Check valves are an important part of many different types of systems, and proper sizing is essential to ensure that they function correctly. There are a few different factors that need to be considered when sizing a check valve, and this article will go over each one in detail.
The first factor to consider is the size of the system that the check valve will be installed in. This will help determine the flow rate that the check valve needs to be able to handle. The second factor is the pressure difference that will be present across the check valve. This needs to be taken into account so that the check valve can properly seal against backflow. Finally, the material that the check valve is made from needs to be chosen based on the compatibility with the fluid that will be flowing through it.
Once all of these factors have been considered, you will be able to choose a check valve that is properly sized for your application.
When sizing a check valve, the first step is to determine the required Cv. The Cv is a measure of the ability of a valve to flow fluid. It is the product of the orifice area of the valve and an empirical coefficient that reflects the resistance to flow through the valve.
Once you have determined the required Cv, you can select a check valve with a Cv that meets or exceeds your needs. The next step is to consider the pressure drop across the valve. The pressure drop is a function of the Cv and the flow rate through the valve. For example, a 1" check valve with a Cv of 10 will have a pressure drop of 0.1 psi at a flow rate of 10 gpm.
You should also consider how often the check valve will be operated. If it will be operated frequently, you should select a check valve with a low cracking pressure. Cracking pressure is the minimum upstream pressure required to open the check valve and allow flow through it.
A check valve is a mechanical device that allows fluid to flow in only one direction, preventing backflow. The main function of a check valve is to prevent backflow, but it can also be used to control pressure or vacuum. Check valves are classified according to how they operate. The two main types are lift check valves and swing check valves.
Lift check valves have a disc that opens when fluid flows in the correct direction and closes when fluid flows in the opposite direction. Swing check valves have a hinged disc that swings open when fluid flows in the correct direction and swings shut when fluid flows in the opposite direction.
Check valves are sized according to the diameter of the pipe in which they will be installed. The most common sizes are 2 inches, 3 inches, 4 inches, 6 inches, 8 inches, 10 inches, and 12 inches. Check valves are also available in larger sizes for industrial applications.