What are the characteristics of butterfly valve?

Butterfly valve is a device that realizes better flow control. This design adopts a metal disc that rotates 1/4 around a fixed stem axis. It can quickly switch between open and closed positions with a 90-degree rotation. In addition, the disc is usually the same size as the inside diameter of the adjacent pipe and has a full color function.

Naturally, butterfly valves are manufactured in various sizes and design configurations to provide specific flow control functions. As a result, they are used in various applications and industries such as HVAC, fire protection, slurry, and sanitary equipment.

So, why not use butterfly valves in pump and ventilation systems? Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of butterfly valves so that you can make a more appropriate decision.

Advantages of Butterfly Valves

Lightweight and Compact

Butterfly valves are ideal for a variety of applications because they are very lightweight and compact in design while providing adequate flow control. Generally, metal seat valves are suitable for harsh fluid handling, while soft seat butterfly valves are optimal for low pressure and low temperature applications. Butterfly discs require little installation space and are strong enough for most pump systems.

Simple and cost-effective.

Butterfly valves are very simple in design and require no maintenance. They are also easy to install and operate. They are also generally much cheaper than ball valves of the same size. They do not require a lot of torque to operate effectively, and automation allows for energy-efficient operation.

Fast and efficient

They can seal quickly when operated with a 90-degree turning radius, minimizing valve opening and closing operations and providing more accurate flow control. There are a variety of butterfly valves to consider, including zero-offset, double-offset, and triple-offset. The type required is usually determined by pressure. The greater the offset, the higher the pressure the valve can handle.

Pressure control

In addition to precise flow control, butterfly valves are also excellent for pressure control. Butterfly valves minimize pressure loss during operation, and the fluid regains energy immediately after exiting the valve. This allows the pump system to operate efficiently with a stable fluid pressure.

Disadvantages of butterfly valves

Corrosion and viscous fluids

Viscous and corrosive fluids tend to rub against the disc of a butterfly valve during operation, which can lead to rapid deterioration of the disc or loss of sealing pressure. When handling high viscosity liquids, it is recommended to use a more robust ball valve or gate valve rather than a butterfly valve.

Cavitation and Chalk Flow

When the valve is in the open position, the disc does not fully engage the port. This can result in excessive debris build-up around the valve, cavitation or chalk flow in certain applications. If full port access is required, a ball valve may be a better choice.

No High Pressure Throttle Required

Butterfly valves are effective for low pressure throttling applications because their opening is limited to 30 to 80 degrees. However, for high pressures, a globe valve can provide excellent results.