Pros and Cons of 2 Check Valves Types

Check valves are a crucial component in water and wastewater pumping systems, automatically opening during pump operation and closing to prevent reverse flow. The valves play a significant role in conserving energy and safeguarding the pumping system from pressure surges and potential reverse flow damage. Recent insights emphasize the importance of selecting the right type of check valve to suit specific application requirements.

Choosing the appropriate check valve can be akin to selecting hardware for a new installation; once the type is identified, the options in styles, colors, and price points can be overwhelming. Each check valve design addresses distinct operational needs. Thus, understanding the advantages and disadvantages of two prevalent styles of check valves, specifically lift check and swing check valves, is essential.

Lift Check Valves

Lift check valves are predominantly utilized in applications involving high-rise buildings, industrial setups, and water treatment facilities. They are recognized for their reliability and cost-effectiveness, showing no external moving parts. However, a significant drawback of lift check valves is the potential for increased energy costs since their disc remains in the flow path during operation.

Silent Check Valve

Silent check valves operate with minimal noise during closure. Forward flow pushes the valve's disc to facilitate movement, while a compression spring ensures a quiet recovery to the seat before any reverse flow occurs. These valves are particularly effective in clean water systems characterized by high pressure.

Ball Check Valve

Ball check valves are widely employed in water and wastewater services, featuring a straightforward operational mechanism. They consist of a rubber-coated ball that moves with the flow, sealing the valve during reverse flow. Nevertheless, these valves risk slamming under high-head conditions due to the ball's significant travel distance when closing.

Swing Check Valves

Swing check valves are among the most commonly utilized in water and wastewater systems. They are convenient and require no external power, functioning solely based on flow direction. These valves are available in various configurations.

Dual-Disc Swing Check Valve

This type features a wafer body design with two D-shaped discs that rotate to permit flow. While providing excellent non-slam characteristics, dual-disc check valves are not suitable for wastewater applications and are susceptible to wear and vibration.

Traditional Swing Check Valve

The traditional swing check valve is highly recognized and predominantly used in water and wastewater applications. It typically employs either metal or resilient seats and operates on a 60-90 degree swing. However, its long stroke can lead to slamming, exacerbated by friction in the packing and the inertia of the disc. Some users mitigate slamming via air cushions, whereas others prefer employing a lever and spring mechanism to enhance closure speed.

Tilted Disc Check Valve

Distinct from the traditional swing check valve, the tilted disc design allows flow from both sides of the disc, promoting minimal head loss and increased efficiency. However, it is not advisable for wastewater applications, as the extending pins can gather debris. Instead, it is best suited for clean water or treated effluent use.

Choosing the correct check valve is paramount for the efficiency and safety of your system. Consult with an engineer experienced in check valve applications to potentially identify options that minimize slamming and conserve energy effectively.

Interested in reassessing your check valves? Contact us for technical assistance tailored to businesses and municipalities across Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, and upper Michigan.

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