Valve

   

de:Ventil el:Βαλβίδα es:Válvula fr:Valve it:Valvola ja:弁 ko:벨브 nl:Klep pt:Válvula ru:Клапан zh:閥門


A valve is a mechanical device that regulates the flow of fluids (either gases, fluidised solids, slurries or liquids) by opening, closing, or partially obstructing various passageways.

There are a number of names for particular types of valve:

  • Ball cock, often used as a water level controller (cistern)
  • Ball valve, which is good for on/off control.
  • Bibcock
  • Butterfly valve, particularly in large pipes
  • Cock, colloquial term for a small valve
  • Gate valve, mainly for on/off control
  • Globe valve, which is good for regulating flow.
  • Hydraulic valve (diaphragm valve)
  • check valve or Non-return valve, allows the fluid to pass in one direction only
  • Pilot valves regulate flow or pressure to other valves.
  • Plug Valve , for on/off control
  • Solenoid valve, an electrically controlled hydraulic or pneumatic valve
  • Tap (British English), Faucet (American English) is the common name for a valve used in homes to regulate water flow.
  • Rotary valves and piston valves are parts of brass instruments used to change their pitch.

Different valves may be used for a variety of purposes:

  • A flow control valve maintains a constant flowrate through the valve.
  • A heart valve regulates blood flow through the heart in many organisms.
  • A poppet valve is commonly used in piston engines to regulate the fuel mixture intake and exhaust. The sleeve valve is another valve type used for this purpose.
  • A pressure reducing valve reduces pressure to a preset level downstream of the valve.
  • A pressure sustaining valve maintains pressure at a preset level upstream of the valve.
  • A regulator is used in SCUBA diving equipment and in gas cooking equipment to reduce the high pressure gas supply to a lower working pressure
  • A safety valve or relief valve operates automatically at a set differential pressure to correct a potentially dangerous situation, typically over-pressure.
  • A three way valve routes fluid from one direction to another.

Other uses of the term

See also


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