What Is The Most Common Type Of Stainless Steel Globe Valve?

When selecting stainless steel globe valves, two predominant constructions emerge – standard inline globes and compact tee-pattern valves. Both deliver reliable flow control yet in different configurations suited for particular installation constraints.

Inline globes align with pipeline direction for direct flow control, while tee-patterns change direction, useful where space proves limited.

We’ll compare both these stainless valve types by structure, operation, applications, and pros/cons.

Inline Globe Valves

The inline globe design interposes its spherical disc-and-seat assembly directly into the flow path, regulated by the valve stem and handwheel. This straight-through architecture imparts little flow direction change, minimizing turbulence.

Upstream pressure contributes to sealing by wedging the disc downward to increase seat contact. Meanwhile, the downstream port vents any leakage via the bonnet. Inline globes also throttle flows effectively in part-open positions.

Tee Pattern Globe Valves

Constructed at 90-degree angles to the pipe run, tee-pattern stainless steel globes offer more compact envelopes. Their three-port “T” configuration reroutes flow using an internal chamber behind the seat area. This allows installing valves close to walls for confined process skids and manifolds.

The tee-pattern orientation still allows high-pressure sealing aided by upstream forces below the seat. However, the side inlet port introduces minor turbulence. These valves are installed in any orientation but upside-down to avoid particle accumulation across the seat.

Globe Valve Comparison

When selecting between inline and tee-pattern stainless steel angle globe valves, engineers weigh key factors:

1. Installation Space

Tee-pattern globes save ample space using their directional flow change. But inline globes fit pipelines with direct accessibility for service.

2. Pressure Rating

Both valve patterns achieve similar pressure class ratings up to 2500 psi by utilizing upstream pressure to enhance sealing.

3. Flow Characteristics

Inline globes allow straight-through flow with little turbulence, while tee-patterns induce modest deviations yet run quietly.

4. Maintainability

Inline bodies easily open for component access compared to enclosure tee-pattern designs. But both still enable full disassembly.

5. Performance

Ultimately, both patterns provide comparable cycle life, tight sealing, and capable flow regulation in stainless steel constructions.

Introduction to PANS

PANS manufactures both robust inline and innovative tee-pattern stainless steel globe valves for chemical, pharmaceutical, food/beverage, and industrial applications.

Over 35 years, their specialized expertise has refined globe valve sealing and performance to excel even in saturated steam, corrosive, freezing, or high cycling services. PANS globes undergo exhaustive testing well beyond 10,000 open-close cycles.

For innovation in stainless steel flow control valves, discerning engineers worldwide turn to PANS. Contact their application experts today to explore both inline and creative tee-pattern solutions precision-engineered to upgrade your processes.

Conclusion

Specifying valves for critical stainless steel pipe systems involves striking the right balance between compact flow direction changes versus straight-through configurations. Tee-pattern stainless globes save considerable space in tight skids and cabinets using creative right-angled constructions. Yet, inline valves allow direct accessibility and minimized turbulence.

Both deliver the stainless durability, chemical compatibility, temperature resilience, and flow control needed for demanding applications. Work with PANS application engineers to determine whether innovative tee-pattern or traditional inline globe valves better suit your infrastructure constraints, pressure sealing demands, and flow control requirements. 

FAQ

• What material is used for globe valves?

  Globe valves are most commonly constructed from bronze, cast iron, stainless steel, alloy steels, and forged steels for durability. More exotic materials like alloys are used in high pressure or corrosion resistance applications.

• Can I use a stainless steel valve with brass fittings?

  Yes, you can install a stainless steel valve with brass fittings. Ensure proper sealing by using a thread sealant and avoiding over-tightening. The different thermal expansion rates between stainless steel and brass must be accounted for in the system design.

• What are the different types of globe valve discs?

  The most common types of globe valve discs are plug-type, ball-type, and disc-type. Plug discs provide linear flow control, ball discs are resilient and shut off tightly, and disc types provide rapid action and tight shutoff but are prone to wear over time.