Understanding Lift Check Valves Types and Uses
Lift check valves allow fluid flow in one direction and prevent backflow and they are essential for controlling fluid systems efficiently.
This article will help you learn how lift check valves work, their applications, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
What is a lift check valve?
A lift check valve is a type of valve that allows fluid to flow in one direction while preventing backflow. It uses a disc that lifts off the valve seat when fluid flows forward and reseats when the flow stops or reverses, ensuring efficient flow control in various systems.
Get to Know the Different Types of Lift Check Valves
Each type of lift check valve offers specific benefits, making them suitable for various industrial applications to ensure effective backflow prevention and flow control.
| Type | Material/Design | Applications | Advantages | Installation |
| Forged Lift Check Valves | Made through a forging process. | High-temperature and high-pressure environments. | Excellent mechanical strength and resistance to thermal fatigue. | Suitable for both vertical and horizontal installations. |
| Cast Lift Check Valves | Produced through a casting process. | General fluid applications where cost and material versatility are important. | Lighter than forged valves and allows for complex shapes. | Suitable for both vertical and horizontal installations. |
| Vertical Lift Check Valves | Designed for upward flow, utilizing gravity to reseat the disc. | Steam, air, gas, and water lines with high flow velocities. | Reliable backflow prevention in vertical flow lines. | Must be installed vertically to function properly. |
| Horizontal Lift Check Valves | Feature an S-shaped body with a seat parallel to the fluid flow. | Air, gas, and steam services where horizontal flow is required. | Ensures efficient flow and backflow prevention in horizontal lines. | Must be installed horizontally to function properly. |
| Spring-Loaded Lift Check Valves | Incorporate a spring to enhance functionality. | Versatile for systems requiring quick shutoff and response to backflow. | Provide quicker response times compared to non-spring-loaded types. | Can be mounted in almost any position, including vertical and horizontal. |
| Y-Shaped Lift Check Valves | The outlet port is oriented at a 45-degree angle. | Systems that require easy inspection and cleaning without valve removal. | Allow for inspection without removal from piping and easy maintenance access. | Can be installed vertically or horizontally. |
| Angle Pattern Lift Check Valves | Inlet and outlet ports are oriented perpendicular to each other. | Used in systems needing a 90-degree turn in the flow path without extra fittings. | Allows a 90-degree flow turn without needing extra fittings, reducing space and cost. | Can be installed in systems with space constraints. |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Lift Check Valves
When choosing lift check valves, several factors must be considered to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
Factor #1: Pressure
Pressure is a key factor because the valve must be suitable for the system’s operating pressure.
Because of this, high-pressure systems require robust materials, like forged steel, to avoid leaks or valve failure.
Additionally, the valve operates based on the pressure differential between the upstream and downstream sides.
If the pressure is too low, the valve may not open properly, leading to restricted flow.
Factor #2: Flow Rate
Flow rate also affects valve selection. The valve must be correctly sized for the system’s flow rate to avoid inefficiencies or damage.
A higher flow rate can cause turbulence, potentially leading to a water hammer if the valve closes too quickly.
Tip: Choosing a valve with non-slam characteristics can help prevent these issues.
Factor #3: Fluid Characteristics
Fluid characteristics are another consideration. The valve must be compatible with the fluid type, whether it’s a liquid or gas, and its properties, such as viscosity, density, and corrosiveness.
High-temperature fluids require materials that can withstand heat without degrading. If the fluid contains solids, the valve design should prevent blockages.
Considering these factors ensures the right lift check valve is selected, enhancing system performance and preventing operational issues.
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