Where Should A Swing Check Valve Be Installed?

A swing check valve should be installed in a horizontal pipeline with the hinge pin positioned at the top for optimal performance. 

This orientation allows gravity to assist in closing the valve when flow reverses, prevents backflow, and reduces the risk of water hammer. 

It ensures the valve operates smoothly and effectively seals when needed.

To learn more about swing check valve installation tips, continue reading the article.

What is a swing check valve?

A swing check valve is a type of valve designed to allow fluid to flow in one direction while preventing backflow. 

It features a hinged disc that swings open with forward flow and closes automatically when flow reverses, making it ideal for applications where backflow prevention is essential.

Can check valves be installed vertically?

Yes, check valves, including swing check valves, can be installed vertically but only when the flow is directed upwards. 

Vertical installation with downward flow is not recommended, as it can cause the valve to remain open, defeating its purpose and potentially leading to water hammer and valve damage.

Swing Check Valve Installation Tips

Swing check valves are essential components used in piping systems to prevent backflow. 

Proper installation is crucial to ensure their effective operation and longevity. Here’s where and how swing check valves should ideally be installed:

Horizontal Installation

The most recommended orientation for a swing check valve is horizontal. 

In this position, the hinge pin must be oriented at the top, allowing the valve disc to swing open with the flow of fluid and close when the flow stops. 

This setup optimizes performance by enabling gravity to assist in closing the valve when reverse flow occurs, ensuring a reliable seal and preventing backflow.

Vertical Installation

Swing check valves can also be installed vertically, but only when the flow is directed upwards. 

This vertical installation is suitable for applications where fluid moves up through the piping system. 

In this orientation, the valve disc swings open with the upward flow and closes when the flow stops or reverses, aided by gravity. 

However, it is not recommended to install swing check valves in a vertical line with the flow going downward. 

This orientation could cause the valve disc to remain open, defeating its purpose of preventing backflow and potentially leading to a water hammer, which can damage both the valve and the piping system.

Avoid Downward Flow Installation

Installing swing check valves in vertical lines with downward flow is generally discouraged. 

In such cases, gravity does not assist in closing the valve; instead, it may force the valve disc to remain partially or fully open, reducing the valve’s effectiveness in preventing backflow. 

Moreover, the valve disc could slam shut when the flow stops, causing water hammer and potential damage to the valve and associated piping.

Consider Clearance Requirements

Whether installed horizontally or vertically (with upward flow), adequate clearance around the valve is necessary to allow the disc to swing freely without obstructions. 

Generally, a clearance of 1 to 2 pipe diameters around the valve is recommended to ensure smooth operation and avoid flow restrictions.