Your Complete Guide to Valve Pipeline Usage

Valves: We all benefit from them and we all use them, even if we don’t know it.

But do you know why we use them, or why they are necessary? There are
many different kinds of valves, and each has a different purpose and use.

Here, we will guide you through the world of valve pipeline connections!

But first, what are valves, and what are they used for?

What Are Valves?

Valves are important components of a pipeline system used to control the rate and
speed of flow, as well as the pressure of various contents such as oil, gas, or some
other liquid.

So, what does a valve look like? Pipeline valves typically are much bigger than the
pipe itself, and will usually stick out of the ground. Regulations require that valves get
placed in locations that will minimize any environmental or other impacts in the event
of pipeline issues or failure.

To put it more plainly, pipeline valves must get placed in locations that make sense
and placed in such a way that anticipates a worst case scenario pipeline issue.

Valves are typically utilized for maintenance purposes. For example, when a valve is
located in a well-placed location, it can reduce the amount of oil or other fluid that
gets spilled in an emergency or pipeline issue.

Valves serve a great purpose in terms of safety and the smooth operation of a pipeline,
as they are normally incorporated into an overarching control system in order to make
sure the pipeline valves are operating smoothly and safely.

However, each valve on a pipeline also serves to make the pipeline more complex,
and can actually at times be a liability if the valve is unreliable or prone to leakage.

Maintenance of Valves

Valves must be maintained regularly, especially pipeline valves.

Pipelines use a wide array of valves to control fluids both on and below the surface, so
most pipeline operators have preventative and repair policies for the valves in order to
ensure the valves longevity and its continued operation.

Some maintenance can be completed at the site where the valve is on the pipeline,
while other more complex or difficult repairs must be done in a shop.

Valve Pipeline Types

There are various types of valves for pipelines. Here is an outline of a few of the more
common ones:

Gate Valves

These are the most common type of valve around. They are used to start or stop the
flow of liquid. In practice, these valves are either wide open or completely shut. These
valves are great for shutoff. Gate valves come in different styles for different
purposes.

Globe Valves

These can control and regulate the flow of liquid. These are utilized in systems that
require good control over the flow. They are also excellent for shutoffs but are
normally more expensive than gate valves.

Check Valves

These work to stop any backflow in a pipeline system. Fluid passing through the line
opens up a check valve, but if the flow starts going the other way, the backward flow
closes the valve.

Butterfly Valves

These stop or start flow, and regulate it as well. These valves are compact and
lightweight, requiring less space in comparison to valves that do similar actions.

Needle Valves

These are similar in design to a globe valve, the main difference between the two
being the sharp needle that gives precise control of flow.

Pressure Relief Valves

These are used to protect a pipeline system during high-pressure events or when a
vacuum occurs. The valves release the pressure to a point that would have been
determined upon installation, so it is not just a complete release of pressure. There are
different relief valves for different purposes.

More On Valves, Fittings and More

We hope you found this information on valve pipeline connections helpful.

If you still have questions about all things valve & fittings, feel free to reach out to us.
We would be happy to assist you.