Valves are common components in industry today. Check, or one-way valves are used for fluid and pneumatic systems. For example, your operation may use vacuum check valve and hydraulic valves. Here are some of the many benefits these valves have to offer.
What Are One-Way Valves?
The term “one-way” means, fluid or air can only flow in one direction. For instance, one of the most common valves is the vacuum check valve. They see use in automotive brake applications, casting processes, and heavy machinery.
A vacuum one-way valve keeps constant pressure in a hydraulic or pneumatic system. It can maintain pressure while molds cool or keep braking systems pressurized. You do not usually see stems or handles on one-way valves. They are designed to work all by themselves without manually turning a handle or using an actuator.
Double Valves
A fluid one-way valve can serve a different purpose than a vacuum check valve. It is commonly used to prevent backflow of liquid in a system. For instance, in municipal water systems, they use double one-way valves to keep contaminants out of the water system. The valve uses two one-way valve assemblies working together. If one fails, the other one takes over.
Advantages
Check valves are cost effective devices for protecting equipment like compressors and pumps because they prevent backflow. Because of their small size, they are great for tight spaces. In some cases, they can save energy by maintaining constant pressure. This can save companies a lot of time and money with downtime issues.
Downside
There are a few downsides to one-way valves. The valves are small and compact and internal parts are concealed so you cannot tell they are working by just looking at them. They can fail during operation, and this could leave equipment vulnerable. However, there are failsafe measures one can take in case of valve failure.
