How Globe Valves Work in Industrial Applications

Industries must maintain consistency in flow pressure to maintain equilibrium, especially in fast-paced operations. They cannot simply install ordinary valves randomly, as each factor is essential. When you need valves to regulate flow, never forget globe valves. This is what industries, especially those in the steam, chemical, oil, and gas sectors, look for. The industrial valves that have a significant impact on fluid and gas regulation are none other than globe valves. Here is what you can learn more about by understanding the science behind it.

The Science Behind the Success of Globe Valves

What makes these valves a suitable and precise choice for some industries is their functionality. Globe valve function is entirely based on throttling, which leads to precise flow regulation. Before you read about it, here is how it works. 

The handle controls the movement of the stem, which lifts and pushes the disk to stop and allow the flow to resume. It is simple, but it has a complex internal flow path. The disk applies pressure to stop the flow between the valve's inlet and outlet. But how do you know the flow direction of a globe valve? Well, there is an arrow embossed on the body, which helps the industries select the direction of valves. Then they receive the proper response, as it is the foundation of an efficient valve system.

Throttling Functions in Steam and Chemical Industries

The most eccentric globe valve’s function is throttling. It separates it from other types of industrial valves. You can’t do such throttling in any other valve because of the core difference between their and globe valves. Throttling is possible in it without any fear of turbulence. Turbulence occurs when there is a sudden closure of the valve, but the case is different in the globe type. Its disk gradually applies pressure to reduce the flow and even stop it completely. Steam and chemical industries heavily rely on this function to adjust the flow of steam and liquid in the valves.

Isolation and Bypassing in Steam System Maintenance

When industries need to perform isolation for maintenance work, they must shut off the flow entirely on the required side. They bypass by completely shutting off the valve, eliminating any chance of leakage. This is what isolation is in the valve system. No chemical could mix with another as long as the valve is shut off. A globe valve offers a major advantage in steam system maintenance.

Tortuous Flow Path and Ease in Flow Regulation

Here is the reason why the steam and chemical industries choose the globe valve. It is its tortuous flow path, which makes the flow change its direction. There is a significant difference between the flow rate when it enters the valve and when it leaves the valve. There is a turn inside the valve that makes the pressure drop. Here is a common question people ask: “Can you reverse the flow in a globe valve? No, it will cause disruption and damage to the valve. The reason is the internal structure and the design of the flow path, which has an inlet and outlet support. One can not just randomly install it because it is a unidimensional valve. 

Are Globe Valves Directional? 

Here is a similar question that is often asked about the direction of the globe valve. Yes, it is a directional valve because it has a fixed inlet and outlet. One has to look at the arrow embossed on it. Globe Valves are unidirectional valves that allow flow from one end and release from the other, and these ends cannot be switched. If you do that, there will be adverse outcomes. The central globe valve function will be compromised because it is in the wrong direction.

Why Do Some Industries Specifically Prefer Globe Valves?

The only reason behind it is the core globe valve function, which is throttling. To regulate the flow, you need a valve that has a throttling function. You can then easily adjust the flow rate for precise results in the steam and chemical industries. Besides, the oil and gas industries also heavily rely on globe valves. They are the industrial valves that prevent turbulence in the shut-off system. Most types can not provide throttling, which is a challenge for industries in various applications. Therefore, they need globe valves for this purpose.

Disadvantages of Globe Valve

There is only one disadvantage, which stands against multiple globe valve functions. This disadvantage is a significant pressure drop. Due to its tortuous flow path, the pressure drops significantly. It affects overall performance, and some industries must use automatic pressure machines to maintain consistent pressure. It involves the industrial energy consumption rate because more energy is required to recover the lost pressure. 

Which Valve Creates More Pressure Drop?

Again, a globe valve has the disadvantage of pressure drop. While it offers throttling unlike other types of valves, it also causes a significant pressure drop in the system. However, the advantages it provides overshadow its only disadvantage. 

Which is Better Between a Globe Valve and a Gate Valve?

Both appear similar from the outside, but are significantly different in function. A gate valve is a bidirectional valve, while a globe valve is a unidirectional valve. Globe valves are known for their throttling capabilities, while gate valves are not. These key differences include completely different flow paths of both valves, which affect their overall performance. 

Are the Choke Valve and Angle Globe Valve the Same?

No, they appear similar but have different structures and functions. Both have cross-sectional flow paths, but the difference lies in the rate of pressure drop. Angle globe valve results in high pressure drops. Both industrial valves offer similar performance, but their applications are different. It will be a bad idea to consider them replacements for each other. Besides, choke valves are prone to cavitation and erosion.

Conclusion

Steam and chemical industries must be exact in flow control due to their high sensitivity. They need industrial valves that can offer flow regulation in a precise way. What could be better than a globe valve for this application? This is where globe valves show their accuracy in throttling and tight sealing. Their tortuous flow path enables them to regulate the flow and maintain a high shut-off without facing turbulence. However, there is only one issue, and that is a significant pressure drop. Yes, globe valves overshadow their only disadvantage with multiple advantages.