Choose a butterfly valve for better flow control 

Butterfly valves are a type of control valve used to regulate the flow and pressure of liquids, gas and other media in piping systems. They are characterized by a disc that rotates inside a cylindrical body, allowing or preventing the flow of the medium.  

Alfotech supplies stainless steel butterfly valves. Stainless steel is a popular choice as it is resistant to corrosion and erosion, making it suitable for use in aggressive environments with high temperature or chemical compatibility. Butterfly valves are commonly used in process industries such as petrochemical, pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and in many other industries where an easy way to regulate the flow of liquids and gases is needed. 

Types, material and application 

When it comes to sanitary applications, it is important to choose a butterfly valve that is made of materials that are resistant to corrosion and exposure to chemicals. Knowing the type of seat that should be used in a valve is crucial. The seat is the part of the valve where the disc rests when it's closed to create a seal, which ultimately stops the medium from flowing. 

The choice of the suitable gasket, which is also known as the valve seat, depends on the specific demands of the application, including factors such as temperature, pressure, and type of medium. Alfotech offers butterfly valves in stainless steel with gaskets in HNBR, EPDM, Viton and silicone. 

Typical gasket applications: 

HNBR: Often used in the sealing industry due to its high abrasion resistance, tensile strength and low compressive strength. The material is highly resistant to hydraulic fluids, water, alcohols, acids, petroleum-based oils, fuels and silicone grease. It is a strong yet inflexible material. 

EPDM: This rubber is resistant to agents such as acids and alkalis. It is also abrasion resistant and withstands road elements and ozone. EPDM is ideal for processes involving water, alcohols, bleaches, glycols, ketones, phosphates, esters, chlorine and other alkaline solutions. 

VITON: This fluorocarbon rubber is resistant to both heat and chemicals. VITON's chemical properties also make it resistant to both concentrated and diluted mineral acids and hydrocarbon products. VITON is used in applications involving petroleum products, chlorinated hydrocarbons, salt solutions and mineral acids. 

Silicone: Resistant to high temperatures, as silicone rubber is highly heat resistant. Resistant to oxygen, oil, ozone, weather, chemicals and environmental stresses. The silicone even provides a water-repellent surface. 

Important considerations when installing butterfly valves 

When it comes to installing butterfly valves, it is important to ensure that the process is carried out correctly and safely. Always check the material of the butterfly valve, seat and disc before installing the butterfly valve. Check that there are no faults caused by storage or transport. Additionally, it is important to verify that the pressure rating of the valve aligns with the needs of the application.  

Installation: butterfly valves can be installed in any orientation, however it is best if they are mounted in an upright position, especially for larger valves, to reduce the load on the shaft.  

Make sure that the installation site is clean and free of any obstacles that could impede installation. Also make sure that the pipes or hoses connecting to the valve are correctly sized and adjusted. 

Secure the valve to the mounting flange using the appropriate bolts and nuts. Make sure the valve is evenly tightened, but avoid overtightening as this may damage the valve. 

Connect the tubes or hoses to the valve and secure them using suitable clamps or welds. Make sure that the connections are tight and free of leaks. 

After installation, check the valve for any leaks. Also make sure that the valve works properly and that its position can be changed without problems. 

Advantages of using butterfly valves 

Butterfly valves have several advantages, including: 

  • Easy to operate: One significant advantage of butterfly valves is their ease of operation. Their simple design allows the user to open and close the flow of the medium with a single movement. This is particularly useful in situations where quick response and easy access are essential.

  • High reliability: Their simple design makes them resistant to failure and damage.

  • Economical decision: By investing in quality butterfly valves, you can save considerable amounts of money and take the environment into account. Alfotech supplies only high-quality butterfly valves, which guarantee long-lasting operation with minimal maintenance and only require gasket replacement.

  • Sturdiness: Stainless steel butterfly valves are manufactured to be resistant to damage, wear and corrosion. 

Add value with a custom solution from Alfotech 

Alfotech can provide customized solutions to meet your specific needs and ensure that you receive the products that are best suited for your requirements. In addition to supplying butterfly valves with manual handles, we are also able to supply butterfly valves with actuators.  

If you have any doubts about which solution is right for you, contact our professional sales team. They are always available for advice and guidance on phone +45 702 00 422 and e-mail alfotech@alfotech.dk.