Flow control with Non-return valves

Non-return valves are crucial components for industrial process control. They are designed to control the direction of a flow of gas or liquid so that it moves in a specific direction, preventing backflow or backsiphonage.

One of the most important functions of non-return valves is to protect against backflow. If a sudden pressure drop occurs in the pipeline, it can result in a backflow of liquid or gas in the opposite direction, which can lead to damage to equipment and even danger to personnel. Non-return valves prevent this backflow by closing automatically when the flow in the pipeline starts moving in the opposite direction.

Non-return valves are also effective in controlling the flow of liquids and gas in a system. They can be set to open and close at specific pressure levels, making it possible to control and regulate the flow of material through the pipeline.

Types, use and areas of application

It is important to choose the right type and size of non-return valve for the specific application to ensure proper operation. They can be mounted vertically or horizontally, depending on the application and installation. Non-return valves are installed in piping systems in places where it is important to prevent backflow.

At Alfotech we are able to supply 3-part and Compact non-return valves, as well as non-return valves in connection with dairy pipe installations, such as our spring-loaded LKC-2 and AWH non-return valves. This means you can find non-return valves that are suitable for handling food and aggressive chemicals.

The various fields of application of our non-return valves include, among others:

Water systems
Gas pipelines
Cooling systems
Pharmaceutical and food industries

Benefits of using non-return valves

There are several benefits to having non-return valves installed in a pipeline. Some of these benefits include:

Improving safety: Non-return valves allow flow in one direction and close immediately when the flow reverses. This helps to improve the safety of a piping system by preventing potentially hazardous substances from flowing back and causing dangerous situations. In addition, the pipeline and its components are also protected from damage.
Reducing the risk of water hammer: By preventing backflow, non-return valves also prevent the risk of water hammer, which can damage the pipeline and its components. Water hammer occurs when a moving fluid suddenly changes speed or direction in a piping system, which can cause a pressure surge or a high-pressure shock wave. Water hammer can cause significant damage to the piping system and its components, including deformation, rupture or cracking of the pipes and associated equipment.
Optimizing piping systems: Non-return valves make it possible to optimize a piping system so that it operates more efficiently and reliably.
High beverage quality: Non-return valves are often used to maintain high standards of beverage quality by protecting the system from contamination from backwashing of undesirable substances.
Safe installation: the implementation of non-return valves ensures a reliable installation that reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns.

How are non-return valves used and in which situations?

Non-return valves are often used in pipelines carrying drinking water as they ensure that the water is not contaminated by, for example, chemicals or bacteria from backflowing liquids. They come in a multitude of different variants and dimensions, making them suitable for numerous applications. They can also be used in industrial production to protect machinery and equipment against damage from backflow of liquids or gases. Alfotech can supply non-return valves for dairy pipes to protect your dairy products and equipment against backflowing liquids and damage.

In addition, non-return valves can be used in connection with vacuum pumps, where they ensure that the pump operates only in the desired direction and does not suck contaminated air into the system. Non-return valves can also be relevant in applications such as steam systems or compressors, where backflow can cause damage to the equipment.

Alfotech non-return valves can be used for various purposes, such as the following:

Liquid
Gas
Steam
Ammonia
Air

Considerations when choosing a non-return valve at Alfotech

When faced with the choice of installing a non-return valve in your system, it is essential to carry out a comprehensive assessment of the system in question. It is important to understand that non-return valves are designed to provide a high level of safety by protecting the system against backflow, but at the same time can lead to a certain degree of pressure loss.

Therefore, several factors need to be considered, including the risk of water hammer, acceptable pressure loss and the economic impact of selecting a non-return valve with too high a safety margin for backflow. Careful analysis of these factors can help to make the right choice and ensure that the non-return valve protects the system properly.

When selecting non-return valves for your piping systems, it is important to choose the right type that is suitable for your specific application. At Alfotech, we have more than 35 years of experience in the industry and can offer our expertise and know-how to help you choose the right non-return valves.

Our professional sales team is always available to provide you with advice and guidance to find the best non-return valves to suit your needs. We pride ourselves on offering our customers the best service and high-quality products.

So, if you need help choosing the right non-return valves, you are welcome to contact us by phone +45 7020 0422 or send an e-mail to alfotech@alfotech.dk. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you find the best non-return valves for your needs.