Plug Valve
A plug valve is one that is used to control the flow of a fluid through a pipe by the rotation of its cylindrical plugs from inside. The plugs here have a hollow passage through them. This passage allows passage of fluids when the valve is opened. The good thing with plug valves is that they are simple to operate as well as they are affordable. A common feature in these valves is that they lack the bonnets. Rather, the plug valves come with their handle on the end of the plug exposed from outside. In most cases, the handle and the stem come as single piece thus absence of a stem. It is mainly fixed as an L-shaped handle for such a plug valve. On the contrary, the opposite end comes with a mechanism to retain the plug within the body though it also exposed.
Technical Specifications of Plug Valve :
- Construction: Standard material is high tensile ASTM A126 Class B cast iron. ASTM A536 65-45-12 ductile iron is also available for high temperature applications. Flange thickness, diameter and drilling fully conform to ANSI B16.1 Class 125.
- Cost: Plug valves are usually lower in cost and lighter in weight than comparable gate or globe valves.
- Low Maintenance: Only a small initial injection of sealant, with minimal follow-up sealing, is required for positive shut-off. Minimal quick and easy follow-up sealing assures long lasting service.
- Plug: The single solid-piece plug design features true bi-directional seating and low vibration operation.
- Flow: Various port configurations make them suitable for a wide range of applications.
- Seal: A thin film of sealant not only forms an incompressible seal to prevent gas or liquid leakage, but also reduces friction between the body and plug, offering low torque operation.
- Seat: Metal to metal seating assures long life, with no rubber to wear.
- Testing: Every valve is 100% leak-tested before shipment to ensure reliable shut-off.
- Actuation: Valves are available with lever, manual gear, pneumatic and electric actuation.