Plug valves, which are widely used in the control of industrial liquid and gas flows, are one of the valve types that attract attention with their simple structure and reliable performance. These products, also known as “plug valves”, are frequently preferred especially in process lines with their fast opening and closing features. So, what is a plug valve, how does it work and where is it used?
Plug Valve Description
Plug valve is a type of valve with a rotatable conical or cylindrical plug in the body. Inside this plug is a hole that allows the passage of fluid. By rotating the plug 90 degrees inside the body, the passage of the fluid is either opened or completely blocked.
That is, the plug valve is fully open or fully closed in one quarter-turn.
How does it work?
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When parallel to the flow line , the valve is open.
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When the plug is rotated 90° , the orifice cuts the flow line and the valve closes.
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Thanks to this simple operating principle, it is possible to control the flow very quickly.
Plug Valve Types
Plug valves are produced in different types according to the application area:
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Konik plug vana
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Yağlı (lubricated) plug vana
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Metal seated plug valve
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Multi-way plug valve ( 3-way, 4-way)
Advantages
- Fast on-off feature
- Compact design
- High sealing capability
- Providing flow control in different directions ( multipath options)
- Construction suitable for corrosive environments
Plug Valve Usage Areas
| Sector | Usage Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical and Petrochemical | Safe routing ofacidic and corrosive fluids |
| Natural Gas and Oil | Fast and leak-proof flow control ingas transmission lines |
| Water and Wastewater Management | Guidance on inlet and outlet lines in treatment plants |
| Power Plants | Safe valve solution in boiler feed systems or steam lines |
| Food and Beverage Industry | Controlled fluid flow in processes requiringhygienic design |
| Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology | Precise and reliable liquid control insterile environments |
3-Way and 4-Way Plug Valve Applications
Apart fromstandard two-way valves, multi-way plug valves are used to change the direction of flow or manage multiple outlets. Especially incomplex process lines, switching between multiple lines with a single valve saves both space and cost. For example, a 3-way plug valve can allow a fluid to be routed to two different outlet lines. This flexibility is especially useful when integrated with automation systems.
Plug Valve Maintenance and Service Ease
Another advantage of plug valves is that they are relatively easy to maintain. In many models, the internal parts of the valve can be intervened without disassembling the valve on the line. In lubricated type valves, valve life can be extended by lubricating the sealing surfaces over time. Easy replacement of sealing elements reduces production losses and allows less system downtime. These features mean time and cost savings for maintenance teams.
Evaluation
Plug valves are an indispensable flow control solution in process systems thanks to their durable body structure, easy maintenance advantage and fast response time. It is especially preferred in lines where high sealing is required and frequent opening and closing is performed. To choose the right plug valve for your application, the right product should be determined according to pressure, temperature and fluid type.
As Valve.tr, we are pleased to offer technical support for plug valve solutions specific to your needs.
