10 Different Types of Butterfly Valves
Last Updated on November 22, 2024
A butterfly valve rotates a disc or flap around a central axis to allow or restrict fluid or gas flow. The types of butterfly valves vary depending on the material and configuration. From wafer valves to robust triple offset ones, each type provides efficient solutions for smooth operation in several industries. They are used in oil and chemical industries, wastewater treatments, and pneumatic systems. This article covers all the types of butterfly valves, their uses, advantages, and disadvantages to help you make an informed decision before buying one.
Types of Butterfly Valves
1. Wafer Butterfly Valve
Wafer type butterfly valves are fitted in two pipe flanges and hold the valve using bolts. They are compact, lightweight, and cost-effective. Wafer butterfly valves are used in various industries because they fit into most flanges.
Advantage
- It is easy to install and remove.
- It is cost-effective.
- It requires minimal space.
Disadvantages
- Its maintenance is difficult.
2. Lug Butterfly Valve
Lug-type butterfly valves have threaded lugs around the valve body for secure installation. These valves are directly bolted between the flanges. Lug butterfly valves are suitable for end-of-line service. They are widely used in oil and gas, chemical, and water treatment plants.
Advantages
- It can effectively isolate different sections of the pipe.
- It can handle high-pressure applications.
Disadvantages
- They are slightly bulkier than wafer valves.
3. Double Flanged Butterfly Valve
This type of butterfly valve has flanges on both sides, providing extra support and a secure connection to the pipeline. Double flanged valves are highly durable and stable. It is used in industrial pipelines, power plants, and marine systems.
Advantages
- It is ideal for high-pressure applications.
- It is suitable for heavy-duty applications.
- It can provide zero leakage.
Disadvantages
- It is expensive and heavier.
4. Triple Offset Butterfly Valve
The triple offset type of butterfly valve is designed for critical applications requiring zero leakage.
Advantages
- It is suitable for metal-to-metal sealing.
- It has a high possibility of zero leakage.
- It is suitable for extreme temperature and pressure applications.
Disadvantages
- It is expensive and has a complex design.
5. Double Offset Butterfly Valve
This type of butterfly valve has two offsets, one in the shaft and the second in the disc. The offsets move the disc away from the seat from the centerline, reducing operation friction. Double offset butterfly valves are suitable for applications requiring frequent operation. It is commonly used in chemical industries, gas pipelines, and HVAC systems.
Advantages
- It provides a smooth operation.
- It has a longer lifespan than single-offset valves.
Disadvantages
- These are costlier than basic butterfly valves.
6. Clamp Butterfly Valve
This valve works by rotating a disc in a clamped body. The disc opens and closes with the flow. The clamp allows quick assembly and disassembly, making them ideal for sanitary systems. Clamp butterfly valves are also used in food processing and the pharmaceutical industry.
Advantages
- It is easy to maintain and clean.
- It is ideal for hygiene-requiring applications.
Disadvantages
- It is limited to low-pressure applications.
7. Manual Butterfly Valve
These butterfly valves are the most basic and are operated manually using a lever or handwheel to control the flow. It is user-friendly and offers precise control over flow. Manual butterfly valves are used in small pipelines and irrigation systems.
Advantages
- It is a cost-effective and reliable valve.
- It requires no external power.
Disadvantages
- It is not ideal for large or remote systems.
8. Zero Offset Butterfly Valve
In this type of butterfly valve, the disc is concentrically aligned with the valve body and stem to regulate flow. Zero offset butterfly valves have a symmetrical design, making them suitable for uniform flow applications. It is widely used in water treatment systems and low-pressure applications.
Advantages
- It is cost-effective and easy to install.
- It requires minimal maintenance.
Disadvantages
- It is prone to wear under high pressure.
9. Rubber Lined Butterfly Valves
Rubber lined means the body of the valve has a rubber lining, and the disc rotates around it. The advantage of the lining is that it prevents leakage and corrosion. It is one of the most suitable types of butterfly valves used to handle abrasive or corrosive materials.
Advantages
- It has enhanced sealing due to rubber lining.
- It is highly resistant to corrosion and abrasion.
- It offers versatile applications for industrial use.
Disadvantages
- It is not suitable for very high-temperature applications.
10. Plastic Lined Butterfly Valves
Just like rubber lined butterfly valves, plastic lined butterfly valves have a plastic-coated body and disc. The disc rotated within the plastic lining, offering resistance to chemicals and corrosion. It is used in chemical processing plants and lightweight pipelines.
Advantage
- It has low maintenance requirements and is cost-effective.
- It is ideal for handling corrosive liquids.
Disadvantages
- It is not suitable for high-pressure applications.
Conclusion
The different types of butterfly valves include wafer, lug, double offset, triple offset, double flange, clamp, and zero offset butterfly valves. There are rubber lined and plastic lined butterfly valves also based on the lining material around the valve. All of these valves are used in various industries, such as oil and gas, chemical, and pneumatic systems. By understanding the butterfly valve types, you can make the right choice for your business for the best outcome.
FAQs
Before buying a butterfly valve, you must consider the following factors: The fluid characteristics to be handled, application, pressure and temperature requirements, size of the valve, material of construction, and budget of the project or business.
Butterfly valves are commonly used in hydroelectric power stations, the oil & gas industry, the chemical industry, pneumatic systems, etc. They control the flow of liquid and gas in a system.
The most common materials used to construct butterfly valves are carbon steel and cast iron.
