In the realm of power plants, the generation of electric power involves intricate processes. Steam plants, equipped with fossil-fuel-powered high-speed turbines, are the norm. Gate valves emerge as the preferred choice for on/off applications in power plants, surpassing alternatives like Y-pattern globe valves.
Challenging the dominance of linear valves, high-performance critical-service ball valves are gaining traction. The demanding nature of power plant operations necessitates robust valve designs capable of withstanding the relentless combination of cycling, temperature fluctuations, and high pressures.
In the oil and gas sector, where wells and production facilities demand heavy-duty valves, the emphasis is on managing extreme pressures. Christmas trees, positioned atop wellheads, utilize valves and special fittings to handle pressures exceeding 10,000 psi, particularly in deep offshore wells.
Beyond wellheads, gas and oil fields incorporate various valves in their infrastructure. Process equipment, including valves crafted from carbon steel, caters to the treatment and pre-treatment of gas and oil, ensuring efficient operations.
In the mining and metals industry, netflow valves stand out as superior severe-service valves. Renowned for their exceptional strength, maintenance-free operation, and extended lifespan, these valves offer unparalleled customization. The use of self-lapping, rotating-disc technology ensures each valve is uniquely designed to meet precise operational needs.
Wastewater industries rely on valves to collect and direct waste solids and fluids to sewage treatment plants. Check valves and iron gates, adhering to AWWA specifications, prove popular for their functionality in low-pressure piping, where lenient requirements prevail compared to clean water systems.
In chemical industries, where exposure to corrosive substances is a constant challenge, valve selection becomes critical. Control valves, designed to endure acidic, corrosive, abrasive, and hazardous conditions, are essential to maintaining exacting standards in manufacturing processes.
Offshore production facilities and oil rigs face unique flow control challenges. Valves, built to varied specifications, ensure seamless operations in piping systems at considerable depths. Ball and check valves, among others, cater to the stringent requirements of offshore environments.
Steam, a vital source of heat and energy, finds extensive use in industrial and chemical processes. Steam valves play a crucial role in controlling pressure levels, facilitating applications like building heating, mechanical energy supply, and temperature and pressure control.
Valves in the pulp and paper industry operate in corrosive and erosive conditions, handling high pressures and temperatures. Their resilience is crucial, considering factors like pulp splashing, vibrations, pressure shocks, and impurities.
In the marine industry, valves are indispensable for power generation, wastewater management, HVAC control, and various onboard tasks. The durability and reliability of marine valves become paramount due to the lack of resources once at sea.
Pipelines, both underground and underwater, incorporate essential valves for safety and maintenance. Emergency shutoff valves, strategically placed, enable isolation of pipeline sections. Pipeline facilities, including launch equipment stations, utilize ball or gate valves, ensuring full-opening capability for inspection and cleaning processes.
Petroleum refineries, with extensive piping networks, rely on valves for critical equipment isolation and process flow control. The performance of these valves directly impacts process integrity, plant safety, and production volume.