What Are Diaphragm Valves?Diaphragm valves were created to function for various manufacturing applications and adapted later for use in other industries (such as biopharmaceuticals). This type of valve gets its name from the flexible disc (diaphragm) within the valve that comes into contact with a seat located at the top of the valve body to form a seal. They can be both automated and manual, and, in many cases, diaphragm valves are often a type of shut-off valve. What Are the Main Type of Diaphragm Valves?There are two primary types of diaphragm valves: valves which seal over the weir (or saddle) and valves which seal over a seat (known as a straight-way valve). Saddle, or weir, valve options are most frequently used in process applications, while the straight-way option is more commonly used for reducing blockage issues. Both have very similar constructions beyond the configuration of the body and diaphragm. What Are the Advantages Of Using Diaphragm Valves? Diaphragm valves offer a wide variety of advantages, including:• Leak resistance• Less contamination of environment• Repairs which do not interrupt service• Simple maintenance• Tight shut-off• Easy to clean What Are the Disadvantages of Using Diaphragm Valves? Although there are plenty of advantages to choosing diaphragm valves, there are also some disadvantages to these type of valves.
They include but are not limited to:• Capable for use only in moderate pressures (roughly 300 PSI)• Caustic-resistant material body required• Not able to use in multi-turn operations• No standard industry dimensions• Only able to use at comparatively moderate temperatures (from temperatures ranging from -60 degrees to 450 degrees Fahrenheit) What Are the Main Diaphragm Material Types? A variety of materials are used to construct diaphragm valves.
