What's the Structural Features of Wafer Check Valves?

A wafer check valve is a type of check valve that is designed for use in pipelines to prevent backflow of fluids. It typically has a simple and compact structure. Here are the main structural features of a wafer check valve:

Body Design:

The body of a wafer check valve is generally thin and disc-shaped.

It is designed to fit between two pipeline flanges, making it easy to install and remove.

Disc or Plate:

The valve contains a hinged disc or plate that swings open in the direction of flow and closes to prevent backflow.

The disc is typically lightweight and mounted on a hinge or pivot point.

Hinge Mechanism:

The hinge is located at the top of the disc, allowing it to swing freely in response to changes in flow direction.

The hinge may be a simple pin design or a more complex mechanism depending on the specific valve design.

Sealing Mechanism:

When the flow is in the forward direction, the disc swings open, allowing fluid to pass through.

When there is backflow, the disc swings closed, creating a seal and preventing the reverse flow.

Flange Connections:

Wafer check valves are designed to be sandwiched between two flanges in the pipeline.

The valve is held in place by the compression of the flanges when they are bolted together.

Materials:

Wafer check valves are commonly made of materials such as cast iron, stainless steel, or other alloys, depending on the application and the type of fluids they are meant to handle.

Size Range:

These valves are available in a range of sizes to accommodate different pipeline requirements.

Spring Assistance (Optional):

Some wafer check valves may include a spring mechanism to assist in the closure of the valve, ensuring a quick and positive shut-off.

Dual-Plate Design (Optional):

In some cases, wafer check valves may have a dual-plate design, where two smaller plates replace the single disc, offering improved sealing performance.

Wafer check valves are commonly used in pipelines to prevent backflow. They are designed to allow flow in one direction and automatically close when the flow reverses, preventing any backflow. These valves are particularly useful in applications where space is limited, such as in HVAC systems, water treatment plants, and industrial processes. They are also used in applications where low pressure drop and high flow rates are required. In addition, wafer check valves are often used in combination with other types of valves, such as gate valves and globe valves, to provide additional protection against backflow.