The difference and selection between electric wafer butterfly valves and electric flange butterfly valves
Electric wafer butterfly valves and electric flange butterfly valves are both types of butterfly valves used in various industrial applications to control the flow of fluids. They have some differences in design and installation, and the choice between the two depends on specific requirements and preferences.
Design and Installation:
Electric Wafer Butterfly Valves: These valves are designed to fit between flanges in a pipeline, with their faces sandwiched between the flanges. They have a compact and lightweight design, making them suitable for applications with limited space. Wafer butterfly valves do not have a flange on the outer edges, and they rely on the flanges of the adjoining pipes to support and secure them in the system. They are generally less expensive compared to flange butterfly valves.
Electric Flange Butterfly Valves: These valves have integral flanges on their outer edges, allowing them to be directly bolted to flanged pipes or equipment without requiring a separate set of flanges. This design provides a more robust connection and enhances the valve's stability. Flange butterfly valves are commonly used in applications where a more secure and rigid installation is required, or when the piping system does not have flanges already present.
Installation and Maintenance:
Electric Wafer Butterfly Valves: Installation of wafer butterfly valves is generally easier and quicker due to their compact design and lighter weight. However, their installation requires that the pipeline has flanges on either side to attach the valve securely.
Electric Flange Butterfly Valves: While installation may be slightly more complex, flange butterfly valves offer a more robust connection due to their integral flanges. They do not rely on the presence of additional flanges in the pipeline, making them suitable for systems where flanges are not already present.
Application and Usage: Both types of butterfly valves are used for similar applications and perform the same function of controlling the flow of fluids. The choice between them depends on factors like the system's design, available space, installation requirements, and budget considerations.
In summary, the main differences between electric wafer butterfly valves and electric flange butterfly valves lie in their design, installation process, and connection method. Electric wafer butterfly valves are more compact, lightweight, and less expensive, but they require the presence of flanges on either side of the valve. Electric flange butterfly valves, on the other hand, have integral flanges and offer a more robust connection, making them suitable for systems without existing flanges or where a more secure installation is needed. Ultimately, the selection between the two depends on the specific needs of the application.
