What's check valve?
A check valve, also known as a non-return valve or one-way valve, is a mechanical device used to allow fluid or gas to flow in only one direction and prevent backflow. It is designed to automatically open and close in response to the pressure or flow of the fluid or gas.
The check valve consists of a movable disc or a ball that is held against a seat by a spring or its own weight. When the fluid or gas flows in the desired direction, it pushes the disc or ball away from the seat, allowing the flow to pass through the valve. However, when there is a reversal of flow or a decrease in pressure, the disc or ball is forced back against the seat, effectively closing the valve and preventing backflow.
Check valves are commonly used in various industries and applications where the prevention of backflow is crucial. They can be found in plumbing systems, water treatment plants, pumping systems, air compressors, hydraulic systems, and many other fluid or gas handling systems.
The main advantages of check valves include preventing damage to equipment due to backflow, maintaining system efficiency, and reducing the risk of contamination. There are different types of check valves available, such as swing check valves, ball check valves, lift check valves, and diaphragm check valves, each with its own design and application suitability.
