Automatic valve
The Complete Guide to High-Quality Automatic Valves
Automatic valves are essential components in modern industrial systems, offering precise control of fluid flow without manual intervention. Our automatic valves are engineered for durability, efficiency and reliability across various applications including water treatment, oil & gas, chemical processing and HVAC systems.
Key Product Parameters
Standard Specifications:
- Material: Stainless Steel 304/316 (standard), other alloys available
- Pressure Rating: 150psi to 3000psi options
- Temperature Range: -40°F to 450°F (-40°C to 232°C)
- Connection Types: Flanged, threaded, socket weld, butt weld
- Actuation Types: Solenoid, pneumatic, hydraulic, electric motor
- Response Time: Typically 0.5-5 seconds depending on size
- Certifications: API 6D, ASME B16.34, ISO 9001 compliant
| Series | Size Range | Max Pressure | Body Material | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AV-100 | 1/2" - 4" | 1500 psi | SS316 | Explosion-proof option |
| AV-200 | 2" - 12" | 750 psi | Carbon Steel | High flow coefficient |
| AV-300 | 1/4" - 2" | 3000 psi | Duplex Steel | Corrosion resistant |
Automatic Valve FAQs
Q: What maintenance is required for automatic valves?
A: Automatic valves typically require minimal maintenance. We recommend quarterly inspections checking for leaks, proper actuator function, and lubrication of moving parts (if specified). For our AV-100 series with polymer seals, inspect seals annually in normal conditions or every 6 months in abrasive service.
Q: How do I select the right automatic valve size?
A: Valve sizing depends on flow requirements (Cv value), pressure drop limitations, and pipe diameter. Our engineers can help calculate the optimal size based on your system's flow rate (GPM), fluid properties, and pressure conditions. As a rule of thumb, the valve should match the pipe diameter unless flow control requirements dictate otherwise.
Q: Can automatic valves fail in the open or closed position?
A: Our automatic valves feature fail-safe designs that can be configured to fail open or closed depending on safety requirements. The default position (with loss of power/air) is specified during ordering. For hazardous services, we recommend failsafe closed. All our solenoid valves include manual override capability for emergency operation.
Advanced Technical Specifications
| Parameter | AV-100 | AV-200 | AV-300 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flow Coefficient (Cv) | 4.5-28 | 45-210 | 0.8-12 |
| Leakage Rate | Class IV | Class VI | Class V |
| Power Requirements | 24VDC/120VAC | Pneumatic 40-120psi | 24VDC/220VAC |
| Cycle Life | 1,000,000+ | 500,000+ | 2,000,000+ |
For critical applications, our automatic valves can be customized with position indicators, limit switches, emergency manual overrides and smart positioning capabilities that integrate with industrial control systems. The AV-300 series features our patented anti-cavitation trim for high pressure drop services.
Installation Guidelines
- Install valves with proper upstream/downstream straight run (10D/5D minimum)
- Support piping properly to avoid stress on valve body
- For vertical installation, ensure actuator is properly supported
- Verify compatibility with process media (consult chemical resistance charts)
Q: What's the lead time for custom automatic valves?
A: Standard automatic valves ship within 5-7 business days. Custom configurations (special materials, actuation packages or certifications) typically require 3-6 weeks. Expedited manufacturing is available for urgent requirements with a 25% surcharge for 2-week delivery.
Q: Can automatic valves handle slurry or abrasive media?
A: Our AV-200HD series features hardened trim and tungsten carbide coatings specifically for abrasive service. For slurry applications, we recommend full-port ball valves or pinch valves rather than traditional globe-style automatic valves. Always specify the particle size and concentration when ordering.
Q: What diagnostics are available for smart automatic valves?
A: Our i-Valve series includes built-in diagnostics monitoring: cycle count, operating hours, torque profiles, and seal wear indicators. Data is accessible through HART, Foundation Fieldbus or Modbus protocols. Predictive maintenance alerts can be configured for abnormal operating conditions like excessive actuation time.
Applications
Automatic valves serve critical functions across industries:
- Water Treatment: Precise chemical dosing control
- Oil & Gas: Safety shutdown systems
- Pharmaceutical: Sterile process isolation
- Power Generation: Feedwater control
- Manufacturing: Process automation
Our engineering team provides application-specific recommendations considering factors like media compatibility, pressure spikes, temperature extremes and required fail-safe actions. For hazardous area installations, we offer ATEX and IECEx certified automatic valves with intrinsically safe controls.