Selection begins with matching materials and seals to the slurry's characteristics: 304 stainless steel with PTFE seals is suitable for mildly corrosive or low-abrasion slurries; 316L stainless steel with hardened valve cores and fluoroelastomer seals is appropriate for highly corrosive or abrasive slurries; and high-viscosity slurries require large-bore flow paths with polyurethane seals to minimize adhesion and clogging.
Next, the valve must be matched to pipeline and operating parameters. Nominal pressure ratings should be selected based on pipeline pressure while allowing for a safety margin, and the nominal bore size should correspond to the pipeline diameter to prevent particle accumulation. Common pressure ratings include 0.6 MPa, 1.0 MPa, and 1.6 MPa, with an applicable temperature range of 0°C to +80°C.
The installation environment dictates the choice of connection method: wafer-style connections are suitable for confined spaces, while flanged connections are preferred for applications requiring long-term, stable operation. Wafer-style valves offer a compact, lightweight design with low flow resistance, helping to prevent media accumulation within the valve.
The actuation method should be selected based on operating frequency. Electric or pneumatic actuators (equipped with overload protection) are suitable for frequent cycling, whereas manual operation is appropriate for models featuring a labor-saving worm gear mechanism. Electric actuators typically require a 380V three-phase AC power supply, a 220V control circuit, and an operating temperature range of -20°C to +60°C.
For sanitary applications-such as in the food and pharmaceutical industries-the flow path must be free of dead zones and comply with GMP or FDA standards. Valves can be manufactured according to various domestic and international standards, including China's GB and JB (Machinery Industry) standards, as well as API/ANSI (US), DIN (German), and JIS (Japanese) standards.
The selection process involves three steps: determining slurry characteristics, matching operational parameters, and addressing specific application details.
