Control valve

A control valve is an externally powered mechanical device used in industrial processes to regulate and control the flow of liquids, gases, or vapors in piping systems. This versatile device allows for the precise adjustment of fluid flow to manage process parameters such as pressure, flow rate, and temperature within an industrial environment. A control valve consists of a fitting connected to an actuator that adjusts the position of the closure member based on the controller signal.

The function of a control valve is to adjust the cross-section between a fixed part (the valve seat) and a moving part (the closure member) to achieve the desired flow rate. This is typically accomplished by adjusting the valve opening using the actuator, which can be powered pneumatically, hydraulically, or electrically (and in rare cases, manually).

Control valves are essential in nearly all industries, including chemicals, petrochemicals, power generation, the food industry, and water and wastewater treatment. They come in various designs, such as globe valves, control butterfly valves, and control ball valves, each tailored to meet the specific requirements of different applications.