Description and Working Principle
A motorized butterfly valve consists of a circular disc mounted on a rotating shaft. The valve disc sits in the flow path and rotates to allow, restrict, or stop fluid flow. The motorized actuator (typically electric) turns the disc, enabling remote and automated control. These valves operate on a quarter-turn mechanism: 0 fully closed, 90 fully open. The actuator may also provide modulating control, allowing the valve to operate at intermediate positions for precise flow regulation.
Key Components
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Valve Body: Connects to the pipeline, made from materials like cast iron, stainless steel, or carbon steel.
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Disc: The flow-controlling element, often stainless steel or nickel-plated.
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Shaft/Stem: Connects the disc to the actuator and enables rotation.
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Sealing: Typically rubber, PTFE, or metal seats to prevent leakage when closed.
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Actuator: Electric motor unit that automatically rotates the valve disc. Can include limit switches, positioners, and feedback systems for precise control.
Types of Motorized Butterfly Valves
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Wafer Type: Fits between two flanges, suitable for most pipeline systems.
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Lug Type: Independent flanged connections, allows isolation on one side of the pipeline.
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Double Flanged Type: Bolted to flanges on both sides, suitable for heavy-duty large pipelines.
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High-Performance Valves: Metal-seated or triple-offset designs for high-pressure or high-temperature applications.
Applications
Motorized butterfly valves are widely used in:
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Water and wastewater systems
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HVAC and building services for air and chilled water distribution
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Chemical and process industries
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Food and beverage pipelines
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Power generation plants for cooling water and process flow control
They are suitable for on/off and throttling purposes, especially in automated or remote-controlled systems.
Advantages
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Compact, lightweight, and cost-effective for large pipelines.
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Quick quarter-turn operation reduces wear and response time.
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Remote automation reduces manual labor and enhances system control.
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Can be modulated for precise flow control when coupled with proper actuators and control systems.