Table of Contents
Introduction
A throttle valve is a type of valve that can start, stop, and regulate the flow of fluid from one point to another. Generally, there is a large pressure difference between the upstream and downstream sides of the throttle valve. As the throttle valve flow restriction increases, the pressure loss increases.
Many control methods are used to control this type of valve. Different valves act as throttle valves under different working conditions. In this article, you will learn the basics of throttle valves.
Definition
A throttle valve is a valve used to open, close or regulate the flow of fluid. They are basically control valves, as the throttle valve discs can regulate the flow, temperature or pressure of the fluid medium passing through them.
Symbol of Throttle Valve
Symbolic representation of throttle valve is shown in the below figure.
Throttle Valve Function
In throttle valves, an obstacle is created inside the valve so that parameters such as flow rate, temperature and pressure are available as desired. Flow is subject to designed restrictions and friction that occur during flow. In general, raise or lower the valve stem to adjust the size of the flow path through the valve. You can also completely close the valve to stop the flow.
Some Basic Example of Throttle Valve
Various valves act as throttle valves. Common examples of valves acting as throttle valves are:
- Diaphragm valve
- Butterfly valve
- Ball valve
- Globe valve
- Pinch valve
- Needle valve, etc
The control valve is a special throttle valve. However, not all throttle valves are control valves.
Applications of throttle valves
Throttle valves are used in many different industries. Some of the most common applications of throttle valves are:
- air conditioner
- steam applications
- Chemical use
- Application to pharmaceuticals
- fuel oil system
- high temperature applications
- Food processing applications
- automotive system
- power generation system
- measuring system
- cooling system
Popular Valves Used as a Throttle Valve
Not all industrial valves are butterfly valves. The valve design must be suitable for use as a throttle valve. Valves commonly used as throttle valves are:
1. Globe valve:
Globe valve is he one of the most popular throttle valve in industrial applications. The straightway valve’s disc/cone provides the required restriction as a throttle valve so that only the required amount of medium flows. However, isolation valves require electric or automatic actuators for high pressure applications. advertisement
2. Butterfly valve:
Butterfly valves are ideal for throttling applications as they can be easily created by opening a small amount to allow media to pass through.
3. Gate valve:
Gate valves are generally not suitable for throttling processes.
4. Needle valve:
A needle valve has a needle-like disc that moves to regulate fluid flow. Needle valves are used as throttle valves in high precision applications. Note that thick and viscous media are not suitable for use as throttle valves. pinch valve:
Lightweight, easy-to-service pinch valves are commonly used as restrictors in sterile and hygienic applications. The maximum efficiency is 50% due to the soft lining and smooth walls of the pinch valve.
5. Diaphragm Valve:
Diaphragm valves are suitable throttle valves in moderate temperature and pressure applications.
6. Expansion Valve
Various expansion valves such as manual expansion valves, thermal expansion valves, capillary expansion valves, and floating ball expansion valves are widely used as throttle valves in refrigeration systems.
How to Select Throttle Valves for Specific Use?
Selecting a throttle valve for a specific application is very complicated. There are several parameters that must be thoroughly checked in order to zero the particular valve used as the throttle valve. Some of these parameters that depend on throttle body choice are:
- Pressure drop required
- Required flow control range
- Fluid medium (gas or liquid)
- Design temperature and pressure.
- Throttle purpose
- Valve MOC
- Action required
Closing Thought
A throttle valve is a device installed in an automobile engine. The fuel flow, and hence engine power, is directly controlled by this valve. On engines with carburetors, throttle valves are also called butterfly valves.
Pressing the accelerator pedal opens the throttle or throttle valve, allowing more air and fuel into the combustion chamber and increasing power. In the fuel injection system, this valve only controls air flow, while the vehicle’s on-board computer regulates fuel flow.