Multi-Purpose Actuator Enables Ball Valve to Open and Close Automatically

Thermoplastic calibration columns are a quick and convenient way to measure or verify pump flow rates, chemical dosing accuracy, or chemical feed system accuracy. In many cases they can also serve as a tank level indicator. Here’s a quick primer on how to use these helpful devices.

A chemical manufacturer’s mixing system for varnishes suffered from corrosion and leaks due to brass valves and discount ball valves. Plast-O-Matic solved the issue with air-operated diaphragm valves featuring a “Fail-Dry” system to prevent leaks and extend valve life.

The City of Bremerton, Washington needed to build a system to bring its pH levels in line with the Lead and Copper laws, with the flexibility to compensate for a variety of water sources. Dealing with pH levels below neutral, the Engineering Division of Bremerton Public Works and Utilities had to provide a system for injecting caustic soda into the water main.

An Air Release Valve is open when the system is depressurized. At start up, the liquid process forces most of the air in the pipeline to high points, where the ARV allows it to escape. Once liquid rises, the valve closes and will not allow anything – gas or liquid – to pass in or out. It will not vent gas as it occurs during daily operations. It will reopen only when the system is depressurized and liquid level drops.

To fully understand the valve and the piping possibilities, the first step is to understand all of the capabilities of a 2-port valve.

In this chemical bulk handling application, a ball-type check valve was specified as a foot valve to provide continuous pump prime. The centrifugal pump will not self-prime, and if it runs dry will result in seal failure. Prolonged operation in a dry condition is likely to result in catastrophic failure.