Types of Industrial Control Valves and Their Understanding

Posted by Aira Euro on September 29th, 2022

A control valve, also known as a control nozzle, is an essential component of many industries. Oil and gas are one of their most well-known applications. The purpose of control valves is to control operating conditions such as flow rate, temperature, pressure, and liquid level. Upon receiving signals from controllers, they open valves partially or completely. First-time customers can read this post to learn more about this product.

The Basic Design of Control Valves

Any control valve consists of three primary components

  • Body

  • Actuator

  • Positioner

Electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic actuators can open or close control nozzles. Positioners open and close actuators using pneumatic or electric signals. The design of these three components can vary depending on the type of control valve.

Types of Control Valves

Control valves are used in a variety of industrial applications. Following is a list of the general types of valves used by various industrial sectors.

  • Angle Valves

Manually operated, this valve controls fluid flow in pipes. In this design, outlet openings are oriented at right angles to inlet openings. There are two types of angle valves: cage-style valves and disk stack valves.

  • Globe Valves

A valve of this type regulates pipeline flow. There is a spherical body with two halves separated by a baffle. To close the valve, a movable disk or plug is placed in the opening. A globe valve can have a single port, a three-way port, a port-guided port, a double-ported port, a cage-guided cage, or a cage designed to hold a balanced plug.

  • Rotary Valves

In rotary valves, transverse plugs rotate, regulating the flow of gases or liquids. In steam and gas engines, as well as in industrial furnaces, they are mainly used.

  • Diaphragm Valves

Membrane valves, also known as diaphragm valves, have multiple ports. On top of a weir, or saddle, is the diaphragm that closes the valve. Actuators can be pneumatic, electric, hydraulic, or manual. A valve with two ports is called a 2/2-way valve, and one with three ports is called a 3/2 valve. Block valves are bodies with more than three ports.

  • Air Operated Valves

In this type of valve, air pressure is used to produce linear or circular movements. A piston or diaphragm supports the valve. A two-way, three-way, or four-way air-operated valve can be designed. Relay valves and pinch valves are subtypes.

  • Sliding Cylinder Valves

Generally, steam engines use this type of valve. Controlling the amount of steam going into the engine is one of its functions. Additionally, it is used to control exhaust emissions. Moving with other moving parts, they control steam and exhaust by sliding from side to side. To control gas intake in engines, sliding cylinder valves are used in automobiles today.

  • Angle Seat Piston Valves

The valves are controlled by pneumatic actuators. Lifting seals are provided by a piston actuator, which provides linear movements. Most angle valves are used in applications with high flow rates and temperatures.

It is important for first-time customers to understand which valves are suitable for their industrial applications based on the above information. Prior to making a decision, it is always a good idea to consult a valve supplier.


Aira Euro Automation is a leading Industrial Valve Manufacturer in India, since 1990. We Have a Wide Range of Industrial Pneumatic Actuated & Manual Valves.

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Aira Euro
Joined: May 19th, 2020
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