Plug Valve

• General Info

  A plug valve is a valve that uses a cylindrical or conical plug to control the flow of fluids. This plug has one or more hollow passages (ports) that allow fluid to pass through when it is aligned with the valve's inlet and outlet. Plug valves are appreciated for their straightforward design, reliability, and quick operation, making them suitable for situations that need rapid, complete shut-off or frequent use.
  
  Key Components
  Body: The outer shell that houses the plug, typically made from materials like cast iron, stainless steel, or brass.
  Plug: A rotating part with a bored passage that aligns with the flow path when the valve is open. The plug can be either cylindrical or conical.
  Stem: This connects the plug to the actuator or handle, allowing it to rotate to open or close the valve.
  Seal or Sleeve: A lining (often made from materials like PTFE) that encases the plug, ensuring a tight seal to prevent leaks.
  
  Working Principle
  The plug inside the valve body can be turned 90 degrees to either allow or stop the flow. When the plug's passage aligns with the inlet and outlet, fluid can flow through. Turning the plug so that it is perpendicular to the passage halts the flow, effectively closing the valve. Plug valves provide quick shutoff and are easy to operate, whether manually or with an actuator.
  
  Types of Plug Valves
  
  Lubricated Plug Valve
  Design: Features a lubrication system to minimize friction between the plug and the body.
  Applications: Frequently used in pipelines that handle heavy-duty, abrasive, or corrosive materials, such as in the oil and gas industries.

• Specification

  Common Plug Valve Sizes
  Small Sizes: Usually range from ¼ inch to 2 inches (6 mm to 50 mm). These sizes are commonly used in low-flow applications, instrumentation, and control systems.
  Medium Sizes: Ranging from 2 inches to 8 inches (50 mm to 200 mm), these sizes are standard in many industrial applications, including chemical processing and HVAC systems.
  Large Sizes: Extend from 8 inches up to 24 inches or more (200 mm to 600 mm+). These larger valves are used in high-flow applications, such as oil and gas pipelines, water treatment facilities, and large industrial systems.
  
  Industry-Specific Sizing
  Oil and Gas: Commonly use sizes from 2 inches to 24 inches, depending on pipeline requirements and pressure ratings.
  Chemical Processing: Sizes typically range from 1 inch to 12 inches, depending on the specific needs for flow control and the type of fluids being handled.
  Water Treatment: Often utilize sizes from 2 inches to 24 inches for handling large volumes of wastewater or water distribution.
  HVAC Systems: Usually found in sizes from 1 inch to 10 inches, suitable for heating and cooling applications.