Valve and Manifold are both common components used to control fluid flow in piping systems. Though they serve similar purposes, there are distinct differences between how valves and manifolds operate and their applications.
Valves are individual flow control devices installed into a piping or vessel to regulate fluid flow. They open, close, or throttle flow within a single body.
Manifolds are fluid collection devices that combine multiple flow streams into one header or distribute one flow into multiple branches. Valve and Manifold facilitate the fluid handling of complex systems.
Ⅰ.Main Functions
①Valves:
- On/off control to start or stop flow
- Throttling and metering precise flow rates
- Pressure or flow regulation with relief and control valves
- Preventing backflow and isolation via check and block valves
②Manifolds:
- Merge multiple incoming lines into one collected flow
- Split a single supply into multiple outlet branches
- Provide connection points for instrumentation like gauges
- Allow isolation of individual branches
- Route media to a common outlet with selector manifolds
Ⅱ.Common Valve Types
①Gate Valves: Simple linear motion to block flow. Used for on/off applications.
②Globe Valves: Flow regulation by disc movement. Used for throttling and frequent operation.
③Ball Valves: Rotating ball with a bore to control flow. Quick on/off sealing.
④Butterfly Valves: Circular disc rotated to regulate flow. Handles high-capacity flow control.
⑤Check Valves: Prevent reverse flow. Commonly used in pumps, compressors, and branches.
⑥Relief Valves: Protect against overpressure by opening at the preset limit. Critical safety devices.
Ⅲ.Common Manifold Types
①Pipe Manifolds: Gather or distribute flow via a pipe header with branches. Most versatile manifold type.
②Block Manifolds: Monolithic block with drilled flow passages. Compact and leak-proof.
③Plate Manifolds: Stacked plates alternating flow channels and sealing surfaces. Reconfigurable.
④Instrument Manifolds: Specifically designed with test ports and gauge connections. Aid field maintenance.
⑤Selector Manifolds: Rotary plugs or sliders to route between multiple configurations.
In summary, Valve and Manifold serve complementary roles in controlling fluids despite their distinct methods. Valves are individual flow control devices while manifolds aggregate flows between multiple lines. Combining both components allows precision regulation in complex networks critical across industrial plants. Their continuous development and innovative designs ensure safe, reliable, and efficient process fluid transport, handling, and isolation.
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