What is the purpose of a globe valve, and what is it used for?

A globe valve is an instrument used to stop and/or control the flow of fluids in a pipeline. It works by halting the flow of a fluid through a pipe. The name globe comes about due to the valve’s cylindrical shape. There are usually two halves of the body within the globe valve that are separated by an internal baffle.

Despite the fact that globe valves typically cause more pressure drops compared to gate valves, they are suitable for applications where the pressure drop through the valve is not a critical factor. When globe valves are employed for throttling purposes, they are often referred to as throttle valves.

Globe valves serve a variety of functions and can be categorized into different types, including isolation valves and control valves, among others. The term "globe" in their name originates from the spherical shape of the valve body.

What is the purpose of a globe valve, and what is it used for?

The main function of a globe valve is to stop, start, and control the flow of liquids and gases within pipes. This is achieved through a movable disk-type element and a stationary ring seat within a cylindrical body. The seat of the globe valve is positioned centrally and aligned side-by-side with the pipe, while a disk or plug is used to close off the seat's opening. The design of globe valves allows them to efficiently manage flow in both directions.

What makes isolation gate valves different?

Isolation gate valves stand out from other types of valves, including globe valves. While various valves may fall under the category of globe valves—serving roles such as isolation valves, control valves, and more—the term "globe" typically refers to the spherical shape of the valve body.

Globe valves are primarily designed to stop, start, and regulate the flow of liquids and gases in pipelines. They typically feature a movable disk component and a stationary ring seat within a cylindrical body. Positioned centrally and parallel to the pipe, the seat's opening is sealed by a disk or plug. This configuration enables globe valves to effectively manage flow in both directions.

What is the most common application of a globe valve?

Globe valves are most commonly found in everyday applications like water faucets. When you turn the handwheel, the disc inside the valve either lowers or lifts. Lowering the disc fully will shut off the water supply completely, while raising it to its highest position allows for the maximum water flow. In larger industrial applications, globe valves may be operated by an electrical actuator instead of a manual handle for ease and efficiency.

Inside a globe valve, there is typically a baffle that causes the liquid to change direction as it flows through. This redirection means the fluid can't flow as freely, resulting in a pressure drop within the valve. Due to this design, globe valves are not suitable for use with slurries or thicker liquids, as the baffle can impede their flow.

What industry or company uses globe valves?

Globe valves find applications across a wide range of process industries. Their internal construction varies depending on their specific use. For example, in applications requiring precise flow control, a globe control valve is equipped with internal components designed specifically to regulate the process fluid effectively.

The plant piping industry frequently employs globe valves, which can be operated manually or automatically. Unlike gate valves, which are primarily used for isolating flow, globe valves excel in regulating fluid pressure and can either adjust the flow rate or shut off the flow entirely. This versatility makes them valuable in various industrial settings where precise control over fluid flow is essential.

Manufacturing of Globe Valves

Globe valves are predominantly cast due to the intricate design of their flow passages, although they can also be fabricated from wrought materials for specific applications.

Typically, the discs and seat rings of globe valves are cast from bronze. However, for high-temperature applications exceeding 350°C, steel globe valves use stainless steel trim to resist seizing and galling. Heat treatment of the valve's mating surfaces is crucial to achieve differential hardness values. Manufacturers also employ other materials such as cobalt-based alloys for trim components.

Achieving a full-bearing surface contact during valve closure requires grinding the seating surface. For lower pressure classes, an extended disk locknut ensures alignment, while valve bodies designed for higher pressures feature cast-in disc guides. To prevent galling, the disc rotates freely on the stem, maintaining the integrity of the disc face and seat ring over time.

Our dependable legacy brands and team of dedicated support and service experts guarantee that you have a trusted partner who enhances value throughout every phase of your project cycle. At Kairuite Valve Group, you can rely on our globe valves for comprehensive flow control success. They are available in various styles, materials, and configurations to effectively regulate fluid flow across diverse mediums and applications.