Globe Control Valves

Internal view of globe control valve (Masoneilan)

Globe control valves work differently when compared to gate valves, ball valves, butterfly valves and plug valves in process control applications. They are primarily used to control the flow inside pipes, and are popular in a wide variety of industries. Globe control valves are ideal in situations where precise control is required. They are used to regulate flow in pipelines with a high degree of accuracy by regulating a pressures drop created in the valve body that allows the fluid to pass through the passageway (port) in the valve body. The control valve stem provides linear motion to bi-directionally control flow, opening and closing the valve by changing the distance between valve disc and seat. The flow in the pipeline changes according to the position of the disc lifting from the seat. The movement is controlled through the use of manual operators, or through the use of electric or pneumatic actuators.

Applications of Globe Control Valves 

Globe control valves are used in many different industries, but particularly in the petrochemical and power generation industries on fuel oil pipes, chemical feed systems, steam pipes, as well as cooling water and feedwater systems.  Other industrial applications of globe valve include boiler, main steam vents, and turbine lube oil systems.

Pros

Globe control valves have many advantages that make them preferable over other valve designs. Globe control valves have excellent shut-off and throttling capabilities. In addition, globe valves are easy to maintain and repair compared to other valves.

Cons

Globe control valves have also certain shortcomings. For instance, globe valves have an S-shaped flow pattern (as opposed to a straight-through flow pattern) which creates a significant pressure drop making them unsuitable for applications constant pressure is required.  Another shortcoming of the globe valves is they generally require greater torque to open and close, requiring larger actuators to properly seat the valve.

For more information on industrial globe valves, or any type of industrial valve, contact Classic Controls by calling 863-644-3642 or by visiting https://classiccontrols.com.