Differences: Spring Check Valve Vs. Other Types of Check Valves

April 16
Spring Check Valve Vs. Other Types of Check Valves

Valves are flexible devices used to regulate the flow of liquids or gases. They serve a key role in national pipe and process systems, often regulating flow and pressure, starting or stopping the flow, and preventing backflow inside the system. Swing and spring check valves are two relatively recent valve types with widespread uses. Aira Euro Automation is the one-stop solution for industrial valves options. We are a leading Spring Check Valve Manufacturer in Ahmedabad, India. 

Swing type Check Valves use a swinging flap to prevent reverse flow in systems with horizontal forward flow. Spring type Check Valves also restrict reverse flow, which is accomplished by using a spring-loaded plunger. Understanding the differences between two valves might help you choose the best solution for your system or application.

What is a Spring Check Valve?

A spring check valve maintains unidirectional flow while preventing reverse flow. They feature a single input and exit and require adequate spring selection to function successfully. An arrow pointing in the flow direction appears on the side of a spring check valve, as it does on all check valves. Spring-loaded check valves are sometimes known as non-return or one-way valves. A spring check valve’s purpose is to prevent backflow by closing the valve using a spring and pressure applied to a disk.

To work effectively, a check valve requires differential pressure with flow flowing from high to low pressure. High input pressure, also known as cracking pressure, permits the flow to pass through the valve and exceed the spring’s strength.

Check valves are devices that allow any type of material to flow in one direction. The checking mechanism might be formed like a ball, disk, piston, or poppet with a mushroom-shaped head. When the pressure in a system begins to drop, slow, halt, or reverse, spring check valves prohibit reverse flow to safeguard pumps, equipment, and machinery.

What is a Swing Check Valve?

Swing check valves allow flow in one direction and close automatically when the cracking pressure lowers. They are a type of butterfly valve with a disk above the valve opening. The disc is linked to a hinge, allowing it to swing open or close when touched by the flow of media. An arrow on the side of the valve body indicates the direction of flow as it enters and exits the valve.

The pressure of the flow causes the disk or door to open, enabling the flow to pass through. When the flow goes the incorrect way, the disc shuts owing to the force of the liquid or material pressing on it.

Swing check valves do not require external power. They do not restrict the flow of fluids or media. They are often put horizontally in pipelines, although they can also be mounted vertically if the flow is upward.

Pros and Cons of Spring Check Valves

High Flow Rates

Spring Check Valves can handle huge volumes, allowing for high flow rates.

Quick Closure

In the event of backflow, the valve’s spring allows for efficient and speedy closure. This characteristic protects against hydraulic concerns such as water pounding.

Flow Orientation

Spring Check Valves may handle both vertical and horizontal flow. Instead, unlike swing check valves, they can control fluid flow in either direction.

Versatile

Spring Check Valves are among the most versatile check valves.

Positive Sealing

Spring offers the most dependable positive sealing in the event of reverse flow. They also monitor when the direction of backflow changes.

Spring Fatigue

Check valve springs are prone to fatigue over time. It is also beneficial for offering less sealing capacity and poor efficiency of the valve.

Limited to Low-Flow

Spring Check Valves have a design that suits flow rates. As a result, they are only suitable for low-flow applications and may require improvement in these conditions.

Higher Maintenance

The check valve’s spring requires additional maintenance to function properly. They normally require more maintenance and inspections than swing check valves.

Cons of Spring Check Valves

Limited to Low-Flow

Spring Check Valves are designed for high flow rates but are limited to low-flow applications. As a result, they are confined to low-flow situations and may require further improvement in this conditioner.

Spring Fatigue

Check valves can become fatigued over time. It can lead to reduced sealing capacity and poor valve performance.

Higher Maintenance

The check valve’s spring requires greater maintenance to function properly. They often require more maintenance and inspections than swing check valves.

Applications of Spring Check Valve

Spring check valves can be applicable in industries including,

  • Irrigation Systems 
  • Sprinkler systems 
  • Sump Pumps
  • Aerospace Industry 
  • Automotive Industry 
  • Residential Plumbing 
  • Hydraulic Systems

Pros and Cons of Swing Check Valve:

Swing Check Valves are ideal for applications requiring moderate flow rates. This characteristic also causes them to conform to fluctuating flow in various systems.

Moderate Flow Capacity

Swing Check Valves are ideal for applications requiring moderate flow rates. This characteristic also causes them to conform to fluctuating flow in various systems.

Minimum Clogging

Swing check valves have the lowest chance of clogging compared to other check valves. This is because the swinging action removes debris and prevents obstruction.

Less Pressure Drop

These check valves are ideal for applications that need little pressure loss. In such situations, they outperform other check valves significantly.

Low Cost

Swing Check Valves offer a cost-effective option. They provide dependable performance while being extremely cost-effective.

Large Flow Capacity

Spring Check Valves are excellent products for managing large flow capacities. 

Cons of Spring Check Valves

Slow Closure

Spring Check. Valves do not provide rapid closing like certain check valves. It can cause water pounding in situations where fast valve closure is required.

Limited Reverse Flow Tolerance

Swing check valves have limited reverse flow tolerance and may not seal well at high pressure. When the disc is under great pressure, it becomes constrained, which might cause leakage.

Slamming

Swing check valves are prone to slamming due to their high flow limit. However, this impact can be mitigated by utilizing a dampening device.

Applications of Swing Check Valve

Swing Check Valves are used in various types of industries including, 

  • Municipal System
  • Fire Protection System
  • Marine Environment 
  • Industrial Process
  • Petrochemicals

Conclusion

Swing and Spring Check Valves are ideal for non-return valves due to their numerous characteristics. When choosing between Spring Check Valves vs. Swing Check Valves, prioritize application requirements. Aira Euro Automation is the leading Valve Manufacturer in India, offering a wide range of reliable check valves that have been carefully selected to fulfill industry requirements. 
Mark your needs and choose the best check valve for your system. We are also a trusted Ball Valve Manufacturer, offering the best quality Ball Valves.