The flexing action of an elastomer pinch valve sleeve breaks away any solid or dewatered slurry build up, even lime. The sleeve has no pockets for slurry to plug in or erode. |
When abrasive particles strike the hard surface of traditional metal valves, the energy of impact is absorbed by the metal surface prematurely wearing seats, weirs, rotating discs, plugs and balls. Additionally, these abrasive particles pack behind the ball and plug, scoring the sealing surface and creating leaks.
When abrasive particles strike the elastomer surface of a pinch valve, the impact is absorbed and deflected back into the particle. Extremely resistant elastomers wear at a far slower rate than ceramics or metal alloy valve trims. Pinch valves are full-ported with no crevices or seats to foul valve operation.
Another major benefit of pinch valves is that there is no packing to maintain. Pinch valves provide double containment without the need for packing. Therefore, they are often installed in buried service applications and if fugitive emissions are a concern.
Accurate, repeatable linear flow control and drop-tight, bi-directional shutoff make elastomer valves such as Red Valve Company's pinch valves ideal for influent flow control and during pretreatment as wastewater is passed through a screen to remove grit.
Caustic and chemical solutions, such as lime are used to equalize wastewater. These materials present tough problems for metal valves, but the elastomer sleeve within a pinch valve resists abrasion and corrosion. The flexing action of an elastomer sleeve breaks apart dewatered solids each time the valve is actuated, even after long periods of inactivity. In sludge, waste activated and return activated applications where the percent solids is greatest, pinch valves can outperform all other valves.
About the Author: Chris Raftis is President of Red Valve Company and Tideflex® Technologies. For more information on elastomer valves and their applications, visit www.redvalve.com.
Red Valve is an exhibitor at the WEFTEC.12 event and can be found at Booth No. 1733