How to Choose the Right Butterfly Valves for Your Application

Selecting the right butterfly valve is crucial for ensuring efficient flow control, minimizing maintenance, and maximizing system performance. With various types, materials, and designs available, making the right butterfly valve choice depends on factors like pressure, temperature, fluid type, and installation requirements.

This guide will help you choose the right butterfly valves by covering key selection criteria, common types, and industry best practices.

1. Understanding Butterfly Valve Basics

A butterfly valve is a quarter-turn valve that regulates flow using a rotating disc. It is lightweight, cost-effective, and suitable for large-diameter pipelines.

Main Components:

· Body (cast iron, stainless steel, PVC, etc.)

· Disc (rotates to open/close flow)

· Stem (connects disc to actuator)

· Seat (ensures tight sealing)

· Actuator (manual lever, gear, pneumatic, or electric)

2. Key Factors to Choose the Right Butterfly Valve

① Valve Type: Wafer, Lug, or Flanged?

② Material Selection (Body & Disc)

· Cast Iron – Budget-friendly, good for water & air.

· Stainless Steel (SS304/SS316) – Corrosion-resistant, ideal for chemicals & seawater.

· PVC/CPVC – Lightweight, used in corrosive & low-temperature fluids.

· Ductile Iron – Stronger than cast iron, handles higher pressures.

③ Seat Material (Sealing Performance)

· EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) – Water, acids, mild chemicals.

· Viton (FKM) – High-temperature oils, fuels, solvents.

· PTFE (Teflon) – Aggressive chemicals, extreme temperatures.

· Metal Seat – High-pressure steam, abrasive media.

④ Pressure & Temperature Ratings

· Low Pressure (PN10/PN16) – HVAC, water systems.

· Medium Pressure (PN25/PN40) – Industrial processes.

· High Pressure (PN64 & above) – Oil & gas, power plants.

⑤ Actuation Method

· Manual (Lever/Gear) – Small valves, easy operation.

· Pneumatic – Fast response, automated systems.

· Electric – Precise control, remote operation.

· Hydraulic – High-torque applications.

3. Common Applications & Recommended Choices

4. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Butterfly Valves

❌ Ignoring Fluid Compatibility – A rubber seat may degrade in oil applications.
❌ Overlooking Pressure Ratings – Using a low-PN valve in high-pressure systems can cause failure.
❌ Wrong Actuator Selection – Manual valves may be inefficient for large pipes.
❌ Poor Installation – Misaligned flanges lead to leaks.

5. Conclusion: How to Choose the Right Butterfly Valve

To choose the right butterfly valves, consider:
✔ Valve type (wafer, lug, flanged)
✔ Material compatibility (body, disc, seat)
✔ Pressure & temperature requirements
✔ Actuation method (manual or automated)
✔ Industry-specific needs

By following these guidelines, you can ensure optimal performance, longevity, and cost-efficiency in your piping systems.