Rubber check valves are a vital component of water management systems. They provide a low-cost and effective way to prevent backflow.
When stormwater systems are in operation, water can flow in the wrong direction due to a variety of factors. When water is improperly directed, it can erode land, cause saltwater to enter freshwater ponds, or lead to other problems.
In order to prevent this, a check valve is designed to open and close based on pressure differentials. This pressure differential is what causes the valve to close and stop fluid flow.
There are many factors to consider when selecting a check valve for your system. Among these are material selection and performance requirements.
Materials for the valves body and actuating parts must be strong enough to withstand various types of media and piping system demands. They must also resist corrosive environments and meet the required flow rates.
The elastomers used in the construction of rubber check valves are typically NSF or ANSI certified to prevent deterioration by leaching and scaling in the piping environment. This helps ensure the integrity of your piping system.
Several elastomer options are available to suit a wide range of applications. These include nitrile, silicone, butyl, Viton(r), neoprene, polyurethane and epichlorohydrin.
Check valves are used in a wide range of industries, including chemicals, pulp and paper, food processing, wastewater treatment, industrial, marine and mining. They are also employed in pumping, pipelines and power generation.
When a check valve fails, fluid flow is blocked, which can result in an array of hazards. These hazards can range from clogging and flooding to loss of pressure and hazardous conditions in the line.
Some common check valve defects include flutter, cracking, vibration and leakage. These symptoms are typically a warning sign that a check valve is on its way out, and may require immediate attention.
Another defect is a lack of elasticity in the elastomer. This is often a sign that the elastomer is wearing down and causing it to fail.
In addition, a lack of elasticity can lead to a leaking seal that could potentially damage the surrounding piping and cause costly repair costs.
The right rubber check valve can help to eliminate these and other issues. The type of elastomer can also make a difference, with some options being better at handling corrosive environments and other conditions than others.
A properly selected and installed rubber check valve can add a significant amount of reliability to any water management system. In the case of large storms, a quality check valve can keep systems running effectively.
When a rubber check valve is installed properly, these devices are very low-maintenance and long-lasting. When they aren’t needed, these nonmechanical valves fade into the background, quietly doing their job.
Unlike metal swing or flap check valves, rubber duckbill check valves cannot rust, seize or bind with obstructions. They can also be manufactured from a wider variety of elastomers, allowing them to withstand a greater variety of materials and piping system conditions.