“Small bore valves, as the name suggests, are valves with relatively small diameters designed for applications where space is limited or flow rates are lower. They are commonly used in industries like oil and gas, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and instrumentation, where precise flow control is required. These valves are typically available in sizes ranging from 1/8 inch to 2 inches, though some may go up to 4 inches in diameter.
Here is a list of common types of small bore valves, along with their sizes and typical uses:
Ball Valves:
Sizes: 1/4 inch to 2 inches
Use: Suitable for both on/off and throttling applications, and can handle a wide range of fluids and pressures. Commonly used in water systems, oil and gas pipelines, and chemical processing.
Needle Valves:
Sizes: 1/8 inch to 2 inches
Use: Ideal for precise flow control in low flow rate applications. Used in instrumentations, pressure gauges, and other systems requiring fine adjustments.
Globe Valves:
Sizes: 1/4 inch to 2 inches
Use: Suitable for throttling applications and can control the flow of fluids more precisely than ball valves. Commonly used in steam systems, hydraulic systems, and process control applications.
Check Valves:
Sizes: 1/8 inch to 4 inches
Use: Permit flow in one direction and prevent backflow, avoiding system contamination. Commonly used in pumps, compressors, and plumbing systems.
Gate Valves:
Sizes: 1/4 inch to 4 inches
Use: Primarily used for on/off applications, where a full bore is required. Commonly used in water supply lines and industrial processes.
Butterfly Valves:
Sizes: 1 inch to 24 inches (typically larger than other small bore valves)
Use: Suitable for large-scale flow control in low-pressure applications. Commonly used in HVAC systems, water treatment, and food processing.
Plug Valves:
Sizes: 1/4 inch to 2 inches
Use: Similar to ball valves but with a cylindrical or conical plug instead of a sphere. Used in various industries for on/off and throttling services.
Pinch Valves:
Sizes: 1/4 inch to 2 inches
Use: Utilizes a flexible tube or sleeve to control the flow by pinching the tube. Commonly used in pharmaceutical, food processing, and wastewater treatment applications.
It’s important to note that the availability of specific types and sizes may vary based on manufacturers and regions. Always consult with valve suppliers to ensure you get the right valve for your particular application.”