In the industrial valve field, the wafer check valve is an important one-way valve widely used in various fluid pipelines. Due to its compact design and excellent performance, it has become the preferred choice in many operating conditions.

 

Basic Function of the Wafer Check Valve

The primary function of the wafer check valve is to prevent the backflow of the medium in the pipeline. Its internal design includes one or two rotatable valve discs, which are pushed open when the fluid flows in the set direction. Once the fluid flows in the reverse direction, the valve discs close quickly, thus achieving the check function. This automatic closing mechanism requires no external operation and relies entirely on the flow pressure and direction changes of the medium.

 

Various Valve Disc Designs

Wafer check valves commonly feature single-disc, double-disc, and spring-loaded valve disc types. 

(1) Single-Disc: Suitable for low flow rate and low-pressure differential conditions. 

(2) Double-Disc: More stable and reduces water hammer impact. 

(3) Spring-Loaded: Maintains good sealing performance at low flow rates, preventing leakage.

 

Advantages of the Wafer Check Valve

(1) Compact Design

The wafer check valve, with its simple structure, small size, and lightweight, is highly suitable for piping systems with limited space. 

(2) Low Pressure Drop

The resistance to fluid flow through the valve body is minimal, maintaining high flow efficiency, making it ideal for applications sensitive to flow rate and energy consumption. 

(3) Flexible Installation

The wafer-style connection allows for easy installation and removal, and can be used in both horizontal and vertical pipelines. 

(4) High Reliability

The valve disc closes quickly, effectively preventing water hammer and protecting the safety of the pipeline and equipment.

 

Main Application Scenarios of Wafer Check Valves

(1) Water Treatment Systems

Wafer check valves are widely used at the inlet and outlet of water pumps to prevent backflow when the pump is turned off, avoiding equipment damage.

(2) HVAC Systems

In cooling water circulation systems, wafer check valves are used to ensure the water flows in the designed direction, preventing backflow that could reduce energy efficiency.

(3) Chemical and Petroleum Industries

In pipelines transporting corrosive media or high-temperature, high-pressure liquids, wafer check valves provide reliable one-way flow control while preventing system contamination or damage caused by backflow.

(4) Gas Transmission Pipelines

Wafer check valves are suitable for pipelines conveying compressed air, natural gas, and other gases, preventing backflow that could cause pressure fluctuations or safety hazards in the system.

 

Performance in Special Applications

(1) Marine Engineering

Wafer check valves are commonly used in water treatment systems of seawater desalination equipment and offshore platforms. Their corrosion-resistant design (such as the use of super duplex steel) makes them suitable for high-salinity environments.

(2) Energy Industry

In the cooling water systems of nuclear power plants and thermal power plants, wafer check valves are used to prevent backflow that could lead to system instability or equipment failure.

(3) Food and Pharmaceutical Industries

For sanitary applications, full stainless steel materials and high-polishing processes can be selected to meet strict hygiene and cleanliness requirements.

 

Precautions for Use

(1) Correct Selection

Choose the appropriate material for the wafer check valve based on the characteristics of the medium, temperature, pressure, and other parameters. For example, stainless steel is used for corrosive media, while carbon steel is suitable for general water or oil media.

(2) Correct Installation Direction

Ensure that the flow direction during valve installation matches the actual flow direction of the pipeline to avoid affecting the check function.

(3) Regular Inspection and Maintenance

After long-term operation, the sealing elements of the wafer check valve may age or the valve disc may wear. Regular inspection is required to ensure its reliable performance.