Matching Valve Types with Their Functions

In order to select the right valve for your industry or usage, experts at SEALEXCEL say that matching the valve type with their function is the first step. The result of using the wrong type of valve for a particular function can be catastrophic, for example, using a ball valve in a high pressure oxygen system would be destructive as the fast opening of the valve can cause a sudden oxygen burst that could easily lead to a fire if any source of ignition is present.

So, what should be done that ensures that only the best choice is made regarding valve selection? A good practice that can be applied: always ask what the function of the valve will be. There are 5 primary functions that are fulfilled by most valves i.e. on-off, flow control, directional flow, over-pressure protection, and excess flow protection.

For Quick and Easy Off-On Function

  SEALEXCEL has an extensive catalogue of high quality ball valves that can be viewed here.

The ideal valve for this is the ball valve, which can effectively start or stop flow due to its simple design which consists of a metallic ball positioned straight through the valve path. Furthermore, the ball (hence the name of the valve) has a large hole right through the centre which enables flow when the hole is lined up with the path of the flow.

For Adjustable Flow- Control Function

All that the operator of these valves needs to do is rotate the handle and the flow will increase or decrease according to the side the handle is rotated at. The valve can also be adjusted very easily until the desired flow rate is achieved by the operator. Examples of flow control valves are Needle and Plug valves.

For Directional Flow Control Function

Check valves are specifically designed to allow flow due to the spring loaded poppet feature that opens when the force of an upstream fluid pushes on it. The poppet is forced back into the sea, in case of an increase in back pressure or downstream force that results in the stoppage of reverse flow.

Check valves, multi-ports and fluid flow valves are excellent choices when it comes to this particular function.


Matching valve type to its correct function is just half of the job that’s required when it comes to the valve selection process. Ultimately, due attention will have to be given to installation and maintenance issues as well as the safety standards and requirements set by concerned authorities. SEALEXCEL can help operators in this respect!