What is Wafer Check Valve?

The wafer check valve is a compact check valve widely used to prevent backflow in pipeline systems. Its lightweight structure and efficient one-way flow control make it an ideal choice for many industrial applications.


 

Structural Features

The design of the wafer check valve differs from traditional flanged check valves, offering a more compact structure. It primarily consists of the following components:

(1) Body

Typically made of stainless steel, carbon steel, or ductile iron, ensuring corrosion resistance and mechanical strength.

(2) Disc

Can feature either a single-disc or double-disc structure, with fluid pressure controlling the opening and closing.

(3) Spring Assembly (in some models)

Assists in the quick return of the disc, reducing water hammer effects.

(4) Sealing System

Uses either metal or soft seals (such as rubber or PTFE) to ensure excellent sealing performance. The wafer design allows the valve to be directly installed between two flanges and secured with bolts, eliminating the need for additional flange connections, significantly reducing installation space and weight.

Working Principle

The working principle of the wafer check valve is based on changes in the direction of fluid flow:

(1) Normal Flow

When the fluid flows in the designed direction, the fluid pressure pushes the disc open, allowing the medium to pass through.

(2) Flow Stop or Backflow

When the fluid flow stops or backflow occurs, the disc quickly closes under the influence of gravity or spring force, preventing reverse flow. In certain conditions, the spring-return design effectively reduces water hammer effects, improving system stability.

Main Advantages

Compared to traditional check valves, the wafer check valve offers the following significant advantages:

1. Compact Structure, Space-Saving

The slim design is suitable for pipeline systems with limited installation space.

2. Lightweight, Reducing Pipeline Load

Lighter than flanged check valves, it lowers transportation and installation costs.

3. Low Pressure Loss, Improving System Efficiency

The optimized disc design reduces fluid resistance, enhancing flow capacity.

4. Multiple Installation Options

Can be installed horizontally, vertically, or at an angle, making it adaptable to different operational requirements.

5. Low Maintenance Costs

The simple structure reduces maintenance and replacement costs, improving equipment reliability.

Applicable Fields

Due to its excellent performance, the wafer check valve is widely used in the following industries:

(1) Water Treatment Systems

Prevents backflow when pumps stop, protecting equipment safety.

(2) HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)

Prevents water backflow in cooling water systems, improving pipeline system efficiency.

(3) Oil and Gas

Suitable for transporting oils, gases, and other industrial fluids, ensuring stable flow direction.

(4) Chemical Industry

Corrosion-resistant materials are used for handling acidic, alkaline liquids, and other special media.

(5) Marine and Offshore Engineering

Provides reliable check valve functionality in confined spaces, suitable for ship pipeline systems.