The wafer check valves are considered as the appropriate solution for the prevention of the reverse flow of variety of fluids which may travel through the pipes. These valves are type of check valves and are designed in order to fit in between two pipeline projections. These valves are usually designed with quick plate closing so as to reduce slamming. The purpose of the production of first wafer check valve was to overcome the difficulties experienced with the swing and lift check valves due to their size. These valves are further classified in to two types and they are split disc wafer check valve and swing type wafer check valve.

Kinds of wafer check valves

The disc check valves are smaller than the standard swing valves and they cost considerably less. These valves usually have four parts and they are body, disc, spring and a spring retainer. The design of these wafer check valves is another advantage apart from the size and cost. It is because of this design; these valves can be installed in any position. For instance, they can be fitted even in the vertical pipelines where the liquids flow downwards.

Swing type wafer check valves

These valves are usually similar to that of the standard swing valves. Here the valves do not have full body like others, so when the valve opens up, the flap is required to move in to the top of the pipeline. In order for this work, the flap has to be designed with smaller diameter than that of the pipe. Because of the pressure considerations, the swing type wafer check valves are usually used only in larger size pipelines.

Applications of wafer check valves

The widespread usage of the wafer check valves is because of their compact design and lower prices. These valves are becoming the most preferred check valves nowadays. Some of the applications of these valves are given below:

• Boiler feed lines
• Steam traps
• Hot water circuits
• Vacuum breakers
• Blending operations
• Pipeline fitting protection
• Multiple boiler applications
• Blow down vessels and
• Flash vessels