Valves are a critical component of nearly every piping system, making them essential throughout the oil and gas industry. From production and transport to refining operations, they play a central role in regulating flow, protecting equipment, and supporting safe, efficient system performance.
As global demand for oil and gas continues to rise, expectations around system reliability and performance have increased. Valves are expected to function dependably under high pressures, elevated temperatures, and harsh operating conditions, while still enabling accurate process control and helping reduce unplanned downtime.
Below are five of the most commonly used valve types in oil and gas applications and the roles they play in keeping systems operating safely and efficiently.
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Control Valves
Control valves are used to regulate key process variables such as flow rate, pressure, and temperature. They operate by varying the size of the flow passage in response to a signal from a controller, which may be pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric.
Because control valves operate automatically, they allow for remote and continuous process regulation without the need for constant operator intervention. This capability makes them essential in applications where tight control and repeatability are required, such as refining processes, gas processing, and pipeline operations.
Series 2000VA-3000WA High-Flow Control Valves
Series 2000VA / 3000WA High-Flow Control Valves are single-seated globe valves designed for accurate control across a wide operating range. A 50:1 rangeability, high flow capacity, and ANSI/FCI Class IV shutoff make them well suited for flow control, mixing, or diverting service in steam, water, and glycol applications. Durable construction and stainless steel trim support reliable long-term performance in industrial systems.
Butterfly Valves
Butterfly valves are commonly used for isolation and flow modulation in applications where low-pressure loss is important. Their compact design allows them to fit into tight spaces, and they are readily available in large diameters, making them well suited for large pipelines.
These valves are typically equipped with an actuator and provide fast open and close operation. With relatively few moving parts, butterfly valves offer high reliability and low maintenance requirements, which is especially valuable in high-cycle oil and gas applications.
Series SAE Butterfly Valves
Series SAE Butterfly Valves are designed for hydraulic reservoir shut-off in fluid power systems where reliable isolation and compact installation are required. The O-ring flange face seal complies with SAE J518 dimensional requirements and provides bubble-tight shutoff up to 25 psi, making these valves well suited for low-pressure hydraulic reservoirs on mobile and industrial equipment.
A compact envelope helps reduce space requirements, while the open/close detent lock allows the valve to be positioned for isolation or partial flow control during maintenance. The design also resists vibration commonly found in hydraulic pumping systems, with optional locking handles and fluoroelastomer seals available for added flexibility.
Check Valves
Check valves are used to prevent reverse flow within a piping system. By allowing flow in only one direction, they protect pumps, compressors, and other equipment from damage caused by backflow.
In addition to improving system safety, check valves help reduce maintenance and unplanned downtime. Many designs offer low pressure drop, which improves overall energy efficiency, and they can reduce flow instability and chatter within the piping network.
Series DCV/RDCV Diaphragm Valves
Series DCV / RDCV Diaphragm Valves are designed for pulse-jet dust collection systems, providing fast, reliable air pulses for effective filter cleaning. Commonly used with DCT1000 and DCT500 timer boards, these valves deliver a high flow factor and quick on/off response to ensure consistent cleaning performance in baghouses and industrial dust collectors.
The 90 ° inlet-to-outlet design minimizes airflow restriction, while coupling or NPT connection options support quick installation and flexible mounting in any orientation. A thermoplastic polyurethane diaphragm enhances service life, making the DCV and RDCV valves well suited for demanding dust collection environments.
Ball Valves
Ball valves are designed to control the flow of high-pressure liquids and gases while maintaining a tight shutoff and minimal pressure drop. Their quarter-turn operation allows for quick opening and closing, making them ideal for on-off service.
Known for their durability and ease of operation, ball valves are widely used throughout oil and gas facilities. Their simple design supports straightforward maintenance and repair, and their versatility allows them to be installed in a wide range of system locations.
Series WE02 3-Pc Stainless Steel Ball Valve
Series WE02 3-Piece Stainless Steel Ball Valves are designed for reliable gas and liquid shut-off in industrial process and automation applications. The full-port, 316 stainless steel construction minimizes pressure drop, while reinforced PTFE seats and a blowout-proof stem support long service life and safe operation. A vented ball design helps reduce operating torque, improving actuator performance and durability.
Available with direct-mounted electric or pneumatic actuators, the WE02 can be configured for on/off or modulating control, with optional limit switches providing remote valve position indication. This flexibility makes the valve well suited for systems requiring compact installation, bubble-tight shutoff, and dependable automated control.
Throttle Valves
Globe valves are commonly used for both isolation and throttling applications. Their internal design allows for precise control of flow, making them well suited for applications where gradual adjustment is required.
These valves provide excellent shutoff capability, and their linear motion simplifies operation. Globe valves are also relatively easy to service due to their accessible valve seats, which can be an advantage in demanding oil and gas environments.
Series HNV Barstock Needle Valves
Series HNV Barstock Needle Valves are designed for instrument isolation and line shut-off in gas and liquid service, particularly where corrosion resistance and precise control are required. Constructed from 316 stainless steel with PTFE wetted materials, these valves are well suited for corrosive process media and harsh operating environments.
Fine threading and a large seat area provide tight, reliable shutoff, while a built-in lock pin prevents accidental bonnet disengagement for added safety. Available in 1/8 to 1 in sizes, the HNV valve supports instrumentation, drain, and isolation points throughout industrial and process systems.
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