Double-door check valves, also known as dual-plate or wafer check valves, are designed to allow fluid to flow in one direction while preventing backflow. They consist of two spring-loaded half-circle plates or discs that pivot on a hinge pin. These plates are mounted inside the valve body, which is typically wafer-shaped to fit between two flanges in a pipeline.
When fluid flows in the desired direction, the pressure of the fluid pushes the two plates open, allowing the fluid to pass through. The plates pivot around the hinge pin, moving away from each other and creating an unobstructed path for the fluid. The spring mechanism assists in opening the plates quickly and efficiently.
If the flow stops or reverses, the springs force the plates to close. The plates pivot back to their original position, sealing against the valve seat. This prevents any backflow of fluid. The design of the double-door check valve ensures a quick response to changes in flow direction, minimizing the risk of water hammer, which is a pressure surge caused when a fluid in motion is forced to stop or change direction suddenly.
Double-door check valves are compact, lightweight, and have a low-pressure drop compared to other types of check valves. They are suitable for a wide range of applications, including water, oil, gas, and chemical processing industries. Their design allows for easy installation and maintenance, making them a popular choice for systems where space and weight are considerations.