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Balancing valves: operation and purpose

Complete guide to the features, operation and applications of balancing valves

Balancing valves (also called balance or control valves) are hydraulic devices that allow the flow of heat transfer fluid to be precisely regulated and fed to the terminals of a plant. This type of valve is typically used in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and water distribution systems in buildings.

 

The correct balance of hydraulic circuits is essential to ensure the operation of the plant under design conditions, high thermal comfort and low energy consumption. The function of these valves is in fact to regulate the flow of fluid so that the quantity passing through each branch or circuit is proportional to the needs of that specific branch, neither higher nor lower. It serves to "balance" the amount of fluid that enters each branch of the circuit, ensuring its optimal operation.

 

This way you maintain a uniform distribution of the flow, avoiding imbalances that could cause efficiency problems, irregular temperatures or unwanted pressures.

 

Let’s see what they are, how they work and where the balancing valves are located.

 
 

What is a balancing valve and what is it used for

Hydraulic balance valves are essential components to ensure the proper functioning of hydraulic systems. As we have seen, their main function is to control and balance the water flow, ensuring a uniform distribution of fluid to all terminals of the system. This operation (and therefore the presence of these valves) is crucial to avoid pressure and temperature imbalances, which could compromise the efficiency and functioning of the plants, or cause problems in the distribution of the flow.

 

Without efficient and quality balancing valves, the system loses balance, circuits closer to the pump receive an excessive flow rate, while those farther away are disadvantaged. In an air conditioning system, for example, there are also significant differences in temperature in the different rooms, reducing comfort and causing increased consumption.

 

There are different types of balancing valves, which can be divided into two main categories:

  • static balancing valves: they are manually adjusted to achieve the desired flow in each branch of the system. They have a fixed opening (in fact they are also called fixed balancing valves) or preset that limits the flow of fluid in the corresponding branch;
  • dynamic balancing valves: they dynamically adjust the flow in response to changing system conditions.

 

Operation of balancing valves

 

A balancing valve then regulates the flow of fluid through it. The adjustment is made by acting on the knob that controls the movement of a shutter, which regulates the passage of fluid. The flow rate is controlled according to the value which is measured by two piezometric connections suitably placed on the valve itself.

 

These valves are usually placed on the pipes supplying the different branches of the system. Some are also equipped with flow measuring instruments - such as orifice measuring instruments, which allow you to monitor and control the performance of your system.

 

Main applications of balancing valves

 

Due to their versatility and the ability to precisely regulate and control the flow of fluid, balancing valves are used in a wide range of applications. In some areas they are absolutely essential.

 

Their robustness and reliability make them essential components in all systems and installations that require precise fluid flow balance, including, above all, heating, cooling (conditioning) and water for sanitary use.

 

They adjust the flow rate and maintain constant pressure. This ensures the desired level of comfort in every room, eliminates annoying noises caused by differential pressure fluctuations and significantly reduces system wear. If a circuit is properly balanced, the benefits are considerable:

  • terminals work properly by heating, cooling and dehumidifying without wasting energy and ensuring optimal comfort;
  • electric pumps work in the highest performance zone, reducing the risk of overheating and premature wear;
  • too high fluid velocities, which can cause noise and abrasive action, do not occur;
  • the value of the differential pressures acting on the control valves is limited.

 

In addition, fuel and/or electricity consumption costs are reduced. For this reason, their use is recommended by local and European regulations as a crucial factor in energy saving.

 

ECI balancing valves: maximum precision and efficiency

 

ECI balancing valves are reliable solutions for a wide range of industrial applications. Thanks to their robust construction and the use of high-quality and high-strength materials, they ensure durability, wear resistance and perfect flow control.

 

They create balanced systems, minimizing energy waste and improving the overall efficiency of the systems. They are the perfect solution for heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

 

In addition, ECI hydraulic balance valves comply with the BS 7350 standard, which sets out the technical requirements and design specifications for this type of valve.

 

Synonymous with excellent performance and resistance over time, they are easy to install, a feature that makes them perfect for both new buildings and energy upgrading. In particular:

  • the BR825 balancing valve is made of bronze and has a fixed orifice, suitable for water and use in HVAC and sanitary installations;
  • The G801 balancing valve is instead made of double-regulated spheroidal cast iron with variable orifice, and ensures the measurement and regulation of the flow rate with maximum efficiency and precision.

 

If you would like to learn more about the operation and applications of balancing valves, and for more information on the valves proposed by ECI, do not hesitate to contact us!