Automatic valves and drive valves are two main types classified based on the operation mode and power source of the valve.

automatic valve

Definition: A valve that operates on its own by relying on the ability of the medium (liquid, gas, steam, etc.).

Features: No external power source required, automatically opens or closes based on parameters such as pressure and temperature of the medium.

Common types

Safety valve: When the medium pressure exceeds the set value, it automatically opens to discharge the medium and protect the pipeline or equipment.

Check valve: prevents medium backflow, automatically opens or closes by relying on medium flow.

Pressure reducing valve: automatically reduces the medium pressure to the desired value and maintains stability.

Drain valve: automatically removes condensed water from the steam pipeline while preventing steam leakage.

Drive valve

Definition: A valve operated by external power (manual, electric, hydraulic, pneumatic, etc.).

Features: Requires external energy or manual operation, can accurately control the opening and closing of valves.

Common types

Gate valve: Control the flow of medium through the lifting and lowering of the gate plate, commonly used to cut off or connect pipelines.

Globe valve: Adjust the flow rate and pressure of the medium through the lifting and lowering of the valve disc.

Ball valve: It uses a ball with holes to rotate for opening and closing, and has good sealing and fast opening and closing characteristics.

Butterfly valve: Control flow by rotating a disc-shaped butterfly plate around an axis, suitable for large-diameter pipelines.

Plug valve: It uses the rotation of the plug body to achieve opening and closing, with a simple structure and easy operation.

main difference

Operation method

Automatic valve: It operates automatically based on the medium's own ability.

Drive valve: requires external power or manual operation.

Application scenarios

Automatic valve: suitable for occasions that require automatic control of medium flow, such as safety protection, preventing backflow, etc.

Drive valve: suitable for situations where manual or automatic control of medium flow, pressure, and direction is required.

Choose Suggestions

Automatic valve: suitable for systems that require automatic response to changes in medium parameters, such as safety protection, automatic drainage, etc.

Drive valve: suitable for systems that require precise control of medium flow, such as adjusting flow rate, cutting off medium, etc.

By understanding the characteristics and application scenarios of automatic valves and drive valves, suitable valve types can be better selected to ensure the safe, stable, and efficient operation of fluid systems.