Double Disc Check Valves
Overview
Double Disc Check Valves are essential flow control devices used extensively in water and wastewater treatment plants to prevent the reverse flow of fluid in piping systems. Their unique design utilizes two spring-loaded doors that swiftly respond to changes in flow direction, effectively preventing backflow and thereby protecting sensitive equipment and ensuring process integrity.
By maintaining the fluid's direction of movement, these valves play a critical role in preventing contamination, mitigating water hammer, and reducing the risk of equipment damage. Their robust construction and operational reliability make them a standard choice for crucial backflow prevention tasks in pumping, intake, and sludge processing applications.
Common Applications
- Raw water intake pipelines: To prevent the undesirable reversal of flow into source bodies.
- Pump discharge lines: To minimize the risk of water hammer and reverse flow when pumps shutdown.
- Sludge processing lines: To ensure the proper flow direction and prevent back-siphonage or equipment fouling.
Operator Experience
- Monitor regularly for leakage or abnormal operational noises.
- Perform periodic visual inspections for corrosion, debris, or mechanical damage.
- Conduct routine maintenance such as lubricating components and replacing worn parts.
- Follow strict safety protocols including use of PPE and lockout/tagout during service and repair procedures.
Major Components
- Valve Body: Durable enclosure, typically cast iron or stainless steel, housing internal moving parts.
- Discs/Doors: Corrosion-resistant elements that open and close in response to flow direction.
- Springs: Provide the closing force; made of corrosion-resistant alloys for longevity.
- Seats: The surfaces against which doors close, selected based on the fluid's properties for effective sealing and durability.
Design Criteria
- Flow rate (gpm or L/s) for correct sizing and performance.
- Pipeline diameter (inches or mm) to ensure valve fit and compatibility.
- Pressure rating (psi) to match system requirements and safety margins.
Key Design Decisions
Specification Section
- 40 05 61.13 - Check Valves for Water Utilities
Submittal + Construction Considerations
Popular Manufacturers and Models
- Mueller Water Products: Mueller A-2600 Double Disc Check Valve
- GA Industries: GA Series 2500 Double Disc Check Valve
- Val-Matic Valve & Manufacturing Corp.: Val-Matic Ener-G® Double Disc Check Valve
Alternative Equipment
- Swing Check Valves: Feature a single swinging door, typically lower in cost but more prone to water hammer effects.
- Ball Check Valves: Utilize a ball instead of discs or doors, offering compact design but potentially less suitable for high-flow scenarios.
Real-World Tips
Connect with a Local Distributor
If you need help with sizing, system compatibility, maintenance planning, or sourcing, connect with your local manufacturer's representative. They can assist you in selecting the right equipment for your specific application and site conditions.
