A globe valve (also called a stop valve) is a type of valve used to regulate or throttle the flow of fluid in a pipeline. Unlike gate valves, which are typically used for on/off control, globe valves are designed for precise flow control. The "globe" name comes from the valve's spherical body shape, though it's technically more like a bulbous shape with two main parts: the valve body and the bonnet.
How Does a Globe Valve Work?
A globe valve consists of several key components that work together to control the flow of fluid:
1. The Body: The valve body is typically spherical or globe-shaped and houses the other components.
2. The Bonnet: The bonnet is the part of the valve that houses the stem and is attached to the body. It allows the stem to move up or down to open or close the valve.
3. The Disc (or Plug): The disc or plug is the part that moves up or down inside the valve to regulate flow. It seats against the valve body to shut off the flow when the valve is closed.
4. The Seat: The seat is the surface against which the disc seals to prevent flow when the valve is closed.
5. The Stem: The stem connects the actuator (such as a handle or motor) to the disc. When the actuator turns the stem, it moves the disc into or out of the flow path.
The globe valve is designed so that flow travels in a straight path, passes through the disc (which controls the flow), and then exits through the opposite side. The disc is controlled by the stem, which adjusts the position of the disc relative to the seat to allow more or less flow.