TPi November 2014

Valves, Fittings and Flanges

In today’s ever-widening universe of tube products, connecting devices assume greater importance to designers, engineers and builders all the time. It follows that makers and suppliers of valves, fittings and flanges become steadily more proactive in the partnership with their customers – standing ready to research, recommend and provide solutions, and to maintain an interested presence beyond the sale. With global markets imposing shorter lead times and demanding more flexible responses, the new emphasis is not solely on the devices but on the

total service package. Even a casual review of online catalogues suggests that manufacturers and distributors relish the challenge, and it is a fair bet that their enhanced assistance is very welcome to the buyer. Consider this partial list of valve types from the website of a leading manufacturer: gate, globe, check, ball, knife-gate, foot, port, diaphragm, parallel slide, safety relief, butterfly, boiler, plug, pinch. In a sector of this much high-tech multiplicity, an experienced guide makes an invaluable companion.