Diaphragm Valve Vs Globe Valve for Chemical Processing Applications

A Globe valve is a linear motion valve which is primarily designed to stop, start and regulate flow. A globe valve consists of a movable plug and a stationary seat in a spherical body. When the valve handle is turned the plug (or disc) is lowered or raised by means of the valve stem. When the disc is fully lowered, the fluid flow is shut off and when the disc is fully raised, the fluid flow is at its maximum rate. Variable flow rates proportional to the opening size are also possible with globe valves. Manual globe valves tend to have a threaded stem with a handwheel to open and close it using a screw motion, whereas automated globe valves generally have smooth stems and are controlled through an actuator. The sealing surface is resilient, meaning that it withstands wear very well and provides both good sealing properties and a long service life. This means that globe valves are a good solution for applications with frequent operational requirements.

• Their simple design means that they are easy to maintain and cost-effective to manufacture.
• They are quick to open and close, with an overall relatively low valve height and a short stroke.
• Ideal for smaller spaces.
• Suited to connections that require flanges.
• Good shut-off results.
• Resilient, with a long service life.
• Available in a variety of designs, each with a unique application in mind.

• Not ideal for larger pipe diameters.
• Poor pressure resistance.
• Suitable only for moderate temperatures.

Globe valves lend themselves to use in applications where fast action, leak tightness, maintenance and safety are major concerns.  They can be used in water treatment, chemical production, oil and gas transport and almost any valve application where pressure drop is not an issue.

Diaphragm solenoid valves are ideally suited to corrosive applications, where the body and diaphragm materials can be chosen for chemical compatibility. Diaphragm valves are also well-suited to abrasive applications, where the body lining can be designed to withstand abrasion and the diaphragm can be easily replaced once worn out.

MGA Controls offers a wide range of both globe valves and diaphragm solenoid valves suited to industries such as pharmaceutical where both the media flow and the cleaning media can be corrosive. The MGA Controls’ range of chemical resistant valves is stocked from the leading manufacturers of globe valves and diaphragm valves. If you would like further advice on which option would be most suitable for your requirements, whether it’s a globe valve, a diaphragm valve or one of our many other solutions, find out more about your options on our dedicated chemical resistant valve page.