Electric Valves: Comprehensive Guide for Industrial Applications

In modern industrial automation, electric valves play a critical role in regulating fluid flow with precision and reliability.

Unlike manual valves, electric valves integrate actuators powered by electricity to achieve remote control, programmable operation, and integration into automated systems.

Selecting the right electric valve requires understanding types, operation principles, material compatibility, and application-specific requirements.

This article provides a comprehensive guide for engineers and procurement managers to choose the correct electric valve for industrial projects.

Definition and Function

An electric valve is a valve equipped with an electric actuator that drives the valve to open, close, or modulate fluid flow based on electrical signals.

They are widely used in HVAC, water treatment, chemical processing, and energy industries where precision control and remote operation are critical.

Electric valves can handle liquids,gases, or steam and are designed for various pressure and temperature ranges.

Procurement tip: Ensure the electric valve’s actuator is compatible with the control system voltage, communication protocol, and operation frequency.

Working Principle

Electric valves operate using an actuator powered by AC or DC electricity. The actuator converts electrical energy into mechanical motion, rotating a disc, ball, or sliding a gate to controlflow.

Common control modes include:

On/Off Control:Simple open or closed positions, often used in pipelines that require complete shut-off.
Modulating Control:Continuous adjustment of valve position based on control signals (0-10V, 4-20mA, or digital protocols) for precise flow regulation.

Example: In a boiler steam line, a modulating electric globe valve adjusts steam flow based on temperature sensors, maintaining consistent process conditions.

Engineer’s note: Properly sizing the electric actuator for torque requirements and valve type is essential for long-term reliability.

Types of Electric Valves

Electric valves come in several configurations depending on the flow control mechanism:

Electric Ball Valves: Quarter-turn valves suitable for quick on/off operation and automation in water, oil, and gas lines.
Electric Butterfly Valves: Compact quarter-turn valves ideal for large-diameter pipelines with low to medium pressure.
Electric Globe Valves: Linear motion valves suitable for precise flow regulation and throttling applications.
Electric Gate Valves: Typically used in full-bore pipelines requiring remote on/off control with minimal pressure drop.
Electric Solenoid Valves: Small, fast-acting valves used in pneumatic, hydraulic, or chemical systems for automated control.

Procurement insight: Consider pipeline diameter, pressure, and flow characteristics when selecting the electric valve type for automation.

Material and Seal Considerations

Electric valves are available in diverse materials to accommodate different media and operating conditions:

Body: Stainless steel, carbon steel, cast iron, or bronze.
Internal Components: Stainless steel discs or balls, high-performance coatings for corrosion resistance.
Seals/Seats: EPDM, PTFE, NBR, or metal-to-metal designs for high-temperature or high-pressure systems.

Tip: Ensure actuator torque is compatible with material friction and sealing characteristics to prevent premature wear or leakage.

Applications Across Industries

Electric valves are widely used in industrial applications requiring automation and precise control:

HVAC Systems: Modulating electric butterfly valves for chilled water and heating circuits.
Water Treatment Plants: Electric ball valves control chemical dosing lines and water distribution systems.
Power Plants: Electric globe valves regulate steam and cooling water systems.
Chemical & Petrochemical: Electric solenoid and ball valves handle corrosive fluids, ensuring safety and accuracy.

Case Example: A chemical facility replaced manual ball valves with electric actuated ball valves, enabling centralized control and reducing manual operation time by 60% while improving system safety.

Selection and Procurement Tips

Determine the type of fluid, pressure, and temperature to select compatible materials.
Check actuator power supply (AC/DC), torque rating, and communication protocol.
Confirm compliance with certifications such as CE, ISO 9001, and relevant industrial standards.
Assess valve size, installation space, and maintenance accessibility.
Plan for testing and calibration of modulating electric valves to maintain control precision.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Electric valves provide precision control, automation capabilities, and operational safety for modern industrial systems.

Proper selection of valve type, actuator, and material ensures reliable performance and long-term cost efficiency.

DKV Valve offers a wide range of electric valves backed by 40+ years of manufacturing expertise and global supply to over 60 countries.

📩 Contact DKV Valve today to request technical datasheets, pricing, or customized electric valve solutions for your industrial projects.