Technical Article
Selection criteria for industrial valves
Proper valve selection is a critical aspect of industrial system design, directly influencing safety, efficiency and reliability. This article outlines key considerations and a structured methodology to help engineers choose the most suitable valve for their specific operational needs.
Omer Yildiz, Mechanical Engineer, and Dr. Kemal Comaklı, Mechanical Engineer, Starvalve Industrial Valves and Actuators
Kocaeli-Türkiye
About Ömer Yıldız Ömer Yıldız is a Mechanical Engineer with over 25 years of professional experience in the industrial valve and actuator industry. He is the Founder and General Manager of Starvalve Process Valves and Actuator Technology Inc. His expertise focuses on process automation, valve design, and energy-efficient flow control solutions.
About Kemal Çomaklı( PhD) Dr. Kemal Çomaklı is a Mechanical Engineer who holds a Ph. D. in Building Services and Energy Efficiency. He has more than 30 years of professional experience in industrial energy systems, fluid control, and energy management. He is currently the Training Manager at STARVALVE Process Valves and Actuator Technology Inc, responsible for developing and delivering technical training programs for engineers and industry professionals.
Fig. 1. On / off valves( ball valves, butterfly valves etc.).
The safe, efficient, and sustainable operation of industrial fluid systems is directly related to the selection of the correct valve. Valves perform vital functions such as starting, stopping, directing, and regulating flow and protecting the system from excessive pressure. This article explains the basic functions and types of industrial valves and details the STAMPED( Size, Temperature, Application, Media, Pressure, Ends, Delivery) methodology, a systematic approach to selecting the right valve. Furthermore, technical factors such as fluid dynamics, material compatibility and system safety are considered. This study aims to help engineers and designers determine the most appropriate valve type for their specific applications.
Importance of industrial valves
Fluid systems in industrial facilities form the backbone of production processes. Fluid system design can be complex and requires many considerations. Valves are key components that ensure the functionality and safety of these systems( Crane Co., 2018). They perform functions such as starting or stopping flow, changing its direction, controlling flow rate or protecting the system in overpressure situations. Selecting the wrong valve can lead to system inefficiencies, process losses and serious safety risks( ISA, 2021).
Safety
In systems involving high pressure, high temperature or hazardous chemicals, safety is critical. Safety valves and pressure relief valves are activated in such situations to prevent dangerous pressure increases that could cause system rupture or leaks( API RP 520, 2014). These valves act as the system’ s“ last line of defense” and enhance process safety. Therefore, it is essential to consider relevant safety standards( e. g., ASME, ISO 4126) during the design and installation phases. Following best practices during installation and operation ensures the proper operation of these vital components.
Flow dynamics and the role of the valve
Valves directly affect the control of fluids( liquid, gas, vapour) in a system. Flow rates vary depending on pipe diameter, valve internal geometry and pressure differential. One of the most commonly used criteria for evaluating valve performance is the flow coefficient, Kv and Cv. Kv and Cv represent the amount of fluid that passes per unit time under a given pressure drop( ISA S75.01). For compressible fluids such as gas and steam, more complex calculations are made and this makes valve selection more sensitive( Perry & Green, 2019). The Kv and Cv values of valves are important coefficients that determine a valve’ s flow capacity.
20 Valve World February 2026 www. valve-world. net