Industries like oil and gas, chemicals, natural gas, biotechnology etc., require fluid system components that safely and efficiently regulate and control fluid throughout their facilities. One of the most common challenges of fluid systems is isolating or blocking the fluid without shutting down the entire fluid system. Read on to learn about the different types of valves you can use to help isolate fluid.
What Are Block And Bleed Valves?
Block and bleed valves are essential in applications that require blocking or isolating the flow of fluid in the system. Block and bleed valves isolate or block the fluid upstream from reaching other components in the system downstream. Typically, block and bleed valves are often used where only one element of the system requires maintenance, repair or replacement while the other components continue running smoothly. Block and bleed valves are also used in flow diversion, sampling, chemical injections, integrity checks for leakage and more!
Double Block and Bleed Valves vs. Single Block and Bleed Valves
While both valves are used to block or isolate the fluid in a system, single block and bleed valves are usually used for non-critical process services. Since a single block and bleed valve consists of only one block valve and one bleed valve, it is often used with low-pressure or non-hazardous process fluids. On the other hand, a Double block and bleed (DBB) valves consist of two block valves and one bleed valve. This allows the valve to provide fluid isolation from both upstream and downstream pressures. As double block and bleed valves can isolate or block fluid from one part of the fluid system, it is often used during maintenance. Rather than shutting down the entire facility to perform maintenance or repairs in a certain application, DBB valves are used to isolate the area that requires maintenance.
Double Block and Bleed Valves Applications
In addition to providing isolation for maintenance, double block and bleed valves can also be used to:
- Calibrate meters
- Remove equipment from service for cleaning or repairs
- Prevent product contamination
- Shut off and vent pressure in measuring instruments
- Isolate instrumentation such as lever gauges and pressure indicators
Hy-Lok’s Block and Bleed Valves
As every industry has its unique fluid systems, Hy-Lok Canada is proud to offer an extensive inventory of block and bleed valves that range in size, material and pressure ratings. Many of our block and bleed valves feature NPT pipe threads that are available in a wide range of sizes. We also provide many industries across Canada with custom-fabricated valves for their unique applications. No matter your fluid system needs, we are proud to offer you high-quality valves that can be seamlessly integrated into your unique fluid system.
Ready To Partner with Hy-Lok?
At Hy-Lok Canada, we are committed to helping you find the right components for your fluid systems. Contact our team today to learn more about our block and bleed valves inventory!
