Reliable flow control for water treatment and industrial applications
Butterfly valves are among the most commonly used valve types in water treatment, power generation, and industrial processes. Their advantages include a simple design, low weight, compact installation footprint, fast operation, and a wide range of nominal sizes (DN25–2000).
Fundamentally, a butterfly valve is an isolation valve designed to open or close a pipeline at a desired point. Butterfly valves can also be used for basic throttling in applications where the pipe diameter is relatively small or where the process does not require highly precise flow control. Thanks to their short face-to-face length and relatively low weight, butterfly valves are also excellent for systems with large pipe diameters.
Butterfly valve types by design
By design, butterfly valves are typically divided into three main categories: centric (concentric), double-offset, and triple-offset valves.
Centric (concentric) butterfly valves are the most common and simplest type. The disc rotates around the centerline of the valve body, and the seat is typically made of an elastomer. These valves are well suited for water, wastewater, and HVAC systems where operating pressures and temperatures remain moderate.
Double-offset butterfly valves are engineered to improve sealing performance and extend service life. The disc lifts away from the seat immediately upon opening, reducing wear and enabling operation at higher pressures. These valves are commonly used in industrial process water and cooling water systems.
Triple-offset butterfly valves are developed for the most demanding conditions involving high temperatures, high pressures, or corrosive media. The geometry minimizes friction, extends service life, and the metal seat ensures reliable, zero-leakage sealing.
Versatile connection options for easy installation and maintenance
Butterfly valves are available with various end connections, making them easy to integrate into different piping systems:
- Wafer type butterfly valves are installed between two pipe flanges. Their lightweight design and cost-effectiveness make them ideal for water distribution and HVAC systems.
- Lug type butterfly valves allow one side of the pipeline to be serviced without completely dismantling the system. Threaded lugs also enable installation at the end of the line without a mating flange.
- Flanged type butterfly valves provide a robust structure and high pressure resistance, making them a reliable choice for large trunk lines and water treatment facilities.
Material and seat options tailored to operating conditions
Butterfly valves are manufactured from a range of materials to ensure suitability for different environments:
- Cast iron and steel offer mechanical strength and rigidity for industrial use.
- Stainless steel is an excellent choice for highly corrosive or chemically demanding applications.
- PVC and other plastics provide lightweight, corrosion-resistant solutions for low-pressure systems.
Common seat materials include EPDM, NBR, FKM, and PTFE, ensuring compatibility with various media, temperatures, and pressure levels. For high-temperature or otherwise challenging conditions, metal-seated valves are also available.
From manual operation to full automation
Butterfly valves can be operated in various ways depending on system size and control requirements. Manual operation with a lever or gear operator is common in smaller pipelines or where the valve is used infrequently. Gear operators are especially beneficial for larger valves, enabling easier opening and closing.
For applications requiring precise control or integration into automated systems, electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic actuators are used. These allow remote operation, reliable positioning, and enhanced safety.
Automated butterfly valves play a critical role in water treatment facilities and industrial processes where accuracy and operational reliability in flow control are essential. ECONOSTO offers actuator solutions for all valve types—from manual levers to fully automated control systems. Actuator retrofits and modernizations, such as converting manual valves to pneumatic operation, can be carried out at our workshop in Kuopio or directly at the customer’s site when needed.
ECONOSTO’s butterfly valve portfolio for demanding applications
Selecting the right butterfly valve always depends on the operating conditions, pressure, temperature, medium, and available installation space. When the valve and materials are correctly specified, the system performs reliably with long maintenance intervals.
ECONOSTO’s extensive product range includes butterfly valves designed to meet the requirements of water treatment, industrial applications, and infrastructure projects. Valves are available in multiple sizes and pressure ratings, including large-diameter models for demanding processes. Options include a variety of materials, connection types, and actuators—from manual lever-operated valves to fully automated systems.
Looking for the right butterfly valve solution?
Contact our sales team—we will help you select a cost-effective solution tailored to your operating environment, ensuring reliable performance and long service life.
