Valves are critical components in the marine industry, ensuring safe and efficient control of fluid systems onboard vessels. From ballast tanks to fuel lines, the correct valve selection is essential for safety, compliance, and operational performance. As an established marine and industrial valve stockist and distributor in Singapore, Aik Soon Hardware provides shipowners, shipbuilders, and engineers with high-quality valves that meet stringent industry standards.
In this article, we explore the most common valve types found onboard vessels, their functions, locations, applications, selection criteria, and suitable materials. This guide aims to assist procurement professionals, ship engineers, and technical managers in making informed decisions when sourcing valves for marine operations.
1. Gate Valves
Description:
Gate valves are designed to start or stop the flow of liquid by raising or lowering a wedge-shaped disc. They provide a straight-through unobstructed passage when fully open, minimizing pressure drop.
Common Vessel Applications & Locations:
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Engine room: Fuel oil transfer lines, lube oil pipelines
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Ballast tanks: Control of water intake/discharge
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Cooling water circuits: For seawater intake and discharge
Selection Considerations:
Materials:
2. Globe Valves
Description:
Globe valves use a linear motion to regulate flow. They consist of a movable disc and stationary ring seat in a spherical body, offering precise throttling capabilities.
Common Vessel Applications & Locations:
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Engine room: Boiler feedwater systems, fuel oil service lines
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Cooling systems: Regulating seawater and freshwater flow
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Auxiliary machinery spaces: Steam lines and condensate return
Selection Considerations:
Materials:
3. Ball Valves
Description:
Ball valves use a rotary ball with a bore to control flow. A quarter-turn mechanism enables fast operation and tight shut-off.
Common Vessel Applications & Locations:
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Fuel systems: Quick shut-off valves in supply and return lines
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Lube oil systems: Emergency shut-off and isolation
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Deck pipelines: Fire main lines and utility systems
Selection Considerations:
Materials:
4. Butterfly Valves
Description:
Butterfly valves feature a rotating disc positioned in the center of the pipe. With a quarter-turn, the disc either blocks or permits flow.
Common Vessel Applications & Locations:
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Ballast systems: Large-diameter ballast water lines
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Cooling water systems: Seawater intake and discharge piping
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Firefighting systems: Fire main distribution lines on deck
Selection Considerations:
Materials:
5. Check Valves
Description:
Check valves are non-return valves that allow fluid to flow in one direction only, preventing backflow that can damage equipment or contaminate systems.
Common Vessel Applications & Locations:
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Bilge systems: Prevents seawater from flowing back into bilge tanks
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Cooling systems: Protects pumps and heat exchangers from backflow
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Fuel oil transfer systems: Ensures one-way flow into service tanks
Selection Considerations:
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Choose between swing check, lift check, or dual plate check depending on flow characteristics
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Ensure compatibility with system pressure and temperature
Materials:
6. Strainers (Auxiliary but Critical)
Description:
While not strictly a valve, strainers are often installed alongside valves onboard vessels. They filter out debris and particles, protecting downstream equipment.
Common Vessel Applications & Locations:
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Seawater systems: Installed upstream of seawater pumps to prevent clogging
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Cooling systems: Protects heat exchangers and condensers
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Fuel systems: Ensures clean fuel delivery to engines
Selection Considerations:
Materials:
Key Factors in Selecting Valves for Marine Applications
When choosing valves for vessel systems, engineers and procurement specialists should consider:
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Service Medium: Seawater, fuel, lube oil, steam, or air.
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Operating Pressure & Temperature: Ensure pressure ratings align with the system design.
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Corrosion Resistance: Materials such as stainless steel, duplex steel, or bronze are essential for marine environments.
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End Connections: Flanged, threaded, or socket weld depending on installation requirements.
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Certifications & Standards: Compliance with marine classification societies such as ABS, DNV, LR, or BV.
Conclusion
Valves are indispensable for safe and efficient ship operation, with different types serving unique purposes across vessel systems. Gate, globe, ball, butterfly, and check valves are among the most common onboard, found in critical areas such as the engine room, ballast tanks, fuel systems, cooling water circuits, and firefighting lines. Selecting the right valve involves careful consideration of service conditions, material compatibility, and regulatory requirements.
At Aik Soon Hardware, we supply a comprehensive range of marine and industrial valves from trusted manufacturers, ensuring reliability and compliance for critical applications. Whether for new shipbuilding projects or ongoing vessel maintenance, our expertise and extensive inventory make us a trusted partner for the marine industry.